Modern Slavery Statement 2024 - Catford Flowers

Our Commitment to Preventing Modern Slavery

Catford Flowers recognises the critical importance of combatting modern slavery, human trafficking, and exploitation in our society today. As a trusted florist in Catford, serving households and businesses across the community, we are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards throughout all areas of our operations and supply chains. We believe it is our responsibility not only to ensure beautiful floral arrangements but also to maintain the dignity, fairness, and safety of everyone involved in our business, from supplier to customer.

Zero Tolerance Policy

Catford Flowers maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking. We are clear that these practices are wholly unacceptable, and will not be tolerated in any aspect of our business or with anyone with whom we work. Our values are built on trust, care, and community—qualities that are fundamentally incompatible with exploitation of any kind.

Supplier Due Diligence

We recognise that the risk of modern slavery can exist at any stage of the supply chain. To address this, Catford Flowers conducts rigorous due diligence before engaging with suppliers. We source our flowers and ancillary goods from reputable, ethical suppliers who share our commitment to fair labour. Our vetting process includes requesting information regarding labour practices and ethical standards, and we regularly review our supplier relationships to ensure ongoing compliance with our values.

If a supplier fails to meet our standards or is found to be engaging in exploitative practices, we will take immediate action, including re-evaluating or terminating the business relationship. We are committed to working only with those who respect human rights and uphold labour standards.

Staff Training

Education is essential to identifying, preventing, and confronting the risk of modern slavery. All staff at Catford Flowers receive regular training to understand what constitutes modern slavery, the risks within the floral industry, and how to spot red flags. Through ongoing development, our team is empowered to act as guardians of ethical standards within the business and when interacting with suppliers and the broader community.

Reporting Channels

We encourage all staff, suppliers, and associated stakeholders to speak up if they suspect any form of modern slavery within our operations or supply chains. Catford Flowers provides confidential channels for reporting such concerns without fear of retaliation. All concerns and disclosures are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and, when necessary, reported to the relevant authorities. Transparent communication is at the core of our ethical approach.

Annual Review

Catford Flowers is dedicated to the continual improvement of our practices. We review this Modern Slavery Statement and our associated policies annually to ensure they remain robust, effective, and reflective of current best practice. Any updates or enhancements will be implemented and communicated as part of our drive towards complete transparency and accountability.

Serving Our Community Responsibly

This Modern Slavery Statement demonstrates our ongoing responsibility to the Catford community. As a local business entrusted by households and commercial clients alike, we are committed to ensuring our flowers are not only beautiful but ethically sourced and sold by an organisation with integrity at its heart. Through vigilance, education, and transparency, Catford Flowers remains steadfast in our mission to help build a fairer, safer society for all.