Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Blackwall

Gardeners Blackwall is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all our operations and supply chains. This statement sets out our policies and actions to identify, manage and mitigate risks related to forced labour, servitude and human trafficking. We operate a zero-tolerance approach and expect the same high standards from every contractor and partner associated with the Gardeners of Blackwall family.

Scope and commitment: This Modern Slavery Statement applies to all employees, sub-contractors and suppliers engaged by Gardeners-Blackwall. We strongly endorse ethical employment practices and require transparent labour sourcing. Our leadership team has endorsed a clear compliance framework and has allocated resources to ensure implementation across sites and projects, reflecting the core values of Blackwall gardeners in protecting worker rights.

Policies and governance

Our board and senior management maintain oversight of anti-slavery measures. We have embedded a zero-tolerance policy into our code of conduct and procurement procedures. All staff receive awareness training on indicators of forced labour and the proper response. Gardeners Blackwall monitors compliance through documented processes and ensures disciplinary action for breaches, up to and including termination of relationships with offenders.

Supplier due diligence and audits are integral to our approach. We perform risk-based supplier reviews, which include:

• Pre-engagement checks to verify worker documentation and recruitment practices;
• Contract clauses requiring adherence to anti-slavery standards;
• Scheduled and unannounced supplier audits and on-site inspections;
• Corrective action plans where gaps are identified and follow-up verification.

Supplier audits and risk management

We operate a formal supplier audit programme tailored to the risk profile of each vendor. High-risk suppliers, particularly those providing labour-intensive services or operating in high-risk jurisdictions, are audited annually by internal or third-party auditors. Audits assess recruitment fees, employment contracts, pay practices and living conditions. Any non-compliance triggers immediate remediation steps and re-evaluation of the commercial relationship by Gardeners Blackwall procurement.

Reporting channels and remediation: Gardeners Blackwall maintains secure and confidential reporting channels for employees, contractors and third parties to raise concerns without fear of retaliation. Reports can be made anonymously through our internal whistleblowing processes or escalated to management. All allegations are investigated promptly and impartially. Where victims are identified we ensure access to support services and remedial action, and pursue appropriate legal steps against perpetrators.

We publish this statement to demonstrate transparency and accountability. Our internal controls include records of recruitment checks, payroll audits and supplier certifications. We use a combination of training, contractual controls and supplier engagement to reduce the risk of modern slavery across the gardeners of Blackwall network. Where necessary, we will terminate contracts with suppliers who fail to meet required standards.

Continuous improvement and annual review: Gardeners Blackwall commits to an annual review of this statement and the effectiveness of our measures. Each year we will assess the impact of our policies, update training materials, refine risk assessment tools and amend supplier audit frequencies based on findings. The review process involves cross-functional input from procurement, HR and legal teams to ensure an integrated response to modern slavery risks.

Responsibilities and communication: All managers are responsible for enforcing this policy and ensuring employees and suppliers understand their obligations. We communicate expectations through contractual terms, training sessions and routine supplier meetings. By strengthening due diligence, expanding audits and supporting victims, we aim to eliminate modern slavery risks within the Gardeners Blackwall supply chain.

Approval: This statement has been approved and endorsed by senior leadership as part of our corporate governance. Gardeners Blackwall will continue to monitor legal developments and best practice to ensure that our anti-slavery approach remains robust and effective. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to eradicating forced labour and protecting the dignity of all workers in the Gardeners of Blackwall community.