Gardener Paddington Modern Slavery Statement

Gardener Paddington confirms a zero-tolerance policy to any form of forced labour, human trafficking or exploitation in our operations and supply chain. This modern slavery statement outlines our approach to preventing modern slavery and forced labour risks across all activities, and the measures we maintain to protect workers, contractors and partners.

Our commitment and zero-tolerance policy

We operate a clear and unequivocal zero tolerance stance: any allegation or evidence of slavery, servitude or human trafficking will trigger immediate investigation, appropriate sanctions and remedial action. This policy applies to every part of our business where Gardener Paddington provides services, purchases goods or engages suppliers. All staff and suppliers are expected to adhere to these standards as part of our Gardener Paddington slavery prevention expectations.

Scope and responsibilities: Senior leadership is accountable for the implementation of this modern slavery statement and related policies. Line managers are responsible for day-to-day adherence, while procurement and compliance teams coordinate supplier due diligence, audits and corrective actions. We embed clear responsibilities into job descriptions, supplier contracts and procurement terms.

Supplier due diligence and audits

Our procurement approach to supplier checks includes risk-based screening, contractual clauses prohibiting forced labour, and ongoing monitoring. We undertake targeted supplier audits — both announced and unannounced — prioritising higher-risk categories. Audit processes assess working hours, wage payments, freedom of movement, recruitment fees and representative worker interviews. Remediation plans are required where non-compliance is identified, and persistent breaches can lead to contract termination.

Supply chain transparency and continuous improvement

We maintain a register of suppliers, mapping tier-one and key sub-suppliers, and we encourage transparency throughout the supply chain. Gardener Paddington supports capacity-building with suppliers through training, contractual commitments and collaboration to eliminate modern slavery and uplift labour standards. We use alternative sourcing and supplier development where appropriate to reduce reliance on suppliers that cannot meet our standards.

Our supplier audit process includes a combination of documentation reviews, worker interviews and site inspections. Findings are recorded, and corrective action plans include timelines and verification steps. This process is central to our supplier review and the broader Gardener Paddington anti-slavery framework.

We encourage internal and external reporting through secure, confidential channels. Reporting channels include internal managers, HR representatives and an independently managed whistleblowing mechanism. Reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly and confidentiality is preserved wherever possible. We have protections in place against retaliation for those who report concerns in good faith.

Reporting channels and worker voice: To empower workers, we emphasise accessible and anonymous reporting routes, worker interviews during audits, and clear escalation protocols. Our approach recognises the importance of worker voice in identifying risks of coercion, deceptive recruitment or withheld documentation. We also encourage suppliers to establish their own safe, anonymous reporting mechanisms.

Training, awareness and verification: All staff involved in procurement, HR and site supervision receive regular training on identifying modern slavery indicators and how to respond. We deliver scenario-based training and updates on legal and best-practice standards. Verification of training completion and effectiveness is incorporated into our audit cycle.

Our annual review and continuous improvement cycle ensures this modern slavery statement remains current and effective. Each year, Gardener Paddington conducts a formal review of policies, risk assessments, supplier audit outcomes and remediation effectiveness. Findings from the annual review inform policy updates, supplier prioritisation and training enhancements.

Remediation and corrective action: Where modern slavery risks or breaches are identified, we require immediate corrective measures, time-bound remediation plans and independent verification. If remediation is not feasible or effective, we will cease the commercial relationship. Our emphasis is on protecting victims, restoring their rights and preventing recurrence.

Declaration: This Gardener Paddington modern slavery statement is reviewed and approved at senior level and published to reflect our ongoing commitment to eradicate forced labour, exploitation and human trafficking. We are committed to transparency, supplier accountability and continuous improvement in our efforts to prevent modern slavery.