Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Highbury

Tree Surgeons Highbury is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the actions we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, child labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. As a responsible arboricultural business, we recognise that risks can exist in materials sourcing, subcontracting, transport, and equipment procurement. Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every area of the business and to every person working on our behalf.

We expect all employees, contractors, and suppliers associated with Tree Surgeons in Highbury to uphold the highest ethical standards. No form of modern slavery is acceptable, and any breach of this principle may lead to immediate termination of employment or business relationships. We maintain clear internal procedures to help identify and respond to risks, supported by management oversight and documented decision-making. Our objective is to ensure that every part of our work, from site operations to external procurement, remains free from exploitation.

We assess risk by considering the nature of the service, the location of suppliers, and the level of labour dependency involved. Particular attention is given to high-risk categories such as subcontracted labour, waste handling, vehicle support, and imported goods. Where concerns arise, we investigate promptly and take corrective action. The business also provides training so that staff involved in purchasing, supervision, and compliance understand how to recognise warning signs and apply the right escalation process.

Our due diligence framework includes supplier audits and ongoing review of selected partners. These audits may involve assessment of labour practices, contractual terms, worker welfare controls, and evidence of lawful employment. Suppliers are required to confirm that they comply with all relevant anti-slavery laws and that they communicate the same expectations to their own supply chains. If a supplier cannot demonstrate adequate controls, we reserve the right to suspend orders, request improvement plans, or end the relationship.

At Tree Surgeons Highbury, we understand that prevention is more effective when expectations are clear from the start. Therefore, we include modern slavery clauses in purchasing arrangements where appropriate, and we monitor compliance throughout the relationship. Our procurement process is designed to favour reputable businesses that share our values and can demonstrate responsible labour management. In this way, the statement supports both ethical conduct and resilient supply chain governance.

Reporting concerns is a vital part of our approach. Employees and workers are encouraged to raise any suspicion of modern slavery, unsafe recruitment practices, debt bondage, document retention, or coercion. Reports can be made through internal management channels, and all concerns are treated seriously, confidentially, and without retaliation. We encourage early reporting because it allows issues to be addressed before harm escalates. Any allegation is reviewed carefully, recorded, and investigated in line with our internal procedures.

We also expect a culture of openness across the business. Anyone who raises a concern in good faith will be supported, and no one should fear disadvantage for speaking up. Managers are responsible for ensuring that concerns are escalated quickly, that evidence is preserved, and that appropriate corrective steps are taken. Where necessary, we may engage specialist support to help assess complex cases or improve risk controls.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with current legal and operational requirements. The annual review considers changes in legislation, findings from supplier audits, internal incidents, training completion, and emerging risks within the arboriculture sector. Where improvements are identified, we update policies, strengthen controls, and refresh staff guidance. This ongoing review process helps Tree Surgeons Highbury maintain a robust and proactive response to modern slavery risks.

By embedding accountability, vigilance, and ethical practice into our operations, Tree Surgeons Highbury aims to protect workers, uphold dignity, and contribute to a supply chain built on trust and legality. This statement reflects our continuing commitment to responsible trading and our determination to prevent modern slavery in all its forms.