Modern Slavery Statement for Landscapers Hatchend

Landscapers Hatchend is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps taken to prevent slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the landscaping sector can involve complex labour arrangements, subcontracting, and material sourcing, which may increase the risk of unethical practices if controls are not strong and consistent.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery. This applies to every level of our business, including employees, subcontractors, agency labour, and suppliers. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts, disciplinary action, or reporting to the relevant authorities where appropriate. No individual should be subjected to coercion, withholding of wages, unsafe working conditions, or restricted freedom of movement.

Our commitment is embedded in recruitment, procurement, and operational decisions. We require that workers are engaged voluntarily, are of legal working age, and are paid in line with applicable laws. Landscapers Hatchend also expects our business partners to maintain the same standards and to take active responsibility for identifying risks in their own operations.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Supplier oversight is central to our approach. We assess new suppliers and contractors before engagement, taking into account country of origin, labour practices, business history, and the nature of the goods or services supplied. High-risk arrangements are subject to enhanced scrutiny, including document checks and clarification of labour arrangements.

We carry out supplier audits on a risk-based schedule to confirm compliance with our standards. These audits may include worker interviews, review of payroll records, right-to-work checks, and examination of subcontracting chains. Where concerns are identified, suppliers are required to implement corrective actions promptly. Persistent failure to improve may lead to suspension or removal from our approved supplier list. This approach helps ensure that Landscapers Hatchend works only with partners who respect lawful employment and ethical sourcing.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibility

Managers and relevant staff receive awareness training so they can recognise warning signs such as excessive recruitment fees, document retention, intimidation, or unexplained wage deductions. Responsibility for oversight sits with senior management, who review risk indicators and ensure corrective measures are applied consistently across the business. We also promote a culture in which ethical concerns are taken seriously and investigated without delay.

Reporting Channels and Safe Raising of Concerns

Anyone working with or for the business is encouraged to report suspected breaches of this statement. Concerns may be raised through internal management lines, direct reporting to senior leadership, or confidential whistleblowing procedures. Reports can be made anonymously where permitted, and all disclosures are handled sensitively. Retaliation is not tolerated against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

We investigate reports promptly and objectively, ensuring that potential victims are protected and that evidence is preserved. If a modern slavery risk is confirmed, we work with the relevant parties to end the abuse and, where necessary, involve appropriate external agencies. This supports a practical and accountable response that prioritises human dignity.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. The review considers audit findings, supplier performance, training outcomes, reported concerns, and changes in risk profile. Where improvements are needed, action plans are agreed and monitored by senior management.