Modern Slavery Statement — Gardeners West Ham
Gardeners West Ham declare a clear and public commitment to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our operations. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners of West Ham and our teams to identify, prevent and respond to any form of forced labour, exploitation or coercion. We publish this statement as part of a continuous programme to strengthen ethical labour standards across West Ham gardeners, contractors and suppliers.
Our commitment applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of West Ham Gardeners, including permanent staff, temporary workers, subcontractors and supply chain partners. We operate a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery and expect the same standard from our suppliers and partners. This policy is embedded in our procurement, employment and contractor management practices.
The zero-tolerance policy of Gardeners West Ham means that any credible allegation of modern slavery will prompt immediate investigation and decisive action. Allegations may result in contract termination, remediation for affected workers and referral to authorities where appropriate. We emphasise transparent processes and fairness: investigations are conducted confidentially and in accordance with legal obligations and best practice.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
Gardeners West Ham undertake risk-based due diligence on suppliers and contractors. Our procurement teams screen prospective partners for labour and human-rights risks before onboarding and periodically thereafter. We require contractual assurances that suppliers comply with labour laws and refrain from the use of forced labour, bonded labour or exploitative recruitment.
To verify compliance we perform supplier audits and site visits at regular intervals. Audit activities include document reviews, worker interviews and site inspections to check working hours, pay practices, recruitment fees and living conditions where applicable. Where non-compliance is found we implement corrective action plans and monitor progress until standards are met.
Supplier audits examine key areas such as:
- Proof of lawful employment and right to work
- Payment of wages and benefits in line with legal standards
- Recruitment practices, including use of agencies and fees
- Working hours, rest breaks and safe working conditions
Reporting Channels and Worker Protection
Gardeners West Ham maintain accessible reporting channels so workers, subcontractors and third parties can raise concerns. Reports are welcomed through multiple secure and confidential routes, which may include internal HR contacts, a designated compliance officer and an anonymous reporting mechanism. We actively promote awareness of these channels within our workforce and supply chain.
Reports received are treated seriously and handled with urgency. We offer protection against retaliation for anyone who reports in good faith. Our response process includes risk assessment, immediate protective measures where necessary, investigation and remediation. We also encourage open communication and worker engagement as preventative measures.
Gardeners West Ham cooperate fully with law enforcement and regulatory bodies and will support victims through remedial actions, which may include compensation, alternative employment and access to social support services, where appropriate.
Training and awareness are central to our prevention strategy. Staff involved in procurement, site supervision and human resources receive regular training on modern slavery indicators, ethical recruitment and how to escalate concerns. We expect suppliers to provide similar education to their workforce to ensure consistent standards across the supply chain.
Monitoring, record keeping and continuous improvement are integral to our approach. We maintain records of due diligence checks, audits, corrective actions and reported incidents. These records inform risk assessments and help us target resources where they are most needed. Gardeners of West Ham use this evidence to refine policies and strengthen controls.
We commit to an annual review of this statement and associated policies. Each year Gardeners West Ham will review progress, update risk assessments, publish revisions and set measurable objectives for the coming year. This ongoing review cycle ensures that our anti-slavery programme evolves in line with legal developments, industry best practice and the lived realities of workers.
