Flowers Reading Modern Slavery Statement

Introduction

As a trusted florist serving households and businesses across Reading, Flowers Reading is dedicated to conducting all business with the utmost integrity. We recognise the responsibility we have within our community to actively prevent any form of modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and across our supply chain. This statement details our approach for the current financial year.

Zero Tolerance Policy

Flowers Reading maintains a strict zero tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We believe every individual has the right to work freely and with dignity. Our commitment extends to ensuring that all our business activities and partners uphold these fundamental rights without exception.

Supplier Due Diligence

We expect the same high standards of ethics from those with whom we do business, and as such, carry out rigorous due diligence when engaging with suppliers and service providers. This includes requesting information on their own anti-slavery commitments, understanding their sourcing practices, and reviewing evidence that their employment processes are robust and transparent. When contracts are signed, we require confirmation that there is no modern slavery within the supplier’s operations or supply chain, and we reserve the right to conduct audits at our discretion. Suppliers found to be non-compliant with these principles are subject to review and, where necessary, termination of relationship.

Staff Training

As part of our ongoing commitment, Flowers Reading invests in staff education and awareness. All employees, whether full-time, part-time, or temporary, receive training to understand what modern slavery is, how to identify potential warning signs, and their role in safeguarding ethical practices throughout the business. This ensures that our team members understand not only our policies but also the real-world impact of these issues, empowering them to act as advocates for human rights within our company and community.

Reporting Channels

We encourage openness and transparency. Any staff member or third party with concerns regarding slavery or human trafficking within Flowers Reading or our supply chain can report confidentially using our internal whistleblowing procedures. We protect whistleblowers from negative repercussions and make it clear that these concerns will be taken seriously, investigated thoroughly, and acted upon swiftly. This approach ensures anyone with credible information can come forward without fear.

Annual Review

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure that our strategies remain effective and up-to-date with legal requirements and industry best practices. We also review outcomes from our due diligence activities, staff training feedback, and any reported incidents, using this information to strengthen our policy and processes year after year. We are committed to demonstrating continuous improvement in identifying and mitigating risks related to modern slavery.

Our Responsibility to the Local Community

Our dedication to preventing modern slavery reflects the trust placed in us by the people and businesses of Reading. As a local florist, we are proud to uphold the highest ethical standards in our relationships with customers, suppliers, and staff, reinforcing our position as a responsible and conscientious business at the heart of our community.