Abbey Wood Florist Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
Abbey Wood Florist is committed to conducting its business with the highest ethical standards and to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of its operations. This statement sets out the steps we take to identify, prevent and address the risk of modern slavery within our business and supply chains.
As a trusted Abbey Wood florist serving local households, community organisations and businesses, we recognise our responsibility to ensure that the flowers, plants, accessories and services we provide are sourced and delivered in a way that respects human rights and upholds dignity for all workers.
Zero Tolerance Policy
Abbey Wood Florist has a zero tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitative working conditions. We do not knowingly engage with any supplier, contractor or business partner that engages in practices which are incompatible with this stance.
All individuals working for or on behalf of Abbey Wood Florist, whether employees, agency workers, contractors or suppliers, are expected to act in line with this policy. Any breach or suspected breach will be treated seriously and may result in termination of contracts or other appropriate actions.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Our operations include the sourcing of fresh flowers, plants, sundries and associated products, as well as the provision of floral design and delivery services across Abbey Wood and surrounding areas. Our supply chains include growers, wholesalers, packaging providers, logistics partners and occasional seasonal labour providers.
We seek to work with reputable, established suppliers that can demonstrate sound labour practices and a commitment to ethical trading. Where possible, we favour suppliers who share transparent information about their own supply chains.
Supplier Due Diligence
To minimise the risk of modern slavery, Abbey Wood Florist conducts proportionate due diligence on existing and new suppliers. This may include:
- Requesting confirmation that suppliers comply with relevant labour, employment and human rights legislation in their operating countries.
- Seeking assurances that no forced, bonded, child or trafficked labour is used in the production or distribution of goods supplied to us.
- Reviewing publicly available information, statements or policies on ethical sourcing and modern slavery where applicable.
- Considering the geographic location, sector and nature of services provided when assessing risk.
Where concerns are identified, we will seek clarification and, if necessary, decline or discontinue the relationship if adequate assurances and improvements cannot be obtained.
Staff Training and Awareness
We recognise that awareness is essential to preventing modern slavery. Abbey Wood Florist provides training and guidance to relevant staff members so they can understand:
- What modern slavery and human trafficking are and how they can manifest in supply chains.
- The signs that may indicate exploitation or coercion.
- The steps to take if they have concerns about a colleague, supplier, contractor or worker in our supply chain.
Training is incorporated into induction for new staff with purchasing or supplier management responsibilities, and refresher guidance is provided periodically as needed.
Reporting Channels and Escalation
We encourage all staff, workers, suppliers and other stakeholders to raise any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised with a manager or designated senior member of the Abbey Wood Florist team, in person or in writing.
All reports will be taken seriously, handled sensitively and investigated where appropriate. We will not tolerate victimisation of anyone who raises concerns in good faith. Where evidence of modern slavery is found, we will take immediate steps to address the issue, which may include notifying relevant authorities and terminating relationships with implicated parties.
Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement
We recognise that addressing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility and that risks may change over time. Abbey Wood Florist will review this statement and our associated practices at least once every year, or sooner if there are significant changes to our business or supply chains.
As part of the annual review, we will consider feedback from staff, suppliers and stakeholders, as well as any reported concerns or incidents. We will use this information to strengthen our due diligence processes, refine training content and enhance our overall approach to ethical sourcing.
By maintaining this modern slavery statement and continually reviewing our practices, Abbey Wood Florist aims to uphold the trust placed in us by our Abbey Wood community, ensuring that our products and services reflect not only quality and creativity, but also respect for human rights and ethical working conditions.
