Gardeners Freezywater Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Freezywater to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect and uphold human rights and to act with integrity in all our business dealings.

Gardeners Freezywater operates in the gardening and grounds maintenance sector, working with a range of suppliers and subcontractors for products, materials and services. We are committed to identifying, preventing and addressing any risk of forced labour, servitude, human trafficking or exploitation connected to our business activities.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We have a clear zero-tolerance policy to all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to our own operations, our employees, and all parties that provide goods or services to Gardeners Freezywater.

No form of forced, bonded or compulsory labour is acceptable. We do not tolerate child labour that is in breach of local laws, nor any practice that restricts freedom of movement or the ability of workers to leave their employment. Any supplier or partner found to be involved in such practices will face decisive action, which may include immediate termination of contracts.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We expect all suppliers, subcontractors and service providers to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our procurement process, we assess the ethical standards of new and existing suppliers, focusing particularly on those operating in sectors or regions with higher risk of labour exploitation.

Our supplier terms and conditions require compliance with applicable labour, human rights and employment laws. We communicate our zero-tolerance stance and make clear that continued business with Gardeners Freezywater is contingent upon adherence to these standards. Where appropriate, we seek assurances and declarations from suppliers regarding their own policies and practices on modern slavery.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

We undertake proportionate audits and reviews of selected suppliers to monitor compliance with our expectations on labour practices. These audits may include reviewing documentation, requesting evidence of employment practices, and making enquiries about the use of subcontractors or labour agencies.

Where areas of concern are identified, we engage with suppliers to understand the issues and agree corrective actions with clear timeframes. Failure to implement satisfactory improvements can lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship. Our aim is both to protect workers and to encourage continuous improvement across our supply chain.

Employee Awareness and Reporting Channels

We promote a culture where concerns about unethical or illegal behaviour, including any suspicion of modern slavery, can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any concerns through internal reporting channels or directly to senior management.

All reports are taken seriously and handled sensitively. We investigate allegations promptly and fairly, ensuring that any confirmed instances of exploitation are addressed with appropriate corrective and disciplinary action. We also remind our teams of the signs of potential labour exploitation and the importance of remaining vigilant.

Governance, Accountability and Annual Review

Overall responsibility for our modern slavery strategy and compliance rests with the senior management of Gardeners Freezywater. They ensure that this statement and our underlying procedures are implemented effectively and reviewed on a regular basis.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, business operations or identified risks. The annual review considers the effectiveness of our actions, feedback from audits, and any reported concerns, and it informs updates to our policies, training and supplier engagement.

Gardeners Freezywater is committed to continual improvement in our approach to identifying, preventing and mitigating the risk of modern slavery. By working collaboratively with our employees, suppliers and stakeholders, we aim to ensure that the services we provide are delivered with respect for the rights and dignity of all people involved.