Modern Slavery Statement – Flowers Welwyn
Introduction
Modern slavery, encompassing slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and other forms of exploitation, is a grave violation of human rights. At Flowers Welwyn, we recognise our responsibility as a trusted florist serving Welwyn’s households and businesses. We are committed to conducting all our activities ethically and with integrity, ensuring that modern slavery has no place within our business or supply chains.
Our Zero Tolerance Policy
Flowers Welwyn maintains a strict zero tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. This policy extends to all aspects of our operations and relationships. We expect the same high standards from all our employees, suppliers, and business partners. Any form of modern slavery discovered within our business or supply chain will result in immediate action, up to and including terminating contracts or partnerships.
Supplier Due Diligence
We understand that the risk of modern slavery may exist at different levels of the supply chain. Therefore, Flowers Welwyn conducts diligent assessments of potential and current suppliers. Our due diligence process includes:
- Requiring suppliers to confirm adherence to anti-slavery laws and our ethical business practices.
- Seeking evidence of policies and actions taken by suppliers to prevent modern slavery in their own operations and supply chains.
- Reviewing supplier relationships regularly and evaluating any identified risks.
We work closely with our suppliers to encourage transparency and foster ethical working conditions throughout our procurement process.
Staff Training and Awareness
Our team is central to upholding our values. Flowers Welwyn provides training and educational resources to ensure all our employees are aware of what modern slavery is, how to identify warning signs, and understand the steps to take if they suspect unethical practices. New and existing staff members receive updates and information as legislation or best practice evolves, reinforcing our commitment to continuous improvement in this critical area.
Reporting and Communication Channels
We encourage every member of our staff and wider community to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking, whether it concerns our business or our supply partners. Flowers Welwyn has established clear internal procedures for reporting concerns confidentially and without fear of reprisal. All reports are investigated thoroughly and appropriate action is always taken, in line with our commitment to act with integrity and transparency.
Annual Review and Continual Improvement
We recognise that combating modern slavery requires ongoing vigilance and improvement. Each year, Flowers Welwyn reviews and updates this Modern Slavery Statement as well as our related policies. This annual review allows us to adapt to new risks, legislation, and best practices, and to measure the effectiveness of the actions we have implemented.
Our Responsibility as a Trusted Welwyn Florist
As a business embedded in the Welwyn community, serving both households and local businesses, we are deeply conscious of our responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards. Our proactive approach to identifying and preventing modern slavery is an essential aspect of maintaining the trust our community places in us. We are committed to a transparent, accountable, and continually improving approach to this issue.
Statement Approval
This statement has been reviewed and approved by the leadership team at Flowers Welwyn and is communicated to employees, suppliers, and stakeholders. We stand firmly against all forms of modern slavery and will continue working diligently to prevent it in every aspect of our business.
