Gardeners Ham Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Ham to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Ham recognises its responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and to protect the rights and wellbeing of all individuals who contribute to the production and delivery of our products.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Ham has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, child labour, servitude and any practice that exploits vulnerable people. We are committed to conducting our business in a manner that respects human rights, complies with all applicable labour laws, and promotes fair and safe working conditions.

All employees, contractors and suppliers are expected to act in accordance with this policy. Any breach of this standard is considered a serious violation of our ethical commitments and may result in corrective action, including the termination of contracts or business relationships.

Governance and Responsibility

Overall responsibility for our modern slavery commitments rests with the senior leadership of Gardeners Ham. Management teams are responsible for implementing this statement within their areas of control and for ensuring that staff understand their obligations. Training and communication are provided to relevant employees to raise awareness of modern slavery risks and to reinforce our expectations of ethical conduct.

Risk Assessment in Our Supply Chains

As a food producer, Gardeners Ham operates within complex supply chains that may span multiple countries and sectors. We regularly review our supply chains to identify areas where the risks of modern slavery may be higher, such as in raw material sourcing, agricultural labour, logistics and packaging. This risk-based approach helps us to prioritise due diligence efforts and focus on those suppliers and tiers where additional scrutiny is required.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. Our supplier agreements include requirements to comply with applicable labour laws, uphold human rights and maintain transparent employment practices. Suppliers are required to ensure that their own subcontractors and business partners meet equivalent standards.

Gardeners Ham conducts audits and assessments of selected suppliers, with an emphasis on those operating in higher risk regions or sectors. These audits may include site visits, document checks and worker interviews conducted by qualified personnel or independent specialists. Where non-compliances or concerns are identified, we work with suppliers to develop corrective action plans with clear timelines and follow-up reviews. Failure to address serious or repeated issues can result in suspension or termination of the supplier relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Ham encourages employees, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns about possible modern slavery, exploitation or unethical labour practices connected to our business or supply chains. We provide confidential reporting channels that allow individuals to raise concerns without fear of retaliation. All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly and impartially where appropriate.

We are committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Retaliation or victimisation of whistleblowers is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action where applicable. We also encourage suppliers to maintain their own internal reporting mechanisms and to escalate any material concerns to Gardeners Ham.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Ham recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires vigilance, collaboration and continuous improvement. We are committed to refining our policies, procedures and training as best practice and legal requirements evolve. Lessons learned from audits, investigations, stakeholder feedback and industry developments are used to strengthen our approach.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year by senior management. The review considers the effectiveness of our risk assessments, supplier audits, training programmes and reporting channels, as well as any incidents or new risks identified during the period. Revisions to this statement or related policies are communicated internally and to relevant external partners to ensure continued alignment with our zero-tolerance stance.

By issuing this statement, Gardeners Ham reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking and to promoting ethical, transparent and responsible business practices throughout our operations and supply chains.