Modern Slavery Statement: Richmond Flowers’ Approach
Our Zero Tolerance Policy
Richmond Flowers is absolutely committed to preventing acts of modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business and supply chains. As a locally-trusted florist serving Richmond’s households and businesses, we uphold the highest standards of ethics and integrity in all our operations. Modern slavery, in all its forms, will not be tolerated by Richmond Flowers under any circumstances. This commitment reflects both our legal obligations and our moral responsibility to the community we serve.
Supplier Due Diligence and Risk Management
We recognise that our greatest risk of exposure to modern slavery lies within our supply chain, particularly in the sourcing of flowers, plants, and associated products. Richmond Flowers operates a thorough supplier due diligence programme designed to identify, assess, and mitigate risks of modern slavery. All new suppliers are evaluated through robust checks to determine their compliance with anti-slavery standards and ethical business practices. We require our suppliers to commit to our zero-tolerance approach and expect them to undertake similar diligence within their own supply chains.
We conduct regular reviews of our ongoing supplier relationships, working collaboratively to ensure all parties in our supply network meet or exceed legal and ethical benchmarks. Where concerns are identified, Richmond Flowers will take prompt and decisive action, which may include termination of the business relationship if compliance cannot be assured.
Staff Training and Awareness
Educating our team is essential in the fight against modern slavery. All staff, from management to our frontline florists and delivery personnel, receive training on recognising the signs of modern slavery and understanding our reporting protocols. We provide regular updates and resources to develop their awareness of current legislation and best practice. This ensures that every member of our staff is empowered and equipped to identify risks both in our workplace and amongst our suppliers.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Richmond Flowers maintains an open-door policy when it comes to reporting any concerns or suspicions. Employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to raise any issues or suspicions of modern slavery in confidence, without fear of retaliation. Our leadership team pledges to investigate every report promptly and with due seriousness. All concerns are handled sensitively, and any proven violation results in strong remedial action, including notification of relevant authorities where necessary.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness. We remain vigilant to emerging risks and dedicated to strengthening our policies, procedures, and training efforts. Our annual review involves assessing our due diligence processes, staff training programmes, and the overall effectiveness of our anti-slavery practices. Any learnings or new issues identified are promptly incorporated into our procedures.
Our Role as a Trusted Richmond Florist
At Richmond Flowers, we acknowledge that our actions build trust within our community. Upholding robust principles on modern slavery not only reinforces legal compliance but also demonstrates our commitment to ethical standards for the people, households, and businesses we serve. We will continue to champion integrity, transparency, and respect throughout every level of our operations.
