Modern Slavery Statement — Gardening Covent Garden

Gardening Covent Garden sets out its commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking across our operations and supply chain. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of forced labour, exploitation, or trafficking. Our statement applies to all staff, contractors and suppliers who provide services to Gardens Covent Garden and to the broader Covent Garden gardening community.

Our approach and purpose

The purpose of this modern slavery policy is to ensure that everyone who works with us understands the standards we require. Gardening in Covent Garden must be conducted with respect for human rights and dignity. We require all colleagues and partners to uphold these values and to report concerns without fear of retaliation.

Zero-tolerance policy

Zero-tolerance means that any confirmed instance of modern slavery will result in immediate remedial action, which may include termination of contracts and referral to the appropriate authorities. Gardening Covent Garden enforces strict disciplinary measures and works to remediate harm suffered by victims while ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable. Our commitment to eradicating exploitation is non-negotiable.

Due diligence and supplier audits

We operate a risk-based due diligence programme that targets high-risk areas of our supply chain, including seasonal labour suppliers and subcontracted garden maintenance services. Garden services Covent Garden are assessed against our labour standards during procurement and through ongoing monitoring. Supplier audits combine document review, site visits and worker interviews to identify potential indicators of modern slavery.

Supplier expectations

All vendors and partners are required to adhere to our Supplier Code of Conduct which includes provisions on working hours, wage practices, freedom of movement and the prohibition of recruitment fees. Covent Garden Gardeners who fail to meet these expectations are subject to corrective action plans; persistent non-compliance leads to contract termination.

Audit outcomes are recorded and tracked, and remedial measures are put in place when issues are identified. We prioritise worker-centred remedies, including safe reporting, back-pay where applicable and support for affected individuals. Our audit cadence is tailored by risk and reviewed annually to ensure continuous improvement.

Reporting channels and whistleblowing

We provide multiple secure reporting channels so that concerns about exploitation can be raised confidentially or anonymously. Reports may be made through internal mechanisms and are treated seriously, investigated promptly and impartially. Covent Garden gardening stakeholders are encouraged to speak up; we will protect whistleblowers in line with our policies.

Reports trigger a structured response that includes risk assessment, investigation and where necessary, collaboration with law enforcement and non-governmental organisations to ensure victim support. Gardening Covent Garden emphasises transparency and accountability throughout any remedial process while respecting individuals' privacy and safety.

Training, communication and annual review

We deliver targeted training for procurement, HR and site management teams to help them recognise signs of modern slavery and respond appropriately. Our training materials reference real-world scenarios relevant to gardening and horticultural supply chains. Annual review of the modern slavery programme ensures policies remain effective: we publish progress updates internally, refine audit approaches and adjust resource allocation according to emerging risks.