Modern Slavery Statement for Tree Surgeons Heston

Tree Surgeons Heston is committed to conducting all aspects of its business with integrity, responsibility, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps taken to reduce the risk of forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and other forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the arboricultural sector may involve multiple contractors, seasonal labour, transport arrangements, and equipment suppliers, which makes vigilance essential.

Our position is clear: we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery in any form. This applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, and third-party suppliers supporting Tree Surgeons Heston. We expect every person and organisation associated with our business to uphold lawful, ethical, and fair working practices. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in immediate suspension of the business relationship while concerns are investigated.

We are committed to ensuring that our arborist operations do not contribute to exploitation at any stage. This means checking employment practices, confirming the right to work where legally required, and promoting safe, lawful conditions across our workforce. We also encourage transparent working arrangements so that workers understand their roles, pay, and responsibilities. By taking these steps, Tree Surgeons Heston aims to protect vulnerable individuals and support ethical standards throughout the tree surgery industry.

Our supply chain due diligence includes supplier audits and proportionate risk assessments. We evaluate higher-risk areas such as recruitment, subcontracting, equipment sourcing, and waste disposal services. Where needed, we request written confirmations of compliance, inspect records, and review working conditions. Suppliers are expected to demonstrate that they do not use child labour, coercive recruitment fees, withheld wages, or any other abusive practice. If a supplier cannot meet our standards, we will require corrective action or end the relationship.

To strengthen oversight, Tree Surgeons Heston reviews the behaviour and performance of key suppliers on an ongoing basis. Audits may include document checks, site visits where appropriate, and assessments of labour management processes. We also look for warning signs such as unexplained staff turnover, inconsistent payroll information, or workers appearing unable to speak freely. Preventing modern slavery is not a one-time exercise; it is a continuous responsibility embedded in procurement and operations.

Training and awareness are also central to our approach. Relevant team members receive guidance on recognising risks, responding to concerns, and escalating issues quickly. Managers are expected to maintain a culture in which concerns can be raised without fear. This approach supports the wider mission of Tree Surgeons Heston to operate ethically while delivering professional arboricultural services. We believe that informed people are better able to identify hidden exploitation and act before harm escalates.

We provide clear reporting channels so that concerns can be raised safely and promptly. Employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders may report suspected modern slavery or unethical labour practices through internal management routes, safeguarding channels, or confidential reporting procedures. Reports are handled seriously, assessed promptly, and investigated in line with legal and organisational requirements. Where necessary, we will cooperate with relevant authorities and take immediate protective action.

This statement also reflects our commitment to continuous improvement. Tree Surgeons Heston recognises that risks can change as our business grows or as supply chains evolve. For that reason, we monitor emerging risks, review supplier standards, and update our controls where needed. If a concern is identified, we investigate the facts, support affected individuals where appropriate, and take steps to prevent recurrence. Our ethical expectations apply equally to direct staff and to any outsourced service providers.

This modern slavery statement will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current law and best practice. Each annual review considers risk exposure, audit findings, incident reports, supplier performance, and improvements made during the year. By keeping the statement under regular review, Tree Surgeons Heston reinforces its commitment to responsible business conduct, fair treatment, and the prevention of exploitation across all areas of work.