Modern Slavery Statement — Gardeners East Ham
Gardeners East Ham publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to set out our commitment to preventing forced labour, human trafficking and other forms of modern slavery across our organisation and supply network. We operate a zero-tolerance policy to any acts that contravene human rights or exploit workers. As a local contractor, Gardeners of East Ham recognises the responsibility to act with integrity and to ensure high standards in recruitment, pay and working conditions.
Our Commitment
As East Ham gardeners and a community employer, we commit to continuous improvement in our policies and practices. We require all employees, subcontractors and partners to follow our code of conduct which includes explicit prohibitions against forced labour and exploitative practices. We will ensure staff know their rights and have access to safe working conditions, fair pay and freedom of movement. This is central to the way gardeners in East Ham deliver services.
Our zero-tolerance policy is clear: any evidence of modern slavery, whether in our workforce or within suppliers, triggers immediate investigation and corrective action. We will terminate contracts where breaches occur and report criminal matters to the appropriate authorities. We also emphasise remedial support where victims are identified, and we will work collaboratively to mitigate harm and prevent recurrence.
Supply Chain Transparency and Supplier Audits
Gardeners East Ham maintains visibility across our supply chain and recognises the importance of supplier diligence. We map key suppliers, labour providers and subcontractors to assess risk factors and prioritise audits where vulnerabilities exist. Our procurement processes include contractual clauses that require adherence to our anti-slavery standards and permit audit and inspection rights.
We operate a structured supplier audit programme. Audits include on-site visits, documentation checks and worker interviews to verify compliance. Key audit elements include:
- verification of identity and right to work;
- payroll and wage records review;
- working hours and health and safety checks;
- third-party labour provider screening.
We provide training to procurement staff and supervisors to identify indicators of exploitation. Internal controls and records are maintained and periodically reviewed. Our recruitment practices emphasise ethical sourcing and do not permit fees charged to workers by agencies; this reflects our commitment as gardeners of East Ham to holistic, ethical labour management.
Gardeners East Ham has established accessible reporting channels to enable workers, contractors and third parties to raise concerns. Reports can be made anonymously through secure internal channels and are treated confidentially. We encourage the use of our whistleblowing pathway and guarantee non-retaliation for those who report suspected modern slavery. Reporting channels are actively communicated to staff and partners and are an essential part of our accountability framework.
We review and monitor compliance through regular management oversight and key performance indicators. Our approach includes periodic internal reviews, follow-up audits and documented corrective actions. Records of training, audit results and incident investigations are retained and used to inform risk mitigation and operational improvements. Transparency and measurable outcomes are central to ensuring the long-term effectiveness of our anti-slavery measures.
Annual Review and Ongoing Commitments
Gardeners in East Ham will publish an annual review of this statement and the effectiveness of our policies and procedures. The review will assess supplier audit outcomes, incident reports, training completion rates and improvements made. We will update controls, escalate where necessary and set targets for the coming year. By combining prevention, detection and remedy, the gardeners of East Ham remain dedicated to eradicating modern slavery from our operations and supply chain.
