Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Stratford

Tree Surgeons Stratford is committed to conducting business responsibly, ethically, and with zero tolerance for modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in any form. This statement sets out the steps taken by our tree surgery business to prevent, identify, and address risks within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the arboricultural sector can involve seasonal work, subcontracting, and materials sourcing, all of which require careful oversight. Our commitment applies across all activity carried out under the Tree Surgeons Stratford name, including on-site services, procurement, and external partnerships.

As a responsible tree surgeon in Stratford, we expect the highest standards of conduct from employees, contractors, and suppliers. Everyone working with us is required to uphold legal and ethical labour practices, with clear attention to fair pay, voluntary work, and safe conditions. We do not permit any form of coercion, debt bondage, withheld identity documents, or restricted freedom of movement. Any concerns are treated seriously and investigated promptly.

Our governance framework includes regular risk assessment and supplier due diligence. Before engaging a supplier or subcontractor, Tree Surgeons Stratford evaluates their labour practices, ownership structure, and compliance history. Where appropriate, we request written confirmation of their policies on modern slavery, worker welfare, and recruitment standards. We also reserve the right to carry out supplier audits and site checks to verify compliance. These audits may include document reviews, labour practice assessments, and follow-up action plans where improvement is required.

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for any suspected slavery or trafficking. This applies equally to direct employees, agency workers, seasonal staff, and supply chain partners. If any individual fails to meet our standards, we will take decisive action, which may include suspension of work, termination of contracts, or referral to the relevant authorities. Prevention is central to our approach, but we also recognise that vigilance is essential, especially where labour is sourced through multiple tiers of subcontracting.

Training and awareness are important parts of our modern slavery controls. Managers and supervisors are encouraged to recognise warning signs such as unexplained fear, excessive dependency on a third party, unusual control over wages, or workers appearing unable to speak freely. By promoting awareness across the organisation, Tree Surgeons Stratford strengthens its ability to identify concerns early and respond appropriately. This is especially relevant in a tree surgery business where teams may work across different locations and under time-sensitive conditions.

We also provide clear reporting channels so that concerns can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Employees, suppliers, and subcontracted workers are encouraged to report any suspicion of exploitative practice through internal management structures. Reports may be made confidentially, and all concerns are handled with discretion. No one who raises a genuine concern in good faith will suffer disadvantage. Where a report indicates possible criminal activity, we will escalate it immediately and cooperate with appropriate agencies.

Our procurement process is designed to reduce modern slavery risks from the outset. We prefer to work with suppliers who can demonstrate transparent hiring practices, lawful employment arrangements, and ethical sourcing. If a supplier cannot evidence compliance, we will reassess the relationship and may remove them from our approved list. In this way, Tree Surgeons Stratford aims to build a supply chain that reflects our values and supports fair treatment for all workers involved.

Monitoring and review are essential to keeping this statement effective. Senior management reviews key risk indicators, audit results, and incident reports to ensure our controls remain suitable and proportionate. Any emerging risks are addressed through updated procedures, targeted checks, and additional staff awareness measures. This approach helps ensure that Tree Surgeons Stratford remains alert to changes in legislation, market conditions, and labour sourcing patterns.

This modern slavery statement will be reviewed annually to ensure it continues to reflect our operations, risks, and responsibilities. The annual review allows us to assess the effectiveness of our policy, refine supplier audit activity, and strengthen reporting pathways where needed. We are committed to continual improvement and to maintaining an approach that protects human rights throughout the business.

Tree Surgeons Stratford stands firmly against modern slavery and expects the same commitment from everyone connected to our work. Through strict oversight, ethical procurement, supplier audits, confidential reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to ensure that our business remains safe, lawful, and respectful of human dignity. Our commitment is ongoing, and we will continue to strengthen our standards year after year.