Modern Slavery Statement 2024 – Blackfriars Florist
Introduction and Statement of Principles
Blackfriars Florist is dedicated to providing high-quality floral arrangements to households and businesses throughout the Blackfriars community. As a trusted local florist, we acknowledge our duty to act ethically and with integrity in all aspects of our business. We are committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking both within our operations and across our supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement details the measures we take to ensure these abhorrent practices do not form any part of our organisation or those of our suppliers.
Zero Tolerance Policy
Blackfriars Florist maintains a strict zero-tolerance stance against modern slavery and human trafficking. Our policy is unequivocal: we do not, under any circumstances, tolerate any form of forced labour, child labour, servitude, or exploitation associated with our business. All staff, suppliers, and business partners are expected to uphold and promote these fundamental principles.
Supplier Due Diligence
Recognising the global nature of the flower supply chain, we take robust steps to assess and mitigate risks of modern slavery occurring within it. We undertake thorough due diligence before engaging new suppliers and regularly review our existing supply partners. Our process includes evaluating supplier compliance with applicable laws, requesting information regarding their own anti-slavery policies, and requiring contractual assurances of ethical practice. Any supplier found to be in breach of these standards is subject to investigation and potential termination of contract.
Staff Training and Awareness
The prevention of modern slavery depends upon the awareness and vigilance of every team member. Blackfriars Florist provides targeted training to ensure that all staff understand the indicators of modern slavery and know how to respond if concerns arise. Training is refreshed annually and forms part of the induction process for all new employees, ensuring ongoing knowledge and preparedness throughout the company.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
We encourage anyone—employees, suppliers, or members of the public—to report any suspicions or evidence of modern slavery related to our business or supply chains. We offer clear and confidential reporting channels internally and support whistleblowers, ensuring there will be no retaliation for raising genuine concerns. Reports are taken seriously and handled sensitively, with swift action taken where necessary to address and resolve any issues identified.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is not simply a document to be filed—it's a living pledge. Each year, Blackfriars Florist reviews the effectiveness of our actions, policies, and procedures in minimizing modern slavery risks. We seek to continuously improve by learning from latest best practice, legislation, and stakeholder feedback. The results of each annual review are used to inform updates to our policy and the measures we apply in practice.
Our Responsibility to the Community
As a longstanding Blackfriars florist, we are privileged to have the trust of our local customers and business partners. We regard this statement as an extension of our values and our resolve to positively influence our industry and community. We believe that, together, we can contribute to a world free of modern slavery, upholding dignity, fairness, and respect for all.
