Modern Slavery Statement — Gardeners Ickenham
Gardeners Ickenham is committed to preventing all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. This statement sets out our zero-tolerance approach and the actions we take to identify, prevent and remediate potential instances of exploitation. As a local provider of landscaping and horticultural services, the Gardeners of Ickenham acknowledge our responsibility to maintain ethical standards across every contract we manage.Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards slavery, forced labour and human trafficking. All employees, contractors and partners must adhere to our code of conduct. We expect the same high standards from third parties and suppliers we engage with. Any breach of this policy will result in immediate investigation and proportionate corrective action, which may include termination of the contractual relationship.
We recognise that Ickenham gardeners and Gardeners in Ickenham work within complex supply chains. To mitigate risk we conduct due diligence on procurement, recruitment and subcontracting. Key controls include pre-engagement checks, identity and right-to-work verification, and clear contractual clauses prohibiting modern slavery. Our procurement practices aim to ensure transparency and accountability from the moment a supplier is onboarded.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We provide multiple confidential reporting channels for staff, contractors and third parties to raise concerns. These channels include an anonymous reporting mechanism, escalation to senior management and internal investigations led by our compliance team. Reports are treated seriously, with protection from retaliation. We encourage anyone who suspects exploitation or unethical conduct to report immediately so we can act swiftly.
Training and awareness form a central part of our prevention strategy. All Ickenham gardeners, procurement staff and supervisors receive regular training on recognising signs of modern slavery, safe recruitment practices and secure record-keeping. This training reinforces responsibilities for monitoring at site level and for escalating risks identified in day-to-day work across the borough.
Supplier audits are integral to our compliance framework. We operate a risk-based audit programme that includes document reviews, supplier site visits and third-party verification where necessary. Audit outcomes are tracked, and suppliers are required to implement remedial plans where issues are found. Strong contractual terms and periodic reassessments are used to maintain continuous improvement across the supply chain.
Remediation and Continuous Improvement Our approach to remediation focuses on the welfare of affected individuals and on preventing reoccurrence. Where modern slavery risks are confirmed or suspected, we take immediate steps to secure wellbeing and legal protections for victims, while working with relevant authorities and specialists to ensure appropriate support and remediation is provided.
Governance and annual review — Gardeners Ickenham maintains governance oversight through senior management and a designated compliance lead responsible for slavery risk management. We commit to an annual review of this statement and our policies, including an assessment of audit results, training effectiveness, incident responses and supplier performance. The annual review drives updates to our mitigation strategies and ensures alignment with evolving legal and sector expectations.
In closing, Gardeners Ickenham and the wider team of Ickenham gardeners reaffirm our commitment to upholding human rights and tackling modern slavery. We will continue to strengthen supplier audits, maintain clear reporting channels and perform a comprehensive annual review to ensure our practices remain robust and effective. Together with our partners and contractors, we will reduce risks and take decisive action where exploitation is identified.
