Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Crystal Palace

Gardeners Crystal Palace is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms across our operations and supply chains. This statement sets out our position, the steps we take, and the expectations we place on suppliers and partners. Our zero-tolerance policy is clear: we will not accept forced labour, bonded labour, or any exploitation of workers connected to the activities of Gardeners of Crystal Palace.

As Crystal Palace gardeners and a community-focused employer, we carry responsibilities for our employees, contractors, and seasonal workers. We embed anti-slavery obligations into contracts, provide training, and require that all those who work with Gardeners - Crystal Palace uphold our standards. Our leadership team has primary accountability for compliance and periodic reporting to the Board of Trustees.

We carry out risk assessments across our procurement categories to identify where the risk of modern slavery is higher, such as in supply of plants, landscaping materials, and outsourced labour. Gardeners in Crystal Palace apply due diligence procedures when onboarding suppliers and making purchasing decisions, focusing on visibility and traceability through the chain of supply.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We maintain a programme of supplier audits, both remote and on-site, proportionate to the assessed level of risk. Audits assess working conditions, recruitment practices, wage records, and documentation. Our supplier audit process includes pre-qualification checks, contractual clauses requiring compliance with anti-slavery standards, and regular follow-up to ensure remediation where issues are identified.

We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to implement their own management systems to mitigate the risk of exploitation. As part of our procurement, Gardeners of Crystal Palace insist on transparency, allowing us to trace origin points for higher-risk goods. We provide training materials and support to smaller suppliers to help them meet these expectations.

To strengthen enforcement, Gardeners Crystal Palace reserves the right to suspend or terminate agreements where suppliers fail to remedy identified breaches. We use a combination of documentation checks, worker interviews where feasible, and photographic or transactional evidence to validate compliance and follow-up. Supplier audits are scheduled annually or more frequently for high-risk partners.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We provide clear reporting channels for employees, contractors, and third parties to raise concerns about suspected modern slavery. Reports can be made through anonymous internal channels, raised to line managers, or escalated to the compliance officer. Gardeners - Crystal Palace fosters a non-retaliation environment so reporters are protected.

Our internal reporting mechanisms include documented procedures for intake, confidential investigation, and resolution. All concerns are triaged and investigated promptly and proportionately. Where allegations are substantiated, we cooperate with authorities and support victims through remediation measures, while also reviewing policies and disciplinary measures where appropriate.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

We review this modern slavery statement on an annual basis to reflect evolving risks, audit findings, and changes in legislation. During each annual review Gardeners in Crystal Palace will publish an updated statement, refresh training, and adjust supplier audit priorities. Our continuous improvement approach includes stakeholder engagement, periodic reassessment of supply chains, and integrating learnings into procurement practices.

Key elements of our approach include:

• Zero-tolerance policy: explicit contractual clauses and disciplinary frameworks;
• Supplier audits: targeted assessments, follow-up remediation and re-assessment;
• Reporting channels: secure, confidential ways to raise concerns and whistleblower protections;
• Annual review: systematic assessment of policy effectiveness and public reporting.

Gardeners Crystal Palace remains committed to rooting out modern slavery across our operations. We recognise that eradicating exploitation requires persistent vigilance, partnership with suppliers, and ongoing training of staff and stakeholders. The actions described here reflect our current practices and our commitment to strengthen them over time.

Senior management is responsible for ensuring resources are allocated to these efforts and for reporting progress. The Board oversees the implementation, and an annual compliance review informs future direction. Gardeners of Crystal Palace will continue to develop policies, deepen due diligence, and respond to emerging risks to protect every worker connected to our activities.

This statement is endorsed by the leadership of Gardeners Crystal Palace and will be reviewed at least once every twelve months as part of our governance cycle.