Modern Slavery Statement – Flowers Tooting Bec
Our Ethical Commitment to Combatting Modern Slavery
At Flowers Tooting Bec, we uphold the highest ethical standards in all our business practices. As a trusted local florist, proudly serving the households and businesses of Tooting Bec, we are committed to ensuring that modern slavery, human trafficking, and all forms of exploitation have no place within our organisation or supply chains. This statement outlines our firm stance and sets forth the actions we take to identify, prevent, and address potential risks.
Zero Tolerance Policy
We operate a strict zero tolerance policy regarding modern slavery and human trafficking. These practices are wholly incompatible with our core values and mission as a conscientious business. Flowers Tooting Bec does not, and will not, engage with any supplier, contractor, or business partner implicated or suspected of facilitating forced or compulsory labour, child labour, or any kind of exploitation.
Supplier Due Diligence
A substantial portion of our operations relies on external suppliers for flowers, plants, packaging, and other materials. Before forming or renewing supplier relationships, we conduct thorough due diligence to assess their ethical standards and working practices. Our reviews consider company track records, public policies on labour rights, certifications where applicable, and responses to our supplier questionnaires addressing compliance with anti-slavery and anti-trafficking regulations. Any supplier failing to meet our standards is not engaged as a partner.
Periodic spot checks and ongoing assessments form part of our continuous efforts to ensure our suppliers remain compliant and share our values. Should a supplier be found in breach of these principles, we will take immediate and appropriate action, which may result in termination of the business relationship.
Staff Training and Awareness
Our dedication to preventing modern slavery also extends to our team. All staff members receive training to increase their understanding of what modern slavery and human trafficking involve, the risks within the floral industry, and the indicators to look out for. Refresher sessions and resources are provided at least annually, ensuring ongoing vigilance and awareness.
Reporting Channels and Responsibility
We have set up clear and confidential channels for all employees, suppliers, and customers to report any suspicions or concerns regarding modern slavery or suspicious behaviours within our operations or supply chain. All reports are treated with the utmost seriousness and are escalated to senior management for immediate investigation and resolution. We reiterate that anyone making a report in good faith will never face retaliation or negative consequences.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
This statement, our policies, and our procedures for combating modern slavery are reviewed annually. This review considers any changes in legal obligations, industry best practices, and feedback from staff or clients. We commit to transparency in our reporting and will update this statement to reflect any advancements in our approach or changes in risk profile.
Our Local Responsibility
As part of the Tooting Bec community, Flowers Tooting Bec recognises the responsibility entrusted to us by households and businesses alike. We do not take this trust lightly. Maintaining the integrity of our operations and supply chains is fundamental to our vision of being a florist that all our customers can rely on, both for quality and for ethical conduct.
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our dedication to upholding human rights, fostering a respectful workplace, and playing our part in the ongoing global effort to eradicate exploitation in all its forms.
