Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Lewisham

Tree Surgeons Lewisham is committed to conducting every aspect of its work with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. We recognise that modern slavery, including forced labour, debt bondage, child labour, and human trafficking, remains a serious issue in UK supply chains and wider society. This statement sets out the steps taken by our arboricultural business to prevent, detect, and respond to any risk of exploitation in our operations and procurement practices.

Our zero-tolerance policy applies across all business activities. We do not tolerate any form of modern slavery, abuse, or coercion, whether in direct employment, subcontracted work, or the sourcing of materials and equipment. All team members are expected to act ethically and to escalate concerns without delay if they suspect unlawful labour practices. This commitment is embedded in our policies, induction processes, and decision-making standards.

We also expect the same standards from our suppliers, subcontractors, and service partners. Tree Surgeons Lewisham will not knowingly work with any organisation that fails to meet legal and ethical labour requirements. Procurement decisions are informed by risk-based checks, written declarations, and an assessment of whether a supplier operates with lawful recruitment, fair pay, and safe working conditions.

To strengthen oversight, we carry out supplier audits where appropriate. These audits may include reviews of employment documentation, right-to-work checks, wage practices, subcontracting arrangements, and site welfare standards. When a risk is identified, we require corrective action and, if necessary, suspend or end the relationship. This approach helps ensure that tree surgery services in Lewisham are delivered through responsible and lawful supply chains.

Our people are trained to recognise indicators of exploitation, such as restricted movement, unexplained injuries, withholding of pay, or individuals appearing fearful or unable to speak freely. Managers are encouraged to remain vigilant when visiting sites, engaging subcontractors, or reviewing new labour sources. Awareness is essential, because modern slavery can exist in hidden forms and may affect workers at multiple points in the supply chain.

We maintain clear reporting channels so that concerns can be raised safely and promptly. Employees, contractors, and suppliers are encouraged to report suspicions through internal management routes and formal grievance procedures. Reports are treated seriously, handled confidentially where possible, and investigated without retaliation. Any verified concern is escalated to senior leadership and addressed in line with legal and ethical obligations.

Tree Surgeons Lewisham also monitors the risk profile of its business relationships by considering geography, sector, labour model, and the nature of the work being undertaken. We understand that tree care, landscaping, transport, and related services may involve temporary labour or layered subcontracting, which can increase vulnerability to exploitation. For that reason, our due diligence is proportionate, documented, and reviewed as circumstances change.

We require suppliers to confirm that they comply with applicable employment law, immigration rules, and health and safety standards. Where reasonable, we request evidence of policies, worker onboarding processes, and training arrangements. If concerns arise, we work with suppliers to improve practice, but we reserve the right to terminate relationships where ethical standards are not met. Our objective is not only compliance, but a genuinely fair and responsible operating model.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with legal expectations. The annual review considers audit findings, reported concerns, corrective actions, training needs, and changes in supply chain risk. Senior management approves any updates, demonstrating ongoing accountability and continual improvement. Through this process, Lewisham tree surgeons reinforce a culture in which dignity, legality, and responsibility are non-negotiable.