Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Ratcliff

Gardeners Ratcliff is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable laws on modern slavery and human trafficking. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent, identify, and address risks of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers, and business partners working with or on behalf of Gardeners Ratcliff.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Ratcliff has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. We do not accept any practice that exploits individuals or undermines their fundamental human rights. This commitment is central to how we select and manage our suppliers, how we engage our workforce, and how we make commercial decisions.

All employees, managers, and directors are required to uphold this policy and to act immediately if they suspect any breach. We expect the same standards from all suppliers and business partners and reserve the right to terminate relationships with any party that is found to be involved in modern slavery or that fails to take adequate corrective action.

Supply Chain Standards and Due Diligence

Our supply chains include providers of goods, materials, services, logistics, and labour. We recognise that modern slavery risks can exist at any tier of a supply chain and we are committed to ongoing assessment and improvement. Gardeners Ratcliff requires that suppliers comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights legislation and maintain safe and fair working conditions.

As part of our due diligence processes, prospective suppliers are assessed on their labour standards, policies, and approach to human rights. We seek evidence that they have appropriate governance, training, and monitoring in place to prevent modern slavery and that they cascade similar expectations to their own suppliers and subcontractors.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To reinforce our zero-tolerance stance, Gardeners Ratcliff undertakes risk-based audits of suppliers and service providers. These audits may be conducted by our internal team or by competent third parties, and can include site visits, document reviews, and confidential worker interviews where appropriate. We prioritise audits for suppliers operating in sectors or regions that are considered higher risk for labour exploitation.

Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we work with the supplier to agree a corrective action plan with clear timelines. Failure to implement agreed improvements, or evidence of serious or deliberate abuse, may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Ratcliff encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report concerns or suspicions about modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, via line managers, senior management, or designated compliance contacts. Individuals are encouraged to share as much factual detail as possible to support effective investigation and resolution.

We are committed to protecting anyone who raises concerns in good faith. Retaliation, victimisation, or intimidation against individuals who report potential violations of this Statement or related policies is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action where applicable.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibility

Gardeners Ratcliff provides targeted training to relevant employees, including those involved in procurement, supplier management, and human resources, to help them identify and respond to potential indicators of modern slavery. Awareness materials are used to reinforce our expectations and the importance of vigilance across the organisation.

Overall responsibility for this Statement and for overseeing our anti-slavery strategy rests with the senior leadership of Gardeners Ratcliff. They are supported by operational managers who are responsible for ensuring that day-to-day practices align with this Statement and our zero-tolerance policy.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to evaluate the effectiveness of our approach and to reflect changes in law, guidance, and best practice. The review considers audit findings, feedback from stakeholders, incident reports, and developments in our supply chains.

Following each review, Gardeners Ratcliff may update its risk assessments, strengthen due diligence procedures, and enhance training and monitoring activities. Our objective is continuous improvement in the identification, prevention, and remediation of modern slavery risks, and to promote a culture of respect, transparency, and accountability throughout our business and supply chains.