Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Click to view our statement as a PDF file.

This statement covers Paydens Group Holdings Limited and Sangers (Maidstone) Ltd

Introduction

Paydens Group of Pharmacies is committed to ensuring no slavery or human trafficking within our business or supply chains. This statement sets out the company’s actions to understand all potential modern slavery risks related to its business and to put in place steps that are aimed at ensuring that there is no slavery or human trafficking. This statement relates to actions and activities during the latest financial year.

As part of the healthcare industry, the company recognises that it has a responsibility to take a robust approach to slavery and human trafficking.

The company is committed to preventing slavery and human trafficking in its corporate activities, and to ensuring that its supply chains are free from slavery and human trafficking.

Organisational structure and supply chains

This statement covers the activities of Paydens Group Holdings Limited and Sangers (Maidstone) Ltd.

Paydens Ltd is an independent family-owned company established in 1969. We operate pharmacies across South-East England, with our Head Office based in Maidstone, Kent.

We employ roughly 1800 employees across all of our sites and pride ourselves in having a diverse workforce.

Sangers Ltd is owned by the Paydens group and is a pharmaceutical wholesaler. There are 5,315 lines held in our warehouse, based in Maidstone, Kent, with over 150 employed staff.

Express chemist is part of Paydens Ltd and is an online UK pharmacy which provides quick delivery of the best products at competitive prices. Based in Maidstone, Kent we have become one of the leading online chemists in the UK who also deliver internationally.

Express chemist is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council and is regularly inspected and audited.

The company currently operates in the following countries;

  • United Kingdom

    Our Pharmacies, Head Office, Pharmaceutical Wholesaler and Online chemist are based in South East England.

  • We supply products internationally where we comply with current legislation to approximately 245 countries.

    As a company, we ensure all our suppliers adhere to our ethical standards and core values.

Relevant Policies

The company operates the following policies that describe its approach to the identification of modern slavery risks and steps to be taken to prevent slavery and human trafficking in its operations;

  • Whistleblowing policy

    We encourage all our workers, customers and other business partners to report any concerns related to the direct activities, or the supply chains of, the company. This includes any circumstances that may give rise to an enhanced risk of slavery or human trafficking. The company’s whistleblowing procedures are designed to make it easy for workers to make disclosures, without fear of retaliation.

  • Employee code of conduct

    The company’s code makes it clear to employees the actions and behaviour expected of them when representing the company. We strive to maintain the highest standards of employee conduct and ethical behaviour.

  • Supplier code of conduct

    The company is committed to ensuring that its suppliers adhere to the highest standards of ethics. Suppliers are required to demonstrate that they provide safe working conditions where necessary and act ethically within the law in their use of labour.

  • Recruitment policy

    The company uses only specified, reputable employment agencies to source employment.

Due Diligence and Suppliers

The Company undertakes due diligence when considering taking on new suppliers, and regularly reviews its existing suppliers. The Company’s due diligence and reviews include;

  • Clearly communicating our ethical standards to suppliers
  • Mapping the supply chain broadly to assess product or geographical risks of modern slavery and human trafficking
  • Evaluating the modern slavery and human trafficking risks of each new suppliers
  • Conducting supplier audits

The above relevant policies are applicable to Paydens Group Holdings Limited and Sangers (Maidstone) Ltd.

Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness throughout the business of modern slavery and human trafficking by ensuring the company buyers and Senior Management are aware of the legislation surrounding this Act.

We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and data protection, which is why we have an appointed Clinical Governance Officer. This role is dedicated to overseeing patient safety, and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations, GDPR, legalities, and information governance. Employees are encouraged to reach out directly to the Clinical Governance Officer for support or guidance on any of these topics. Additionally, if there are any concerns, employees have the option to contact this role externally, ensuring that all issues are addressed promptly and appropriately.

John McConville
Director of Pharmacy
Paydens Ltd