Modern Slavery Statement for Gardening Services Chingford

Gardening Services Chingford is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach, reflecting our zero-tolerance stance. We recognise that as a provider of Chingford gardening services and related landscaping work we have a responsibility to ensure workers are treated fairly, paid appropriately and free from exploitation.

We operate across domestic and commercial contracts and use local subcontractors for grounds maintenance, planting and seasonal labour. Our policy covers all colleagues, contractors and suppliers providing goods or services to Gardening Services in Chingford and neighbouring areas. The company requires adherence to applicable labour laws and international standards, and we embed these standards into our contractor agreements.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Our zero-tolerance policy to modern slavery is clear: forced labour, debt bondage, deceptive recruitment and withholding of identity documents are strictly prohibited. Managers and supervisors are trained to recognise signs of exploitation, and we use a risk-based approach to assess activities such as seasonal planting projects and larger landscaping contracts where temporary labour is engaged.

To reinforce our commitment, we maintain clear contractual clauses requiring compliance with anti-slavery principles for all suppliers to our Chingford gardening services. These clauses mandate lawful working hours, transparent pay, and the right to leave. We also insist on documented proof of right to work and secure records for temporary and migrant workers to reduce the risk of coercion or fraudulent arrangements.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Our supplier audit programme includes scheduled checks and spot inspections. Audits consider payroll records, recruitment practices and accommodation arrangements where provided. We employ a mixture of self-assessment questionnaires, desktop reviews and on-site visits. Key audit steps include:

• Verification of identity and right-to-work documentation;
• Review of payroll and payslips to confirm legal wage payment;
• Interviews with workers in private to detect coercion or withholding of documents;
• Assessment of recruitment fees and any third-party labour providers.

Where audits reveal non-compliance we require corrective action plans, with escalation routes that may lead to suspension or termination of supply agreements. We prioritise remediation of affected workers as a primary outcome.

We have established clear reporting channels to enable safe, confidential reporting of concerns related to modern slavery. Employees and contractors supporting Chingford gardening services are encouraged to raise issues without fear of retaliation. Reporting methods include internal line management escalation, anonymous reporting mechanisms and referrals to relevant authorities where criminal activity is suspected.

Our whistleblowing arrangements protect whistleblowers and ensure that reports are investigated promptly by trained personnel. Investigations follow documented procedures and outcomes are recorded. We also offer support to suspected victims, including access to independent advice and, where necessary, contact with local support services.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

We review this statement and our policies annually to measure effectiveness and update controls. The annual review includes analysis of audit findings, training completion rates, reported incidents and supplier performance. As part of continuous improvement, we will refine procurement checks, strengthen contractual clauses and expand training for staff in procurement and operations.

Gardening Services - Chingford remains dedicated to maintaining high ethical standards across all aspects of our work. This statement applies throughout the financial year and will be published internally and retained as part of our governance records. By embedding these principles into our everyday business practices, Chingford garden services aims to minimise risks and protect vulnerable workers across our supply chain.