Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Lee

Tree Surgeons Lee is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitation within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that tree surgery, arboricultural services, and related procurement activities must be managed with care to avoid any risk of abuse.

Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every level of the organisation. We do not accept modern slavery in any form and expect the same commitment from all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers. This policy is supported by clear procedures, regular awareness checks, and decision-making that prioritises dignity, safety, and lawful employment practices.

We take a risk-based approach to identifying and addressing potential concerns. This includes assessing labour practices, recruitment methods, right-to-work controls, wage compliance, and subcontracting arrangements. Any indicators of coercion, debt bondage, document retention, or threats are treated seriously and investigated without delay.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Supplier relationships are a key area of focus for Tree Surgeons Lee. Before engaging new suppliers, we review their labour standards, ethical policies, and compliance history. Where appropriate, we require confirmation that they operate in line with applicable laws and uphold fair treatment for workers. High-risk suppliers may be subject to enhanced checks.

We carry out supplier audits on a planned and risk-led basis. These audits may involve document reviews, worker welfare checks, and verification of payroll and subcontracting records. If issues are found, we expect prompt corrective action and reserve the right to suspend or terminate relationships where there is failure to improve.

Our procurement team is trained to identify warning signs, such as unusual wage deductions, restricted movement, or the use of unverified labour providers. We also encourage suppliers to maintain their own internal controls and to cascade ethical standards throughout their supply networks. This helps ensure that our tree surgeons and arboricultural services are supported by transparent and lawful sourcing.

Reporting Channels and Protection

All workers, suppliers, and other relevant parties are encouraged to report concerns relating to modern slavery, exploitation, or unsafe labour practices. Reports may be made through internal management routes or to the designated safeguarding lead, depending on the nature of the concern. We aim to ensure that concerns are handled promptly, confidentially, and with appropriate escalation.

We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Where a report is made, the issue will be assessed, recorded, and investigated in a proportionate manner. If required, we will involve specialist support, legal advisers, or external agencies to protect affected individuals and strengthen our response.

All staff receive awareness information appropriate to their role, including how to recognise potential signs of modern slavery. This supports a culture in which issues can be identified early and addressed responsibly. Our commitment extends across recruitment, labour allocation, supplier selection, and the ongoing management of our tree surgery operations.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

Tree Surgeons Lee reviews this statement annually to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with legal obligations and business practices. The review considers audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, and any developments that may affect our risk profile.

Following each review, we update our controls where needed and strengthen training, monitoring, or supplier engagement actions. We believe that continuous improvement is essential to reducing risk and maintaining ethical standards across our work.

This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to responsible practice and respect for human rights. Tree Surgeons Lee will continue to apply a firm stance against exploitation and to promote fairness throughout every aspect of our business and supply chain.