Modern Slavery Statement — Gardening Islington

Gardening Islington publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to affirm our commitment to eradicating exploitation in all its forms. Our anti-slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking and other abuses across our operations and supply chains. We are unequivocal: there is a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of modern slavery. We will act swiftly if issues are found, and we commit to transparency about our approach.

Scope and Purpose

This modern slavery policy covers Gardening Islington's direct employees, contractors and the wide network of suppliers and subcontractors we engage with. We refer to this as our slavery and human trafficking statement as well as our broader anti-slavery policy, recognising that preventing exploitation requires ongoing vigilance, training and action at every level of the business.

Principles and Commitments

Our core principles include respect for human rights, fair pay and safe working conditions. As part of this anti-slavery statement, Gardening Islington commits to:

• Implementing due diligence across procurement and staffing;
• Conducting risk assessments of regions, sectors and suppliers;
• Responding promptly to any credible allegations.

We use the term modern slavery and human trafficking policy interchangeably to emphasise a consistent approach.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardening Islington operates a strict zero-tolerance policy: any supplier, contractor or employee found to be involved in forced labour, debt bondage or human trafficking will face immediate action which may include contract termination and referral to the appropriate authorities. We expect our partners to adhere to the same standards and to demonstrate compliance through documentation, transparency and cooperation with investigations.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We implement a risk-based supplier audit programme to verify compliance. Audits combine desktop checks, documentary evidence and where necessary, on-site inspections. Our supplier audits focus on

• Proof of legal right to work and recruitment practices;
• Wage and hour compliance and safe conditions;
• Subcontractor transparency and chain-of-custody records.

Suppliers identified as higher risk are subject to more frequent review and corrective action plans.

Training and Awareness

We provide regular training for staff involved in procurement, project supervision and human resources to ensure they can spot signs of exploitation and understand reporting procedures. Training materials explain the legal frameworks, our contractual expectations and practical steps for escalation. This training is part of our living anti-slavery statement framework and is updated annually to reflect lessons learned.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardening Islington maintains confidential reporting channels that allow employees, contractors and third parties to raise concerns in good faith. Reports are treated seriously and investigated without retaliation. We offer multiple safe avenues for disclosure and emphasise that whistleblowers will be protected. Our reporting procedures ensure timely investigation, remedial action and, when appropriate, referral to law enforcement.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

We will review this slavery and human trafficking statement at least annually. The review will consider audit findings, incident reports, changes in law and stakeholder feedback. Outcomes from the annual review inform policy updates, improvements in supplier due diligence, enhanced training and resource allocation. Gardening Islington is committed to continuous improvement: we will measure progress, report publicly on key outcomes and adapt our approach to reduce the risk of modern slavery throughout our activities.

Governance and Accountability

Responsibility for implementation lies with senior management and designated compliance leads. Our board reviews the modern slavery policy annually and receives summaries of audit results and reported incidents. This governance structure ensures accountability and that our zero-tolerance stance is embedded into procurement, project delivery and community engagement practices.

In conclusion, Gardening Islington's Modern Slavery Statement is a formal declaration of our commitment to prevent exploitation. We will continue to strengthen our controls, work collaboratively with partners, and act decisively if modern slavery risks are identified.