Modern Slavery Statement — Hedge Trimming Norwood

Hedge Trimming Norwood acknowledges its responsibility to uphold human rights across all operations. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out how our hedge maintenance and hedge trimming in Norwood activities are governed by a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking. We are committed to ensuring that every part of our Norwood hedge trimming supply chain operates ethically and transparently.

Our zero-tolerance policy means that any evidence of slavery, servitude or exploitation within our workforce, contractors or suppliers will lead to immediate investigation and decisive action, including contract termination. All managers and staff involved in hedge services must adhere to this policy and report concerns without delay. We make clear that Hedge Trimming Norwood will not tolerate any form of coerced labour in its operations.

We expect the same high standards from all suppliers involved in hedge trimming services, equipment provision and landscaping support. Our procurement terms explicitly require compliance with anti-slavery laws and ethical labour practices. Contractors engaged for hedge pruning, disposal and related works are contractually obliged to demonstrate fair wages, safe conditions and free consent to work, consistent with our commitment to responsible hedge care services in Norwood.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

To manage risks in our supply chain we carry out targeted due diligence and supplier audits. These activities help identify and mitigate modern slavery risks among providers of plants, tools, waste removal and subcontracted labour. We prioritise audits where there is greater risk based on geography, service type or previous compliance concerns.

Our supplier audit process includes the following steps, which are enforced for key vendors and partners:

• Verification of identity and employment records, ensuring workers have the right to work and are not subject to coercion.
• On-site inspections of working conditions where practicable, with interviews and documentation checks.
• Review of payroll, contracts and recruitment practices to confirm fair pay and voluntary employment.
• Remediation plans where issues are identified, with clear timelines and follow-up audits.

Where suppliers fail to meet required standards, we implement corrective actions and reserve the right to suspend or terminate relationships. These audits are a cornerstone of our approach to maintaining an ethical network of subcontractors for all hedge trimming and landscaping works in the Norwood area.

Reporting Channels, Training and Annual Review

We provide multiple reporting channels for employees, subcontractors and members of the public to raise concerns about potential modern slavery. Reports are handled confidentially and investigated by senior management. Our whistleblowing procedure protects those who report in good faith and ensures swift remedial action where necessary. Training for staff and crew involved in hedge services emphasises recognition of indicators of exploitation and the importance of reporting issues.

Records of audits, actions taken and training attendance are maintained to ensure accountability. We monitor key performance indicators related to supplier compliance and workforce welfare, and we require suppliers to provide periodic attestations of compliance with our standards for hedge maintenance and associated services.

This statement is reviewed at least once every 12 months as part of our annual review process. The review evaluates the effectiveness of our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audit outcomes, reporting mechanisms and training programs. Senior leadership is responsible for oversight, and any significant changes to policy or practice are documented and published in subsequent statements. By integrating these measures into our operations, Hedge Trimming Norwood reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and promoting ethical labour standards across all aspects of hedge trimming, pruning and landscape maintenance.