Modern Slavery Statement for Gardening Services Elephant and Castle

Our pledge against modern slavery

Gardening Services Elephant and Castle publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to affirm our unwavering commitment to combatting slavery, forced labour and human trafficking across our operations. We operate a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of exploitation and expect the same standards from suppliers, subcontractors and partners engaged in grounds maintenance, landscaping and horticultural services in and around Elephant and Castle.

This anti-slavery and human trafficking statement sets out the practical steps we take to prevent, detect and respond to modern slavery risks. Our modern slavery policy and associated procedures require clear accountability at board and operational levels, and we maintain procurement checks and contractual clauses designed to reduce exposure to exploitative labour practices.

We require all suppliers to adhere to lawful employment practices and to demonstrate compliance with our standards. Contracts include clauses that prohibit forced labour, require transparent recruitment practices and permit audit access. Where recruitment agencies are used, we insist on full disclosure of fees, identity verification and fair terms to prevent debt bondage and related risks.

Supplier audits are central to our supplier management programme. We conduct on-site inspections, document reviews and worker interviews on a risk-based schedule. Audits examine payroll records, working hours, recruitment channels and living conditions when accommodation is provided. Where non-compliance is found, remedial action plans are implemented with clear timelines and responsibilities, and escalation can include suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Our due diligence is proportionate and targeted: higher risk suppliers and regions receive increased scrutiny while new and existing vendors must complete compliance questionnaires and provide supporting evidence. We encourage transparency and require remediation where shortcomings are identified; persistent or serious breaches of our anti-slavery and labour standards are dealt with decisively.

Key measures include:

• Risk-based supplier audits and corrective action tracking
• Contractual protections and clear anti-slavery clauses
• Worker verification, right-to-work checks and recruitment oversight
• Training for managers, supervisors and procurement teams

We maintain multiple confidential reporting channels so workers, contractors and third parties can raise concerns without fear of reprisal. Reports may be made anonymously and are investigated promptly by trained officers. Our whistleblowing procedures are designed to protect whistleblowers and to ensure that potential victims receive immediate safeguarding and access to specialist support where necessary.

An annual review underpins our continuous improvement process. Each year the leadership team reviews the effectiveness of the modern slavery measures, audit outcomes and incident handling. Findings inform updates to policy, additional training modules and targeted supplier engagement. This formal review cycle ensures the anti-slavery statement for Gardening Services Elephant and Castle remains current and effective.

We recognise that prevention requires awareness and capacity building. Training programmes are delivered across operational teams and supply chain partners to help identify signs of exploitation, understand safe reporting protocols and learn victim-centred response techniques. Records of training attendance and competency are retained and considered in supplier performance evaluations.

Summary of commitments

Gardening Services Elephant and Castle commits to a proactive, transparent and pragmatic approach to eliminating modern slavery. We will:

• Maintain a zero-tolerance approach to forced labour and human trafficking
• Conduct regular supplier audits and proportionate due diligence
• Provide secure, confidential reporting channels and protect whistleblowers
• Deliver ongoing training and support for staff and partners
• Carry out an annual review of policies and actions to drive continuous improvement

Our anti-slavery statement and Modern Slavery Policy are living documents: they will be reviewed at least once every year and updated as our operations, supply chain or external requirements change. We will continue to work with industry peers, enforcement agencies and specialist organisations to strengthen our responses and to support victims of exploitation.

Elephant and Castle gardening services accepts its responsibility to lead by example. We are committed to transparency, to rigorous supplier management and to decisive action where issues arise, ensuring our communities and workforce are protected from modern slavery in all its forms.