Modern Slavery Statement — Gardening Services Shortlands

Gardening Services Shortlands is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach to preventing forced labour, human trafficking and other forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chain. We adopt a zero-tolerance policy to modern slavery and expect the same high standard from all our partners and suppliers.

Our scope covers direct employees, subcontractors and suppliers engaged in landscaping, horticulture, site clearance and maintenance services. The Shortlands gardening services modern slavery policy applies across all regions where we operate. We recognise that vulnerability may be present in low-skilled labour pools and seasonal workforces, and we take proactive steps to mitigate those risks.

To make this modern slavery statement for Gardening Services Shortlands meaningful, we embed due diligence into procurement and operational practices. Our policies require lawful and transparent recruitment, fair pay and working hours, and safe, secure accommodation where provided. We use risk-based assessments to focus resources on higher-risk areas and maintain records to evidence our actions and decisions.

Zero-Tolerance Policy and Governance

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards any form of coercion or exploitation. Any evidence of forced labour, debt bondage, or human trafficking will result in immediate investigation and appropriate action, which may include termination of contracts and referral to authorities. Our board and senior management take responsibility for policy oversight and are committed to continuous improvement.

Supplier audits and due diligence

We carry out rigorous supplier audits as part of our supplier assurance programme. Audits combine documentation checks, on-site inspections and worker interviews to verify compliance with our standards. We prioritise audits for suppliers in higher-risk categories and those supplying labour-intensive services.

Key elements of our supplier audit process include:

• Pre-engagement screening – verification of legal entity status, licences and recruitment practices.
• Contractual commitments – clauses that require suppliers to comply with anti-slavery standards and permit audit access.
• On-site inspections – checks of payroll, working hours, accommodation and health & safety measures.
• Worker interviews – confidential conversations to confirm freedom of movement and informed consent to employment.
• Corrective action plans – timebound remediation where non-compliances are found, monitored until closed.

Reporting channels and protection

We provide clear reporting channels for workers, contractors and third parties to raise concerns about suspected modern slavery. These channels are designed to be accessible and confidential. Reports can be made without fear of retaliation; we protect whistleblowers and take every allegation seriously. Investigations are conducted promptly and impartially, with remedial steps taken when needed.

Our reporting framework includes internal grievance mechanisms, escalation to senior management and, where necessary, referral to statutory agencies. We also collaborate with industry bodies and other businesses in the Shortlands area to strengthen collective responses to modern slavery risks.

Annual review, training and continuous improvement

Each year we undertake a formal review of this modern slavery statement and our operational practices. The annual review evaluates the effectiveness of supplier audits, training outcomes and remediation records. We require targeted training for procurement teams, site managers and supervisors so they can identify indicators of exploitation and respond effectively. The review findings inform policy updates and resource allocation.

In summary, Gardening Services Shortlands declares a firm commitment to combat modern slavery. We will continue to strengthen our policies, perform robust supplier audits, maintain secure reporting channels and conduct an annual review to ensure lasting, positive change across our gardening services and supply chains. This modern slavery statement reflects our ongoing promise to uphold human dignity and lawful employment in every part of our business.