Modern Slavery Statement
Our Commitment to Combating Modern Slavery
Barkingside Flowers is committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards in every aspect of our business. As a trusted Barkingside florist serving both local households and businesses, we recognise our responsibility to protect human rights and prevent modern slavery in all its forms within our operations and supply chains.
Zero Tolerance Approach
We hold a strict zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery, including forced labour, human trafficking, servitude, and child labour. All our staff members and suppliers are expected to uphold these fundamental principles and comply with all relevant laws and regulations.
Supplier Due Diligence
Maintaining an ethical supply chain lies at the heart of our values. We work closely with our suppliers to ensure they share our commitment to eradicating modern slavery. As part of our due diligence, we require our suppliers to confirm that their operations do not engage in or support any form of modern slavery or human rights abuses. We assess suppliers based on their adherence to ethical sourcing practices and reserve the right to end relationships with any supplier that fails to meet our standards.
Regular reviews are carried out, and we seek to work with suppliers who demonstrate transparency in their business practices. Contracts with suppliers include clauses relating to adherence to anti-slavery legislation, and we expect them to ensure that their subcontractors and other business partners comply as well.
Staff Training and Awareness
We believe that staff awareness and training are vital to tackling modern slavery. All Barkingside Flowers employees receive information and guidance so they are familiar with the risks of modern slavery and the signs that might indicate its presence. Regular refresher sessions are conducted to reinforce the importance of identifying and reporting any suspicious activities, whether in-house or within our supply routes.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Barkingside Flowers encourages a culture of openness and integrity. We ensure that all our colleagues know how to raise any concerns safely and anonymously, without fear of reprisal. Our reporting channels are structured so that concerns regarding modern slavery, unethical behaviour, or human rights abuses can be addressed quickly and appropriately. We take all reports seriously and investigate them promptly, taking corrective action where necessary.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
To ensure the effectiveness of our approach to combating modern slavery, Barkingside Flowers conducts an annual review of our policies, supplier relationships, and internal processes. This review considers changes in legislation, emerging risks, and feedback from staff, customers, and stakeholders. We are committed to continuous improvement and will update our practices as needed to strengthen our response to modern slavery.
Our Ethical Responsibility
By upholding these standards, Barkingside Flowers reflects its responsibility not only as a local florist but also as an ethical business valued by our community. We remain dedicated to ensuring that all flowers and products supplied to Barkingside homes and businesses are sourced with respect for fundamental human rights and dignity.
