Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Putney

At Tree Surgeons Putney, we are committed to operating with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking within our business and supply chain. We recognise that arboricultural services rely on skilled people, ethical suppliers, and responsible working practices, and we take our duty seriously.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery. This applies to our employees, subcontractors, labour providers, and suppliers. No individual associated with Tree Surgeons Putney may be coerced, deceived, exploited, or forced to work against their will. We expect the same standards from every business partner, and we will not knowingly engage with any party that fails to uphold them. Our approach is based on prevention, vigilance, and swift action where concerns arise.

As part of our commitment, we require fair recruitment practices, lawful pay arrangements, and safe working conditions. We also pay attention to indicators such as withheld documents, excessive working hours, intimidation, or restricted movement. If any concern is identified, it is treated with seriousness and investigated promptly. We believe ethical tree care must be supported by ethical employment.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We apply proportionate due diligence to suppliers and contractors used by Tree Surgeons Putney. This includes reviewing modern slavery controls, employment practices, and compliance with labour laws. Where appropriate, we carry out supplier audits to assess risk and verify that working conditions meet expected standards. Higher-risk relationships may be reviewed more frequently, especially where labour is sourced through intermediaries or where work is carried out in sectors known to present vulnerability.

Our procurement process encourages responsible selection and ongoing monitoring. Suppliers may be asked to confirm their own anti-slavery policies, training, and reporting processes. If a supplier cannot demonstrate acceptable controls, we may suspend orders, request corrective action, or end the relationship. We believe that prevention is best achieved through careful partnership choices and regular oversight.

We also expect contractors to pass these standards through their own supply chains. This helps create a wider culture of accountability and reduces the risk of hidden exploitation. Our stance is clear: commercial efficiency must never come at the expense of human dignity.

Reporting Channels and Safeguarding Concerns

We encourage all workers, suppliers, and associates to report concerns without fear of retaliation. Reports may relate to suspicious recruitment practices, unsafe living or working conditions, unpaid wages, restrictions on freedom, or any other sign of exploitation. Concerns are reviewed confidentially and handled sensitively. We support a culture in which speaking up is seen as a responsibility, not a risk.

Where a concern is raised, it is escalated through internal management procedures and investigated with urgency. If necessary, we will cooperate with relevant external authorities and take steps to protect any potentially affected individuals. The wellbeing of people involved in our tree surgery services remains a priority in all decisions.

We also promote awareness among staff so that early warning signs are better understood. This includes recognising unusual control over workers, lack of personal freedom, and unexplained dependence on third parties. By maintaining clear reporting channels, we strengthen our ability to identify and address abuse at the earliest possible stage.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legal and ethical expectations. Each review considers risk areas, supplier performance, internal procedures, and any incidents or concerns raised during the year. Findings are used to improve our training, strengthen due diligence, and refine monitoring processes across the business.

Our Ongoing Commitment

Tree Surgeons Putney is dedicated to continuous improvement and responsible business conduct. We understand that modern slavery can exist in complex supply chains, so our response must be active, practical, and consistent. Through our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, clear reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to maintain a workplace and supply network built on fairness, respect, and accountability.