Modern Slavery Statement

Introduction

Flowers Merton is dedicated to conducting our business with the utmost integrity and ethical standards. As a trusted florist serving households and businesses throughout Merton, we recognise our responsibility to play an active role in preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. This statement outlines the steps we are taking to ensure that slavery and human trafficking are not present within our operations or our supply chains, reflecting both our legal duties and our community values.

Zero Tolerance Policy

We have a zero tolerance approach to modern slavery in any form, whether that is forced labour, human trafficking, child labour, or exploitation. We are fully committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings, strictly prohibiting any behaviour or practice that facilitates modern slavery. This expectation applies equally to our employees, suppliers, contractors, and business partners.

Supplier Due Diligence

As part of our supplier management procedures, Flowers Merton performs thorough due diligence on all suppliers. We expect our suppliers to demonstrate compliance with all relevant laws regarding the prohibition of modern slavery and to apply similar ethical standards within their own operations. Where possible, we seek written confirmation from suppliers regarding their stance on modern slavery and the steps they have taken to prevent it. We also assess new and existing suppliers for risks associated with modern slavery and require corrective action where concerns are identified.

Staff Training and Awareness

All staff at Flowers Merton receive regular training on recognising the risks of modern slavery within the workplace and our supply chains. Training includes guidance on how to identify signs of exploitation and clear instructions on what to do if modern slavery is suspected. Embedding this awareness ensures our team remains vigilant to risks and acts swiftly in line with our policies.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

We maintain clear reporting channels for employees and others to voice concerns or suspicions about modern slavery safely and confidentially. We encourage openness and will support anyone who raises genuine concerns in good faith, without fear of retaliation. All concerns are taken seriously and promptly investigated in accordance with our established procedures.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure its ongoing relevance and effectiveness. Each year, Flowers Merton assesses our strategies, training, and supplier relationships, updating our approach as needed in response to developing best practice and any emerging risks. We are committed to continuous improvement and transparency in our efforts to eliminate modern slavery from our operations and supply chain.

Our Responsibility to Merton

As a longstanding Merton florist, we are deeply aware of the trust placed in us by our local community. Our commitments outlined in this statement represent a core part of the responsibility we hold—as a local business, an employer, and a service provider—to help safeguard the rights and wellbeing of individuals both within our organisation and throughout the wider supply chain. Flowers Merton is proud to stand against modern slavery and will persistently work to uphold the highest standards of ethical practice.