Modern Slavery Statement – Flowers Marks Gate
Our Commitment to Combating Modern Slavery
At Flowers Marks Gate, we are dedicated to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships. As a trusted florist serving the Marks Gate community—including local households and businesses—we fully recognise our responsibility to help prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our direct operations and throughout our supply chains.
Zero Tolerance Policy
We uphold a strict zero tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking. This principle is woven into the values of our business and applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers, and anyone associated with Flowers Marks Gate. The wellbeing and rights of every individual throughout our operations are non-negotiable priorities.
Supplier Due Diligence and Risk Management
Flowers Marks Gate carefully selects suppliers and maintains regular reviews of our procurement processes. We expect suppliers to meet high standards with regard to employment practices and human rights. As part of our due diligence, we:
- Require confirmation from suppliers that they do not condone or engage in modern slavery or human trafficking.
- Assess new suppliers for potential risks and require them to acknowledge our standards and policies.
- Monitor and evaluate ongoing supplier relationships, reserving the right to terminate contracts if standards are not maintained.
Should evidence of modern slavery be found, Flowers Marks Gate will take swift, decisive action, up to and including discontinuation of business with the offending party.
Employee Training and Awareness
All employees receive training to increase awareness of the signs of modern slavery and how to respond if concerns arise. Our training covers:
- The legal and ethical implications of modern slavery.
- How to identify the signs of forced labour and exploitation.
- Our internal processes for escalating and addressing concerns.
We strive to nurture an open culture in which staff feel confident about discussing and reporting potential issues without fear of reprisal.
Reporting and Whistleblowing Channels
Flowers Marks Gate encourages anyone—be it employees, suppliers, or third parties—to report concerns related to modern slavery or unethical conduct. We offer confidential internal channels for the reporting of suspected instances. All reports are reviewed and investigated thoroughly, and corrective action is taken where necessary. Our procedures reinforce our commitment to a transparent, ethical, and responsible operation at every level of the business.
Annual Statement and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and updated annually to reflect changes in our practices, emerging risks, and regulatory requirements. Regular evaluations ensure that our measures remain effective and that we continue to improve our approach in response to new challenges. This continual process underscores our unwavering commitment to eradicating modern slavery across our business and supply chains.
Responsibility to Our Community
Flowers Marks Gate values the trust placed in us by the Marks Gate community. As a local florist, our responsibility extends beyond providing quality products and services—we are committed to leading by example and upholding human rights. Our efforts to combat modern slavery are just one way in which we strive to serve our customers, partners, and neighbours with integrity and respect.
