Gardeners Poplar Modern Slavery Statement
Gardeners Poplar affirms its commitment to a clear and enforceable Modern Slavery Statement. This statement on modern slavery explains the actions we take to prevent any form of forced labour, human trafficking or exploitation across our operations and supply chains. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and require all colleagues, contractors and partners to adhere to our standards. The anti-slavery statement is an integral part of our corporate responsibility and reflects our values as a responsible employer and buyer.
Our modern slavery policy sets out expectations for behaviour and controls. It applies to all employees, seasonal workers and third-party suppliers engaged by Gardeners Poplar. The policy is communicated during onboarding, in supplier contracts and through ongoing training. We regard any breach as a serious matter that may lead to contract termination and legal action where appropriate, consistent with our strong anti-slavery stance.
We conduct risk assessments to identify areas at higher risk of exploitation, particularly where labour is outsourced or temporary workers are used. The statement on modern slavery summarises how we analyse geographic, sectoral and supplier-level risks. Our compliance team collaborates with procurement to embed expectations into tendering, purchase orders and supplier agreements. Where risks are identified, we implement targeted measures to mitigate and monitor improvement.
Supplier Audits and Due Diligence
Gardeners Poplar operates a risk-based supplier audit programme to verify adherence to our modern slavery policy and anti-slavery practices. Audits combine documentation review, interviews and on-site visits when feasible. We rely on a mix of third-party auditors and internal specialists to assess labour conditions, recruitment practices and wage compliance.
Our supplier audits are scheduled according to risk level and business criticality. High-risk suppliers receive more frequent scrutiny. Audit findings result in corrective action plans with defined timelines and follow-up checks. Persistent non-compliance triggers contractual remedies, including suspension or termination, emphasising our commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on slavery and forced labour.
Key elements of our supplier oversight include:
- Pre-contract screening and ongoing monitoring
- Periodic documentation and payroll checks
- Worker interviews and grievance channel verification
- Mandatory corrective action plans for non-conformances
Reporting Channels and Confidentiality
Gardeners Poplar maintains multiple reporting channels for concerns related to modern slavery, including internal hotlines and secure, anonymous mechanisms. We treat reports seriously, ensure confidentiality where requested and investigate all allegations promptly. Our reporting channels are available to employees, contractors and supply chain workers, and we protect whistleblowers from retaliation to encourage transparency.
When an allegation is confirmed, we take proportionate remediation steps focused on the welfare of affected individuals and the correction of systemic issues. Remediation may include payment of outstanding wages, assistance to access support services, and reparation measures as appropriate. We cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities when required and ensure that our responses are victim-centred and legally compliant.
Annual Review and Ongoing Governance: Our modern slavery compliance programme is reviewed annually by senior management and the board. The annual review evaluates policy effectiveness, audit outcomes, supplier performance and training completion rates. Findings inform updates to our anti-slavery policy and guide resource allocation for the coming year. Gardeners Poplar publishes this anti-slavery statement and reports progress transparently, demonstrating continuous commitment to eradicating modern slavery across our operations and supply chains.
