Gardeners Malden Rushett Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Gardeners Malden Rushett to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and to ensure that everyone who works for or with us is treated with dignity and respect.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Malden Rushett has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, human trafficking, debt bondage and exploitation. We are committed to conducting our business in a way that respects human rights and complies with all applicable legislation and guidance on modern slavery.

All employees, contractors and suppliers are expected to act in accordance with this commitment. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts or referral to the relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Operations and Supply Chains

Gardeners Malden Rushett operates in the gardening and related services sector. Our supply chains primarily involve the sourcing of plants, tools, equipment, materials and associated services. We recognise that certain parts of these supply chains may be more vulnerable to modern slavery risks, particularly where there are complex, multi-tiered international suppliers.

We work to identify, assess and mitigate these risks by engaging directly with our suppliers, seeking transparency and encouraging responsible practices throughout the supply chain.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. Gardeners Malden Rushett requires suppliers to confirm that they comply with relevant labour, employment and human rights laws, and that they do not tolerate any form of forced or exploitative labour in their own operations or those of their subcontractors.

Where appropriate, we carry out supplier assessments and audits to evaluate compliance with our standards. These may include requesting written confirmations of policies, reviewing documentation and, where proportionate and feasible, conducting site visits or independent checks. If a supplier fails to meet our expectations or refuses to cooperate with our due diligence processes, we reserve the right to review, suspend or terminate the relationship.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that effective prevention of modern slavery relies on awareness and vigilance. Gardeners Malden Rushett aims to provide relevant training and guidance to employees involved in recruitment, procurement and supplier management so they can identify potential indicators of modern slavery and respond appropriately.

Our goal is to foster a culture in which ethical conduct and respect for human rights are integral to day-to-day decision-making, and in which concerns are raised without fear of negative consequences.

Reporting Channels and Escalation

Gardeners Malden Rushett encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices connected to our business or supply chains to report them as soon as possible. Concerns may be raised through internal management channels, in writing to senior management, or via any established whistleblowing or grievance mechanisms operated by the company.

All concerns will be taken seriously and handled sensitively. We are committed to investigating reported issues promptly and fairly, and to taking appropriate remedial action where necessary. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement. Gardeners Malden Rushett will review this Modern Slavery Statement and the effectiveness of our related policies, procedures and controls on an annual basis, or more frequently if needed in response to changes in legislation, guidance or identified risks.

As part of our annual review, we will consider feedback from employees and suppliers, the outcomes of any audits or investigations, and any emerging best practice. Where weaknesses are identified, we will take steps to strengthen our approach and improve our preventative measures.

This statement reflects the position and commitment of Gardeners Malden Rushett for the current financial year and has been approved by the company’s leadership for publication.