Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Hoxton

Tree Surgeons Hoxton is committed to conducting business with integrity, respect, and responsibility. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour within our operations and throughout our supply chains. We recognise that arboricultural work can involve multiple layers of labour, equipment sourcing, subcontracting, and transport, which is why we maintain a clear zero-tolerance policy toward any form of exploitation.

Our Tree Surgeons Hoxton team understands that modern slavery can appear in many forms, including debt bondage, coercion, and deceptive recruitment practices. We therefore apply robust controls across recruitment, onboarding, purchasing, and contractor management. Every worker engaged in our services is expected to be treated fairly, paid appropriately, and given the freedom to leave employment in line with lawful notice requirements. We do not permit the use of forced or trafficked labour in any part of our operations.

We also expect our suppliers and subcontractors to share the same standards. As part of our due diligence process, we conduct supplier audits and periodic checks to assess labour practices, wage compliance, identity documentation, and working conditions. Where risks are identified, Tree Surgeons Hoxton requires corrective action, and where improvement is not possible, the relationship may be paused or ended. This approach helps us maintain ethical standards across the entire arborist supply chain.

Our Policy and Responsibilities

Our zero-tolerance policy is embedded in internal procedures and communicated to managers, supervisors, and procurement staff. We expect all team members to act responsibly when hiring labour, selecting materials, or appointing external partners. In practice, this means checking that wages are lawful, hours are reasonable, and no worker is subjected to threats, withheld documents, or unfair deductions. We also make clear that any breach of this policy is treated as a serious disciplinary matter.

Tree Surgeons Hoxton recognises that prevention is more effective than reaction. For that reason, we conduct risk-based assessments of the areas in which we operate and of the sectors from which we source goods and services. Higher-risk categories may include temporary labour, ground maintenance support, transport services, and imported equipment. By reviewing these risks regularly, we strengthen our ability to identify warning signs early and respond swiftly.

Training is an important part of our anti-slavery approach. Relevant staff are made aware of common indicators such as restricted movement, intimidation, inconsistent pay practices, or workers who appear unable to speak freely about their employment. This awareness supports better decision-making and helps ensure that modern slavery prevention is understood as a shared responsibility rather than a one-time compliance task.

Reporting, Investigation, and Safeguarding

We provide clear reporting channels so that concerns can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Reports may be made through line management, designated safeguarding leads, or formal internal incident procedures. All concerns are taken seriously, logged securely, and reviewed promptly. Where necessary, we will escalate issues to appropriate authorities or specialist support organisations. Confidentiality is respected as far as possible, and individuals who report concerns in good faith are protected from detriment.

Our investigation process is designed to be thorough, fair, and timely. If a concern suggests possible exploitation, we will suspend affected procurement arrangements if needed, preserve relevant records, and assess the situation with urgency. We aim to act in a way that protects vulnerable workers first and foremost. In cases involving suppliers or contractors, Tree Surgeons Hoxton may require documentary evidence, site visits, or independent verification before any further engagement continues.

We also ensure that our anti-slavery measures are reflected in contractual expectations. Suppliers are asked to confirm compliance with applicable labour laws and ethical standards, and they may be required to demonstrate their own controls over recruitment agencies, wage records, and worker welfare. This reinforces a consistent message throughout our operations: exploitation has no place in the business of Tree Surgeons Hoxton.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal and operational changes. The review considers audit outcomes, reported concerns, supplier performance, training participation, and any developments in modern slavery legislation or guidance. If weaknesses are identified, we update procedures, strengthen controls, and refine our due diligence activities accordingly.

The annual review also helps us measure progress over time. We look at whether supplier audits have identified recurring issues, whether reporting channels are being used appropriately, and whether staff understanding has improved. Where further action is needed, Tree Surgeons Hoxton will implement additional safeguards, enhanced monitoring, or revised procurement standards. We believe continuous improvement is essential to maintaining a genuinely ethical and transparent business.

In summary, Tree Surgeons Hoxton is committed to preventing modern slavery in all its forms. Through our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, accessible reporting channels, and annual review process, we aim to uphold dignity, protect vulnerable people, and ensure our services are delivered responsibly. This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to ethical tree surgery and responsible supply chain management.