Gardeners Hayes: Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Hayes publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to confirm our unwavering commitment to preventing modern slavery, human trafficking and forced labour in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that a clear anti-slavery stance is essential to protect workers and communities. This statement outlines our approach to the prevention of exploitation and the steps we take to uphold an anti-slavery policy across all business activities.

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of slavery or human trafficking. All employees, contractors and partners are expected to comply with our standards. Gardeners Hayes adopts a proactive approach, combining policy, supplier engagement and employee training to ensure that our modern slavery and human trafficking statement translates into tangible protections on the ground.

Our commitment applies to every part of the business: direct hires, contracted services and third-party suppliers. We enforce compliance through contractual clauses that require adherence to our modern slavery policy and relevant labour standards. Legal compliance is the baseline; ethical practice is our aim. We report transparently on progress and take remedial action where risks are identified.

Gardeners Hayes conducts regular supplier audits and due diligence to reduce the risk of exploitation in the supply chain. Supplier audits include desk-based reviews, on-site assessments and third-party verification. Our audit program prioritises high-risk sectors and geographies and is designed to detect indicators of forced labour, excessive working hours, child labour and unfair deductions.

Key elements of our supplier audit and assessment programme include:

• Risk-based screening to identify suppliers operating in vulnerable sectors.
• Periodic on-site inspections and documentary checks.
• Corrective action plans with monitored milestones and sanctions for non-compliance.
• Capacity building and supplier training to promote continuous improvement.

We view audits as part of a broader due diligence process rather than a one-off exercise. Our supplier code of conduct is enforced through contractual commitments and performance monitoring. When issues are found, we prioritise remediation, worker protection and, where necessary, disengagement from non-compliant partners.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Hayes maintains secure and confidential reporting channels to encourage the disclosure of suspected modern slavery or related abuses. We promote an open culture where concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. Reports are investigated promptly and independently, with appropriate protections for whistleblowers and affected workers.

Our lines of reporting and response include:

• Internal reporting mechanisms managed by our compliance team.
• Anonymous reporting options through independent whistleblowing channels.
• Escalation pathways to senior management and governance bodies for serious incidents.

We take all reports seriously and undertake thorough investigations. Findings inform corrective action, supplier re-engagement plans or termination of relationships when remediation is insufficient. Worker welfare and the elimination of exploitation are primary considerations in every decision.

Governance, Training and Continuous Improvement

Governance of our slavery and human trafficking statement is overseen by senior leadership with direct accountability for implementation and performance. We provide targeted training for procurement, HR and field teams to recognise risk factors and respond appropriately. Continuous improvement is achieved through lessons learned, stakeholder engagement and updates to our policies.

Our annual review process evaluates the effectiveness of measures, updates risk assessments and refines our modern slavery prevention strategy. The review includes audit outcomes, training completion rates and case investigations. Findings are reported to the board and used to shape future priorities.

In conclusion, this modern slavery statement reflects Gardeners Hayes' enduring pledge to combat slavery, uphold human dignity and ensure responsible supply chains. We maintain a zero-tolerance approach, robust supplier audits, accessible reporting channels and an annual review cycle to drive accountability and continuous progress.