Modern Slavery Statement: Flowers Silvertown

Introduction and Statement of Commitment

As a trusted florist serving households and businesses across Silvertown, Flowers Silvertown recognises the vital role we play in upholding the highest ethical standards throughout all aspects of our operations. We are committed to transparency, integrity, and respect for human dignity. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines our ongoing efforts to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and supply chains, reflecting our responsibility to our community and customers.

Zero Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Flowers Silvertown operates a strict zero tolerance policy toward any form of modern slavery, including forced labour, human trafficking, and child labour. We will not tolerate such practices within our operations, and we are vigilant in our efforts to identify and eliminate any possible risks within our business relationships. This commitment extends across all areas, from our direct workforce to suppliers and service providers.

Supply Chain Due Diligence

We understand that the risks of modern slavery may be heightened within complex supply chains. As such, we conduct ongoing due diligence on our suppliers, expecting them to share our commitment to ethical trading and human rights. Our processes include:

• Requiring suppliers and contractors to confirm compliance with relevant laws on modern slavery and human rights.
• Assessing suppliers' policies and practices during onboarding and at regular intervals thereafter.
• Embedding modern slavery and human trafficking criteria within supplier selection and assessment frameworks.
• Taking appropriate action, which may include ending relationships with suppliers failing to meet these standards.

Staff Training and Awareness

Our employees are at the core of our ethical culture. Flowers Silvertown provides training and resources to ensure staff at all levels understand the signs of modern slavery and how to respond to concerns. This includes:

• Regular training sessions on modern slavery awareness, tailored to different roles and responsibilities.
• Clear guidance on how to escalate suspicions or complaints related to modern slavery or unethical conduct.
• Updates on relevant legislation and best practices to strengthen staff understanding.

Reporting Channels

We encourage a culture of openness where any staff member, supplier, or stakeholder can raise concerns confidentially and without fear of reprisal. Flowers Silvertown has established a reporting framework for addressing issues related to modern slavery:

• Staff are encouraged to promptly report any suspicions or incidents of modern slavery to their manager or designated safeguarding representative.
• Concerns are treated with the utmost seriousness and investigated thoroughly and impartially.
• Corrective action is taken swiftly should any risk or harm be identified.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

Flowers Silvertown reviews this Modern Slavery Statement annually and whenever significant changes occur in our business or supply chain. Our management team monitors progress against objectives and explores opportunities for improvement. We work in partnership with suppliers, employees, and our community to enhance our efforts in tackling modern slavery.

Conclusion

This statement is made with a sense of duty to the people of Silvertown whom we serve, and to those who help bring our products to life. Flowers Silvertown remains vigilant in our approach to preventing modern slavery, honouring both our legal obligations and our deep-rooted values as a caring local business. We will continue to review, strengthen, and communicate our measures to ensure that our business, and those we work with, uphold the principles of fairness, safety, and respect for every individual.