Modern Slavery Statement — Gardeners Battersea Commitment

Gardeners Battersea is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms across our operations and supply chains. We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy against forced labour, bonded labour, child labour and any form of exploitation. This modern slavery statement sets out our approach, the responsibilities of the gardeners of Battersea network, and the measures we take to identify, prevent and remedy risks. We believe every worker should be treated with dignity and respect, and our commitment is embedded in our core values and procurement practices. We will not tolerate any instance of exploitation in the services we deliver.

Policy and Principles

Our anti-slavery and anti-trafficking policy applies to Gardeners of Battersea, contractors, suppliers and partners. It outlines clear expectations for behaviour and compliance. Key elements include:

• Zero-tolerance policy: Any evidence of modern slavery will result in immediate action, including termination of contracts and referral to authorities where appropriate.
• Supplier audits: We evaluate suppliers through screening, regular audits and contractual clauses that require compliance with anti-slavery standards.
• Training and awareness: Staff and subcontractors receive training to recognise and report potential signs of exploitation.

Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

Our due diligence programme for Battersea gardeners focuses on risk-based supplier audits and ongoing monitoring. We conduct pre-engagement checks, request documentation about labour practices, and include anti-slavery clauses in contracts. Where a supplier is identified as high risk, we carry out on-site visits and third-party assessments. Audit findings are recorded, and suppliers must provide corrective action plans. Persistent non-compliance leads to termination of supply arrangements. We work to build capacity with smaller suppliers to help them meet our standards rather than immediately resorting to exclusion.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing. We maintain multiple safe reporting channels for anyone — including employees, subcontractors and members of the public — to raise concerns about suspected modern slavery in our operations or supply chain. Reports can be made through internal managers, designated compliance officers, or anonymous reporting mechanisms. All reports are treated confidentially and investigated promptly. Our process ensures that individuals reporting in good faith will face no retaliation. We encourage early reporting so that risks can be managed and victims protected.

Remediation and Support

When an allegation is substantiated, our remediation protocol prioritises the safety and wellbeing of affected individuals. Actions may include:

• Immediate protective measures for victims;
• Cooperation with relevant authorities and support organisations;
• Corrective actions for suppliers, including contract termination where warranted.

Annual Review, Training and Continuous Improvement

We review this modern slavery statement annually to assess effectiveness and to update our processes in line with evolving best practice. The annual review covers supplier audit results, training completion statistics, any incidents reported and corrective actions taken. Training is refreshed regularly for all staff and contractors, and we measure outcomes through audit performance and employee awareness surveys. As part of continuous improvement, we set measurable targets each year and report progress to our governance body. Our goal is to reduce risk across all gardener supply chains in Battersea and beyond.

Governance and Responsibility Ultimate responsibility for the implementation of this statement rests with our senior management and compliance team. Line managers and procurement staff are accountable for executing supplier due diligence and ensuring contractual compliance. Gardeners in Battersea are expected to act in accordance with this policy and to report concerns without delay. This statement will be communicated to all employees and suppliers, and it will be made publicly available as part of our transparency commitments. We remain resolute in our mission to prevent modern slavery and to promote ethical labour practices across every garden we tend.