Labour Standards & Ethical Trading Policy

Gailarde Ltd is a trusted manufacturer and supplier of bedding, curtains, pillows, duvets, and associated items across the UK. We are committed to upholding the highest ethical and labour standards throughout our operations and supply chain. This document outlines our policy, aligned with legal requirements and ethical practices, and approved by our Directors.

Scope of the Policy

This policy ensures that Gailarde Ltd complies with national and international labour standards, including the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and Labour Standards Assurance System (LSAS Level 3). We aim to operate ethically and responsibly, ensuring fair treatment of employees, suppliers, and communities impacted by our operations.

Commitments and Minimum Labour Standards

Gailarde Ltd is dedicated to:

• Ensuring all products are ethically sourced and free from modern slavery, forced labour, or child labour.
• Promoting safe and healthy working conditions, fair remuneration, and non-discriminatory practices.
• Regularly reviewing and improving our policies to reflect legal changes and best practices.

Key Labour Standards:

1. Child Labour

   • No use of child labour.
   • Compliance with minimum working age laws both in the UK and internationally.
   • Work experience students are given age-appropriate roles, and risk assessments are conducted.

2. Forced or Compulsory Labour

   • No forced, bonded, or involuntary labour.
   • Employees are free to leave employment with reasonable notice.
   • International suppliers must ensure no forced labour in their operations.

3. Health and Safety

   • A safe and healthy workplace is provided, with annual reviews and training.
   • Employees have access to sanitary facilities and drinking water.
   • Suppliers must meet basic legal health and safety requirements, monitored through audits.

4. Freedom of Association

   • Employees’ rights to form or join trade unions are respected, in line with UK and international labour laws.

5. Non-Discrimination

   • No discrimination in hiring, wages, promotions, or training based on race, gender, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
   • Policies are clearly communicated to all staff and suppliers.

6. Disciplinary Practices

   • Employees are treated with dignity and respect.
   • No corporal punishment, mental or physical bullying, or verbal abuse is tolerated.
   • Suppliers must adhere to the same standards.

7. Working Hours

   • Compliance with UK and international laws on working hours and overtime.
   • Normal working hours do not exceed 48 hours per week, with voluntary overtime capped at 12 hours.

8. Remuneration

   • Wages meet or exceed national minimums, with clear terms provided to employees.
   • No unlawful deductions from wages.

Ethical Trading Practices

We share responsibility with our suppliers to source products ethically, ensuring that workers are treated fairly and work in safe conditions.

• Traceability and Cotton Ethical Policy

  • All cotton is traceable, from seed to product.
  • No sourcing from countries using forced or child labour, such as Uzbekistan or Turkmenistan.

• Supplier Accountability

  • Annual audits and questionnaires assess compliance with labour and quality standards.
  • Suppliers must rectify non-conformities within two weeks, or trading ceases.
  • Subcontracting without approval is prohibited

• Modern Slavery Prevention

  • Zero tolerance for slavery, human trafficking, or forced labour.
  • Suppliers must implement systems to ensure their supply chain is free from these abuses.

Policy Implementation and Monitoring

• Training and Awareness

  • All staff are trained on labour standards and ethical practices.
  • Suppliers are informed of our policies and are expected to comply with them.

• Reporting and Whistleblowing

  • Staff can report concerns directly to management or via the confidential whistleblowing process.
  • Whistleblowers are protected from retaliation.

• Continuous Improvement

  • Policies are reviewed annually or following legislative updates.
  • Labour standards are discussed at management meetings to ensure they remain fit for purpose.

Governance and Responsibility

Our Company Director and Head of Sales and Sustainability oversee compliance with this policy. Senior management provides resources to maintain effective labour standards assurance and regularly monitors implementation.

Transparency and Accountability

This policy is shared with all employees, suppliers, customers, and stakeholders. Any breaches are addressed promptly to uphold the integrity of Gailarde Ltd’s operations and reputation.

For further details, enquiries, or to report concerns, contact:
Richard Roston, Chairman
Email: office@gailarde.com
Phone: +44 2089 052 776