Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Poplar Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Poplar has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our own operations and our supply chains. Gardeners Poplar is committed to conducting business ethically, with integrity, and in full compliance with applicable laws and internationally recognised human rights standards.

Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights, encompassing slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, debt bondage, child labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Poplar recognises that these abuses can occur in any country and sector, including horticulture, landscaping, and related supply chains. We are determined to identify and reduce these risks and to act swiftly and decisively where concerns arise.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Poplar has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. This means we will not knowingly engage with, support, or benefit from any form of forced, bonded, or trafficked labour, or any labour practice that is abusive, coercive, or exploitative. Our zero-tolerance stance applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, consultants, and suppliers, regardless of location or role.

All workers must be engaged on fair and transparent terms, with clear information about their rights, responsibilities, pay, and working conditions. Work must always be voluntary, and workers must be free to leave their employment after reasonable notice. We do not tolerate the retention of identity documents, the charging of recruitment fees, or any practice that restricts freedom of movement or creates undue dependency.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Gardeners Poplar expects all suppliers and business partners to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. We communicate our expectations through our supplier requirements and embed modern slavery and human rights criteria into our procurement and onboarding processes.

We carry out proportionate risk-based due diligence on suppliers, taking into account factors such as country of operation, type of work, use of temporary or migrant labour, and past performance. Where heightened risk is identified, we may require additional assurances, documentation, or corrective action plans. We reserve the right to conduct audits or site visits, either directly or through trusted third parties, to verify compliance with our standards.

If a supplier fails to meet our expectations or refuses to cooperate with reasonable due diligence or audit requests, Gardeners Poplar will seek to work with them to improve practices within a defined timescale. Where improvement is not possible or not forthcoming, we will review the relationship and may suspend or terminate the business arrangement.

Reporting Channels and Protection from Retaliation

Gardeners Poplar encourages anyone who becomes aware of concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices to raise them without delay. Concerns can be reported through internal management channels, through line managers, or via established whistleblowing routes within the organisation. We aim to provide safe, accessible, and confidential avenues for workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to speak up.

We do not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who report concerns in good faith or who participate in an investigation. All reports are taken seriously and, where appropriate, investigated promptly and impartially. If an issue is identified, we will take appropriate remedial action, which may include supporting affected individuals, working with suppliers to rectify problems, or escalating matters to relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Poplar is committed to building internal awareness and capability to identify and address modern slavery risks. Relevant staff, especially those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management, receive guidance on recognising risk indicators and following due diligence processes. We promote an open culture where ethical concerns can be raised and discussed.

We continually review and improve our policies, procedures, and practices in light of new legislation, guidance, industry best practice, and lessons learned from our own experience. Our intention is to strengthen transparency, accountability, and oversight across our operations and supply chains.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and reflective of Gardeners Poplar’s evolving risk profile and control measures. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, including supplier audits, reporting mechanisms, and remedial steps taken in response to any identified issues.

The updated statement is submitted for senior management approval and is made available to stakeholders to promote transparency and accountability. By maintaining a regular review cycle, Gardeners Poplar reinforces its ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and promoting respect for human rights in every aspect of its business.