Gardeners Fortis Green Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Fortis Green has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to safeguard workers.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Fortis Green has a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and exploitation. This commitment applies to every aspect of our business, including our gardening and landscaping activities, procurement of materials and equipment, and any contracted services that support our operations.

We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners. Any involvement in or connection to modern slavery is wholly unacceptable and may result in the termination of commercial relationships, as well as reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Supply Chains

Our supply chains include providers of plants, soils, aggregates, tools, machinery, uniforms, and support services. We recognise that certain sectors and geographies carry higher risks of labour exploitation, and we seek to identify and prioritise those areas for enhanced due diligence. We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values regarding human rights and ethical labour practices.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We require suppliers to confirm that they comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, and that they maintain safe and fair working conditions. As part of our ongoing supplier management, we:

Conduct risk-based assessments of suppliers, focusing on the nature of goods or services supplied and the location of operations. Request information from suppliers on their own modern slavery policies, procedures, and training. Reserve the right to conduct audits, site visits, or request independent verification of compliance with labour standards.

Where a higher risk is identified, we may conduct more detailed checks and require suppliers to demonstrate tangible measures to prevent forced labour, debt bondage, and other forms of exploitation. Failure to meet our standards may result in corrective action plans, suspension, or discontinuation of business relationships.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Fortis Green encourages a culture of openness so that concerns about modern slavery can be raised without fear. Any worker, supplier, or third party who has concerns about possible modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business is encouraged to report their concerns to a manager or senior member of the company.

Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We are committed to ensuring that no person who raises a concern in good faith is subjected to retaliation or disadvantage. Where appropriate, concerns may be escalated to external authorities or specialist organisations.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our team. Relevant staff receive guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation, particularly in relation to agency labour, subcontractors, and suppliers. We promote understanding of our zero-tolerance policy and the importance of reporting concerns promptly.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Fortis Green recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to regularly reviewing and improving our approach as legislation, best practice, and risk profiles evolve. This statement and the underlying policies and procedures are reviewed annually by our management team to evaluate effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement.

As part of the annual review, we consider supplier performance, audit findings, reported concerns, and any changes in our operations or supply chains. We use this information to strengthen our controls, refine our risk assessments, and reinforce our commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Fortis Green and reflects our ongoing dedication to protecting the rights and dignity of all workers connected to our business.