Modern Slavery Statement for Landscaping Lewisham

Landscaping Lewisham is committed to conducting all aspects of our operations with integrity, respect, and accountability. As a responsible provider of outdoor improvement and maintenance services, we recognise that modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitative working practices have no place in our business or supply chains. This statement sets out the steps we take to identify, prevent, and respond to such risks across our landscaping activities, supplier relationships, and contracted work.

We operate a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery and labour exploitation. This applies to our employees, subcontractors, agencies, and suppliers at every level. Our internal controls are designed to ensure that all work is voluntary, fairly compensated, and carried out in safe conditions. We expect every person representing Landscaping Lewisham to act ethically and to uphold our standards of lawful and fair employment.

Our commitment extends to the procurement of materials, equipment, and services used in landscaping projects. Before entering any commercial relationship, we assess whether there are potential indicators of risk, such as unmanaged recruitment practices, excessive working hours, withheld identity documents, or unclear payment arrangements. Where concerns arise, we require corrective action, increased oversight, or termination of the relationship if necessary. We believe that responsible landscaping begins with responsible sourcing.

Supplier Oversight and Due Diligence

To support this policy, Landscaping Lewisham conducts regular supplier audits and reviews of contractor compliance. These checks may include verification of right-to-work documentation, assessment of labour practices, confirmation of wage payments, and inspection of subcontracting arrangements. We also monitor whether suppliers maintain appropriate policies and training to reduce the risk of exploitation within their own operations.

Where a supplier works in areas or with labour models considered higher risk, we apply enhanced due diligence. This may involve requesting evidence of recruitment procedures, site-level labour records, or independent assurances about employment conditions. We aim to work only with organisations that share our commitment to lawful, ethical, and transparent business conduct. If a supplier fails to meet these expectations, we will act decisively to protect people and preserve the integrity of our operations.

Training is an important part of our preventive approach. Staff involved in recruitment, purchasing, site supervision, and contractor management are encouraged to recognise warning signs of modern slavery. These may include restricted movement, signs of intimidation, inconsistent pay information, or workers appearing unable to speak freely about their employment. By improving awareness, we strengthen our ability to spot and address risks early.

Reporting Channels and Safeguarding

We provide clear reporting channels so concerns can be raised promptly and safely. Reports may be made internally through management, supervisory routes, or designated safeguarding procedures. Concerns are handled seriously, confidentially, and without retaliation. We encourage all workers, subcontractors, and suppliers to speak up if they suspect exploitation, unsafe recruitment, or any breach of our standards.

If an allegation or suspicion is raised, it is assessed quickly and sensitively. Depending on the circumstances, we may suspend work with a supplier, request further evidence, escalate the matter to appropriate authorities, or support remediation where a safe and lawful remedy is possible. Our approach is grounded in the principle that protecting vulnerable people must always come before commercial convenience.

This statement applies to all activities connected with Landscaping Lewisham, including planting, grounds maintenance, soft landscaping, and associated supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery risks can evolve over time, especially where subcontracting is involved or where labour is sourced through agencies. For that reason, our controls are designed to be practical, responsive, and embedded in day-to-day decision-making.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

We will review this statement annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legal and ethical expectations. The review will consider audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, policy updates, and any changes in risk across our operations. Where needed, we will strengthen our procedures, update staff guidance, and refine our due diligence measures.

Landscaping Lewisham is committed to continuous improvement and to promoting a working environment where dignity, fairness, and transparency are normal practice. By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, carrying out supplier audits, providing safe reporting channels, and reviewing our approach each year, we reinforce our responsibility to prevent modern slavery and support ethical landscaping across every project we undertake.