Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeon Merton

Tree Surgeon Merton is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the measures we take to prevent slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the tree surgery sector can involve multiple contractors, seasonal labour, and external suppliers, which makes vigilance essential. For that reason, we maintain a clear zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery and require the same standard from those who work with us.

Our commitment applies to every part of the business, including arboricultural services, equipment procurement, waste handling, transport, and subcontracted work. We expect all employees, agency workers, and suppliers connected with Tree Surgeon Merton to act ethically and comply with applicable laws. Any indication of coercion, passport retention, debt bondage, unlawful wage deductions, or unsafe working conditions is treated as a serious concern and investigated promptly.

We understand that prevention is more effective than response alone, so we assess modern slavery risks at the point of onboarding and throughout the business relationship. This includes reviewing supplier origin, labour practices, and subcontracting arrangements. Where risks are identified, we may request further documentation, enhanced assurances, or corrective action before work continues.

Supplier oversight is a key part of our approach. We carry out supplier audits proportionate to risk, using document checks, site-based reviews, and compliance questionnaires where appropriate. These audits help us confirm that wages, working hours, identity documents, and employment terms are managed lawfully. If a supplier cannot demonstrate acceptable standards, we will pause or end the relationship until issues are resolved. Repeated or severe breaches may lead to immediate termination.

We also expect suppliers to cascade these standards to their own subcontractors and labour providers. This is particularly important in tree surgeon work, where temporary labour or specialist support may be used during busy periods. Every contractor must be able to show that workers are engaged voluntarily, are of legal working age, and are not subjected to threats, intimidation, or exploitative payment arrangements.

Training and awareness are central to our policy. Managers and supervisors receive guidance on identifying warning signs such as restricted movement, unusual dependence on one individual, poor accommodation, or reluctance to speak freely. We also make clear that modern slavery may appear in subtle forms, including recruitment fees passed to workers or hidden coercion within subcontracted supply chains. By keeping awareness high, Tree Surgeon Merton aims to reduce risk before it becomes harm.

Reporting channels are available to encourage prompt disclosure of concerns. Employees and workers can report suspected issues internally through management, and concerns may be raised discreetly without fear of retaliation. We treat all reports seriously, investigate them carefully, and preserve confidentiality wherever possible. Victim-centred handling is essential, so anyone raising a concern is supported and protected from disadvantage for speaking up.

Our reporting process includes documenting the concern, assessing immediate safety risks, and taking action where needed to protect potentially affected individuals. If a case indicates possible criminal activity, we will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities and other appropriate organisations. In every case, the priority is to stop harm, secure evidence, and ensure ethical outcomes.

We also keep records of due diligence, audit findings, corrective actions, and training activity. These records help us monitor improvement over time and identify trends that may require stronger controls. Through this structured approach, Tree Surgeon Merton works to ensure that responsibility for preventing modern slavery is embedded across the business rather than treated as a one-off exercise.

This statement is reviewed annually to confirm that it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with our operations. The review considers changes in legislation, supplier risk, working practices, and audit outcomes. Where improvements are needed, we update our controls, training, and monitoring procedures accordingly. The annual review also helps us strengthen accountability and ensure that our standards remain practical and robust.

Tree Surgeon Merton believes that maintaining ethical labour practices is part of delivering a responsible service. Our customers, suppliers, and team members can trust that we will act decisively where there is any sign of exploitation. We will continue to improve our safeguards, deepen due diligence, and uphold our zero-tolerance policy in every area of the business.

By setting clear expectations, monitoring suppliers, encouraging reporting, and reviewing performance each year, Tree Surgeon Merton demonstrates its continuing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting human dignity throughout our operations and supply chain.