Modern Slavery Statement 2024 – Florist Pentonville

Introduction

At Florist Pentonville, we acknowledge our responsibility as a trusted florist serving both households and local businesses throughout the Pentonville area. In line with this responsibility, we are committed to preventing all forms of modern slavery, including human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation, both within our own operations and throughout our supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take towards upholding these values.

Zero Tolerance Policy

Florist Pentonville maintains a robust zero tolerance policy for modern slavery in any form. We do not condone or accept the use of forced, coerced, or trafficked labour, whether directly or indirectly associated with our business. This policy is communicated internally to all staff and externally to our suppliers, partners, and stakeholders to ensure that our standards and expectations are clear and unequivocal.

Supplier Due Diligence

As a business that depends on a diverse range of suppliers, particularly in the areas of fresh flowers, foliage, packaging, and related goods, we conduct thorough due diligence before engaging with any supplier. This involves:

  • Assessing suppliers’ compliance with relevant modern slavery legislation and ethical trading standards
  • Requiring suppliers to provide information on their practices and employment conditions
  • Reviewing suppliers’ own policies and procedures related to modern slavery
  • Undertaking risk assessments, especially with those operating in higher-risk sectors or countries

Where potential risks are identified, we work with our suppliers to address and mitigate these risks, or we cease working with suppliers who cannot demonstrate ethical practices.

Staff Training and Awareness

Education and awareness are fundamental to our efforts against modern slavery. Our staff receive regular training on how to recognise the signs of modern slavery and human trafficking, giving them the skills to identify potential risks in both our immediate operations and wider supply chain. This training emphasises the importance of vigilance and ethical responsibility as part of the Florist Pentonville team.

Reporting Channels

Florist Pentonville encourages a culture of openness and integrity. Any staff member, supplier, or stakeholder who suspects or becomes aware of any instance of modern slavery or unethical practice can raise their concerns using our internal reporting channels. All reports are treated with the utmost seriousness, handled sensitively, and investigated thoroughly by designated members of our management team. We are committed to ensuring there are no negative repercussions for those who raise concerns in good faith.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

We believe in continuous improvement and are dedicated to strengthening our practices year after year. This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure that it remains relevant, rigorous, and effective in the face of new risks and changing legislation. As part of this process, we review and, where necessary, enhance our due diligence processes, supplier engagement strategies, and training programmes to adapt to emerging challenges and uphold the trust of our community.

Conclusion

As a local business serving the Pentonville community, Florist Pentonville recognises the importance of ethical leadership and transparency. Our commitment to eliminating all forms of modern slavery reflects both our core values and our ongoing duty of care to our customers, staff, suppliers, and the wider community. We remain focused on upholding these standards in everything we do now and in the future.