Modern Slavery Statement for Gardener Barking

Gardener Barking is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct and corporate responsibility. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines our approach to preventing forced labour, human trafficking and other forms of exploitation across our operations and supply chain. We confirm a zero-tolerance stance towards modern slavery in any part of our business and by any person acting on our behalf.

Our anti-slavery commitment applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers and partners. As part of our governance, the Board and senior management oversee implementation of the modern slavery policy, ensuring adequate resources and accountability. This statement serves as our public declaration of intent and the actions we take to mitigate the risk of slavery and human trafficking.

To achieve transparency, we publish details of our approach, update our processes regularly and require all relevant stakeholders to comply with the standards set out in this anti-slavery statement. We use different variations of our core commitment—Modern Slavery Statement, modern slavery declaration and slavery and human trafficking statement—so that expectations are clear across all communications.

Zero-Tolerance Policy and Organizational Responsibilities

Gardener Barking maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for forced labour, debt bondage, child labour and coercion. Managers are required to uphold these principles and to act immediately if an issue is suspected. Breaches of this policy will result in disciplinary action, including termination of contracts, and any required legal measures. We will not tolerate retaliation against anyone reporting concerns in good faith.

Responsibilities are defined at every level: the executive leadership set strategy, the compliance team oversees risk management and each site manager is accountable for day-to-day adherence. We provide training to staff on identifying indicators of modern slavery and ensure procurement teams consider human rights risks during supplier selection and management.

Our procurement code includes specific clauses requiring suppliers to certify compliance with labour standards. Where necessary, contractual remedies are available to address non-compliance, up to and including contract termination. We expect suppliers to support our declared standards and to take active measures to prevent exploitation within their own supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Risk-Based Supply Chain Assurance

We operate a risk-based supplier assurance programme comprised of documented assessments, desktop reviews and on-site audits. The goals are to detect risks, verify controls and help suppliers remediate any gaps. Audit activities are prioritized by risk factors such as geography, sector and the nature of labour used.

Key audit elements include:

• Documentation checks — verification of payroll, timesheets and worker contracts;
• On-site inspections — worker interviews and workplace observations;
• Management interviews — review of policies and grievance mechanisms;
• Corrective action plans — defined timelines and follow-up audits.

Where audits reveal serious breaches, we will require urgent corrective action and consider suspension or termination of supply relationships if necessary. We also offer capacity building to suppliers that demonstrate willingness to improve.

Reporting Channels, Confidentiality and Whistleblowing

Gardener Barking provides multiple confidential reporting channels to enable employees, contractors and third parties to raise concerns about suspected slavery or trafficking. Reports may be raised anonymously where permitted by law. We treat all reports seriously, investigate promptly and ensure protections against retaliation.

Available reporting mechanisms include:

• Internal escalation to managers or HR for immediate concerns;
• Compliance reporting through designated channels for confidential submission;
• External reporting options where local law or circumstances warrant independent review.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement: We conduct an annual review of this modern slavery policy and our overall programme to ensure ongoing effectiveness. The review covers risk assessments, audit outcomes, training completion rates and remediation progress. Lessons learned are integrated into policy updates, and senior leadership approves any significant changes.

In conclusion, Gardener Barking reiterates its unwavering commitment to preventing modern slavery. We will continue to monitor, measure and improve our practices, working with suppliers and stakeholders to uphold human rights across our operations and supply chain.