Modern Slavery Statement - Flowers by Patricia
Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
Flowers by Patricia is committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly in all our operations. As a trusted florist serving local households and businesses, we recognise our responsibility to help prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our supply chains and within our own operations. This statement sets out the steps we are taking to identify, mitigate, and address the risks associated with modern slavery.
Our Zero Tolerance Policy
We have a zero tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, human trafficking, and any other form of exploitation. We will not knowingly work with any supplier, contractor, or partner involved in such practices. Any confirmed breach of this policy may result in the termination of commercial relationships, alongside any other appropriate actions.
This commitment is integral to our values and reflects our role as a trusted florist in the community. We expect all individuals and organisations we work with to uphold the same standards and to act with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights.
Supplier Due Diligence and Supply Chain Standards
Modern slavery risks can arise at various points within the floral and gifting supply chain, including the sourcing of flowers, foliage, packaging, accessories, and associated services. To address this, we are strengthening our supplier due diligence processes. We expect suppliers to comply with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights laws and to maintain safe, fair, and respectful working conditions.
Our approach to supplier due diligence includes, where proportionate: requesting confirmation of compliance with modern slavery and human trafficking legislation; assessing suppliers’ policies and practices regarding labour standards; seeking assurances around recruitment practices, working hours, and wage conditions; and reserving the right to suspend or end relationships with suppliers who fail to meet our ethical expectations.
We aim to work collaboratively with suppliers who share our commitment to continuous improvement and transparency in tackling modern slavery risks.
Staff Training and Awareness
We recognise that staff awareness is crucial in identifying and responding to potential indicators of modern slavery. Flowers by Patricia is developing training and guidance for relevant team members so that they understand:
what modern slavery and human trafficking are; how these issues can appear in the floral and wider retail supply chains; the signs that may indicate a concern; and the internal processes for raising and recording any suspicions.
Training will be reviewed periodically and updated to reflect evolving best practice, legislation, and our own experience.
Reporting Channels and Escalation
We encourage anyone working for or with Flowers by Patricia to report any concerns, suspicions, or incidents related to modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns may relate to our own operations, to suppliers, or to third parties connected with our business.
Internal reporting routes are available for staff to raise issues with management in confidence. We will treat all reports seriously, investigate them appropriately, and, where necessary, take action which may include engaging with suppliers, amending processes, or involving relevant authorities. We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
This Modern Slavery Statement is overseen by the management of Flowers by Patricia. We are committed to monitoring the effectiveness of the measures described and to making improvements where needed. Actions may include enhancing supplier checks, updating training, refining reporting procedures, or adjusting our procurement practices.
This statement will be reviewed at least once every year to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with our ethical commitments and legal obligations. Updates will reflect changes in our business, supply chains, and any new risks or best practices identified.
By maintaining this focus, Flowers by Patricia seeks to play a responsible part in the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery, in line with our role as a trusted local florist serving households and businesses in our community.
