Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Sutton

Tree Surgeons Sutton is committed to operating with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights in every part of our business. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that modern slavery can affect any industry, including arboriculture, landscaping, transport, and procurement-related services, and we take our responsibilities seriously. Our zero-tolerance approach applies to all employees, subcontractors, suppliers, and other business partners.

We expect everyone connected with Tree Surgeons Sutton to act ethically and lawfully. Any breach of this policy may lead to termination of contracts, suspension of work, or referral to the relevant authorities where appropriate. We are committed to ensuring that the work carried out under the Tree Surgeons Sutton name reflects dignity, transparency, and compliance with the law. This statement is supported by internal policies, training, and ongoing review processes designed to reduce risk and strengthen accountability.

Our business model relies on trusted suppliers and specialist partners, including equipment providers, waste carriers, transport services, and subcontracted arborists. Because of this, supplier due diligence is an essential part of our approach. We assess new and existing suppliers using risk-based checks that consider location, labour practices, and the nature of services provided. Where concerns arise, we request clarification, additional evidence, or corrective action before continuing the relationship.

Our Commitment and Controls

Tree Surgeons Sutton maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery in all forms. We do not knowingly work with any person or organisation involved in exploitative labour practices. To support this commitment, managers are responsible for monitoring recruitment, site labour arrangements, and subcontracted work to ensure compliance. We also encourage fair pay, safe working conditions, and clear employment terms for everyone engaged in our operations.

Supplier audits form an important part of our control framework. Depending on the level of risk, audits may include document checks, confirmation of right-to-work procedures, review of employment records, and assessment of labour agency arrangements. Higher-risk suppliers may be reviewed more frequently, while lower-risk partners are monitored through periodic reassessment. If a supplier fails to meet our expectations, we will seek corrective action promptly and may end the relationship if concerns are not resolved.

We also ensure that procurement decisions are informed by ethical standards, not just cost or convenience. Tree Surgeon Sutton teams are trained to recognise warning signs such as unclear payroll practices, excessive control over workers, withheld documents, or signs of coercion. By keeping awareness high, we reduce the chance that exploitative practices enter our operations or supply chain.

Reporting, Investigation, and Review

Anyone who suspects modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to Tree Surgeons Sutton is encouraged to report it immediately. Reporting channels include line management, senior leadership, and our internal safeguarding process. Concerns are handled sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, and we investigate all reports promptly and thoroughly.

Where a report indicates possible exploitation, we will take immediate action to protect affected individuals and preserve relevant evidence. This may involve stopping work, escalating the matter internally, reviewing supplier records, or contacting enforcement bodies as required. Our goal is not only compliance, but prevention: we want to create an environment in which unethical behaviour is difficult to hide and quick to address.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with legal obligations and operational changes. The annual review considers audit findings, supplier performance, incident reports, training needs, and any new risks affecting the arboriculture sector. Improvements are documented and embedded into future practice so that Tree Surgeons Sutton continues to strengthen its response to modern slavery year after year.