Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Stokenewington

Tree Surgeons Stokenewington 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 forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and other forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chain. As a responsible tree surgery provider, we recognise that the risk of modern slavery can exist in many sectors, including forestry, landscaping, transport, equipment supply, and subcontracted services. Our zero-tolerance policy means that any form of slavery or exploitation is wholly unacceptable, and we expect the same commitment from every person and organisation working with us.

We aim to ensure that Tree Surgeons Stokenewington operates in a way that protects workers, promotes ethical employment, and supports fair treatment. This statement applies to all staff, subcontractors, and suppliers engaged in the delivery of our arboricultural services. We expect all parties to comply with applicable laws, maintain accurate employment records, and provide safe, lawful working conditions. Where concerns arise, we act promptly to investigate and address them.

Our approach begins with risk awareness. We assess the nature of each supplier relationship, paying particular attention to high-risk categories such as labour provision, waste disposal, PPE sourcing, and overseas manufacturing. Supplier audits form a key part of this process. These audits may include document checks, site visits, and review of labour practices to confirm that workers are engaged voluntarily, paid fairly, and free from coercion. If any supplier fails to meet our standards, we reserve the right to suspend or end the relationship.

Training and oversight are essential to making our anti-slavery commitments effective. Managers and team leaders are expected to recognise warning signs such as restricted movement, withheld documents, unusual payment arrangements, or workers appearing fearful or controlled. We reinforce these expectations through internal briefings and compliance checks. In addition, our procurement processes require suppliers to confirm that they do not use child labour, trafficked labour, or unlawful recruitment practices.

We also maintain clear reporting channels so that employees, contractors, and suppliers can raise concerns without fear of retaliation. Any suspicion of modern slavery can be reported through internal management channels or to designated safeguarding personnel. Reports are treated seriously, investigated confidentially where possible, and escalated when necessary. Retaliation against whistleblowers is strictly prohibited, and anyone raising concerns in good faith will be supported throughout the process.

The modern slavery risks associated with tree surgery can be hidden within complex supply chains and subcontracting arrangements. For that reason, Tree Surgeons Stokenewington carries out due diligence before engagement and periodically thereafter. We ask relevant suppliers to confirm their recruitment methods, worker welfare practices, and ownership of legal documentation. Where improvements are needed, we seek corrective action plans with clear timeframes, rather than relying only on informal assurances.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and operational realities. The review considers audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, and any changes in legislation or business structure. If weaknesses are identified, we update our procedures, strengthen monitoring, and improve training. Annual review is not a formality; it is a core control that helps us improve year after year.

We understand that eliminating modern slavery requires vigilance, accountability, and continuous improvement. Accordingly, our commitments include responsible procurement, proportionate risk assessment, and decisive action when standards are breached. Tree Surgeons Stokenewington will not knowingly work with any individual or business that benefits from exploitation. We prefer long-term partnerships with suppliers who demonstrate respect for human rights and lawful employment.

Through this statement, Tree Surgeons Stokenewington reaffirms its determination to uphold ethical standards across all parts of the business. Our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, reporting channels, and annual review process together create a practical framework for preventing abuse. We will continue to monitor, improve, and enforce these measures so that our operations remain safe, lawful, and respectful to every worker involved.