Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Hackbridge

Tree Surgeons Hackbridge is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that arboricultural work can involve multiple contractors, seasonal labour, and specialist suppliers, which is why our approach is built on vigilance, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every part of the business. We do not accept any form of exploitation, coercion, debt bondage, child labour, or unlawful restriction of movement. All staff, subcontractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold the same standards. Any breach of this policy may result in immediate termination of contracts, removal from approved supplier lists, and reporting to the appropriate authorities where required.

We communicate our expectations clearly at the start of every commercial relationship. New suppliers and partners are screened for compliance with labour, wage, and identity verification requirements, and we ask them to confirm that their workforce is employed lawfully and voluntarily. Where risks are identified, we require corrective action plans and may suspend trading until concerns are resolved. This helps Tree Surgeons Hackbridge maintain a responsible and ethical supply chain.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Regular supplier audits are a central part of our prevention strategy. These reviews may include document checks, worker interviews, site assessments, and verification of subcontracting arrangements. We focus on high-risk areas such as labour provision, equipment sourcing, transport, and outsourced services. If a supplier cannot demonstrate adequate safeguards against modern slavery, we will reconsider the relationship and seek alternative arrangements.

Our procurement process also includes monitoring for warning signs such as unexplained wage deductions, excessive working hours, retention of passports, poor record keeping, or reluctance to allow independent checks. Team leaders and managers are trained to identify these indicators and escalate concerns immediately. We believe that strong oversight across the arboriculture sector is essential to protecting vulnerable workers and supporting ethical operations.

Reporting channels are available to ensure concerns can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Employees, contractors, and external stakeholders may report suspected issues through internal management routes or confidential whistleblowing procedures. Reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled with sensitivity. No one will suffer disadvantage for raising a genuine concern in good faith, and we support a culture where speaking up is encouraged.

Training, Monitoring, and Accountability

Training is provided to relevant staff so they understand what modern slavery is, how to spot risks, and what action to take if something seems wrong. This includes awareness of recruitment risks, labour exploitation, and responsible subcontractor management. Senior leadership is responsible for overseeing compliance, allocating resources, and ensuring that anti-slavery controls remain effective throughout the business.

We also maintain records of due diligence checks, supplier reviews, and corrective actions. These records allow us to monitor patterns over time and identify areas where additional safeguards may be needed. By combining practical oversight with clear standards, Tree Surgeons Hackbridge aims to uphold dignity, fairness, and lawful working conditions across all activities connected to our trade.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and operational changes. The review considers audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, training needs, and any emerging risks within the wider industry. Where improvements are needed, we update our controls and strengthen our processes accordingly. Tree Surgeons Hackbridge remains committed to preventing modern slavery and promoting responsible business conduct in every part of its work.