Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Stockwell

Tree Surgeons Stockwell is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out our zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour, and any other exploitative practices within our operations or supply chains. We recognise that tree surgery services, like many outdoor and labour-intensive industries, may involve multiple suppliers, contractors, and seasonal workers. For that reason, we maintain clear standards to ensure that every person involved in our work is treated lawfully and ethically.

Our approach applies to all aspects of the business, from recruitment and procurement to subcontracting and site delivery. We expect everyone acting on behalf of Tree Surgeons Stockwell to uphold the same principles. This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to responsible business conduct and our duty to identify, prevent, and address any risk of exploitation.

We understand that vigilance is essential. Even where risk appears low, we actively monitor our activities and relationships to reduce the chance that modern slavery could exist unnoticed. By embedding ethical standards into daily practice, the business aims to protect workers and support a fairer supply chain.

Our zero-tolerance policy means that any form of modern slavery is unacceptable, whether found within our own workforce or among suppliers, subcontractors, or labour providers. No employee, contractor, or partner may engage in practices that abuse vulnerability, restrict freedom of movement, withhold identity documents, or use intimidation to control workers. Any credible concern is treated seriously and investigated promptly. Where necessary, we will suspend or end commercial relationships that fail to meet our standards.

To reduce risk, we carry out supplier due diligence before agreements are made and continue monitoring throughout the relationship. This includes reviewing the nature of the service provided, the location of work, labour arrangements, and known human rights risks. Where appropriate, supplier audits are conducted to check compliance with employment law, wage practices, working hours, and safe working conditions. These audits may involve document checks, site visits, and verification of worker status.

We also expect suppliers to maintain accurate records and demonstrate that their own supply chains are free from exploitation. If gaps or concerns are identified, we require corrective action within an agreed timeframe. Repeated non-compliance may result in removal from our approved supplier base. This control process helps ensure that our modern slavery safeguards remain practical, proportionate, and effective.

Training and awareness are key parts of our prevention strategy. Managers and relevant team members are encouraged to recognise warning signs such as unusual dependency on a supervisor, signs of coercion, limited personal freedom, or unexplained retention of documents. We promote a culture in which ethical concerns are taken seriously and reported without delay. This is particularly important in operational environments where workers may be employed through layered contracting arrangements.

We provide clear reporting channels so concerns can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Reports may be made through internal management routes, directly to senior leadership, or through designated safeguarding processes. Concerns can be raised anonymously where possible, and all reports are reviewed confidentially. Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith is not tolerated. Every report is assessed, recorded, and followed up with appropriate action.

When a concern is substantiated, our response may include investigation, worker support, contract review, escalation to relevant authorities, or termination of the relationship involved. We also review the root cause of any incident to prevent recurrence. This helps us strengthen our controls and improve our approach to safeguarding human rights across the business.

This statement is supported by an annual review process to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and effective. Each year, Tree Surgeons Stockwell reviews its policies, supplier controls, reporting mechanisms, and training needs to identify opportunities for improvement. The review considers changes in legislation, industry risks, business structure, and supply chain activity. Where new risks are identified, further measures are introduced without delay.

The annual review also evaluates whether our zero-tolerance policy is being consistently applied and whether supplier audits are delivering meaningful oversight. If required, we update our procedures, refresh staff guidance, and strengthen compliance checks. This continuous improvement approach is central to our long-term commitment to ethical business practices.

Tree Surgeons Stockwell believes that preventing modern slavery is not a one-time exercise but a continuing responsibility. By combining strong policies, supplier audits, reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to maintain a workplace and supply chain built on dignity, transparency, and respect. We will continue to act decisively wherever risks arise and to uphold the highest standards in every part of our operations.