Modern Slavery Statement for Garden Maintenance Southgate

Garden Maintenance Southgate publishes this modern slavery statement to set out our firm position against forced labour, human trafficking and all forms of exploitation. This anti-slavery statement explains how our values, procurement practices and operational controls combine to prevent modern slavery in our business and supply chain. We operate with a zero-tolerance policy and are committed to continuous improvement.

We recognise that a robust Modern Slavery and human trafficking policy is essential for a local landscaping and garden care company like ours. Our commitment applies to all colleagues, contractors and partners working for or on behalf of Garden Maintenance Southgate. The purpose of this Modern Slavery Statement is to make clear the steps we take to identify and address modern slavery risks and to ensure transparency in our approach.

This anti-slavery policy includes explicit contractual clauses that require suppliers to comply with anti-slavery laws and to allow us to conduct checks. We embed due diligence in procurement, carry out regular supplier risk assessments and expect suppliers to maintain clear records of employment practices. Our approach to supplier assurance is pragmatic yet firm, combining document review with targeted site visits.

Zero-tolerance, Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery. Any instance or credible allegation will trigger immediate action, which may include suspension of contracts and termination. Our board and senior management oversee a formal escalation process to ensure swift remediation where required. Prevention is achieved through policies, training and supplier engagement.

Supplier audits form a core part of our prevention and detection strategy. Audits are conducted by trained internal staff or third-party auditors, focusing on recruitment practices, working hours, pay, and right-to-work documentation. We prioritise audits for suppliers in high-risk categories, and we use findings to inform bespoke corrective action plans.

To support accountability we have introduced:

• Contractual commitments requiring compliance and audit rights;
• Risk-based supplier screening at onboarding and annually thereafter;
• Targeted assurance reviews for labour-intensive services and seasonal labour providers.

Reporting Channels, Training and Annual Review

We maintain clear reporting channels for employees, contractors and third parties to raise concerns about forced labour or exploitation. Reports can be made through internal line managers, anonymous whistleblowing mechanisms and designated compliance officers. All reports are treated as confidential and investigated promptly by trained personnel. We encourage prompt reporting and protect whistleblowers from retaliation.

Education and awareness are key to prevention. All staff and relevant contractors receive training on recognising signs of modern slavery, reporting obligations and the expectations set out in this modern slavery and human trafficking statement. Refresher training is provided regularly and tailored to roles that pose higher risk.

We commit to an annual review of our policies and processes. The review assesses the effectiveness of supplier audits, risk assessments and reporting outcomes, and it leads to updated measures when gaps are identified. Findings from reviews are reported to senior management, and where appropriate, to our governance body. Continuous improvement and transparency guide our actions.

Garden Maintenance Southgate will continue to collaborate with suppliers, industry peers and relevant stakeholders to strengthen anti-slavery controls. Our sustained focus on supplier audits, a clear zero-tolerance stance, accessible reporting channels and a regular annual review cycle underpins our efforts to eradicate modern slavery from our operations and supply chain. This statement reflects a living commitment to ethical labour standards and responsible procurement across all our gardening and maintenance services.

We expect every partner and colleague to support this commitment. Through practical steps, clear governance and persistent vigilance, Garden Maintenance Southgate aims to contribute to a supply chain free from exploitation and to uphold the dignity and rights of all workers engaged in or affected by our services.

By publishing this modern slavery statement, GMS Southgate reaffirms a proactive stance against forced labour and pledges ongoing action, monitoring and accountability to ensure that our business remains a safe and ethical place to work and to procure services from.