Modern Slavery Statement — Hedge Trimming New Cross Commitment
Hedge Trimming New Cross operates with a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking. This statement sets out our commitment to preventing exploitation across our operations and supply chains. We recognise that as a provider of hedge trimming New Cross services and as local New Cross hedge trimming contractors, we have a responsibility to ensure that every worker engaged by our business is treated fairly and lawfully.
Our policy applies to all employees, contractors, sub-contractors and suppliers engaged in Hedge Trimmers New Cross projects and routine maintenance works. We will not tolerate any form of coercion, deceptive recruiting, withholding of wages, confiscation of identity documents or abusive working conditions. By embedding this policy into contracts and procurement processes, we seek to protect vulnerable people and uphold both legal and ethical standards across the borough.
We implement a structured approach to preventing modern slavery risks through proactive supplier due diligence and regular supplier audits. Our supplier audit programme focuses on high-risk service providers and evaluates the following areas:
- Employment records and right to work checks
- Payment practices, wage records and working hours
- Recruitment channels and third-party labour providers
- Health, safety and welfare provisions
Policies, Training and Expectations
We require all suppliers to adhere to our modern slavery standards as a condition of engagement. Staff and operational managers receive mandatory training on recognising signs of exploitation, how to conduct basic risk assessments and the correct use of reporting channels. Our expectations for ethical behaviour are clearly stated in contracts and purchase orders for hedge trimming in New Cross works.
Reporting channels are available for staff, sub-contractors and members of the public to raise concerns. We provide confidential and, where requested, anonymous reporting routes. Reports are investigated promptly and impartially; where evidence indicates modern slavery, we will take corrective and protective action immediately, including referral to the appropriate authorities and support services.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
Our due diligence process combines desktop checks, on-site audits and follow-up reviews. We prioritise suppliers by risk profile and frequency of engagement. Key elements include:
- Contractual clauses requiring compliance with anti-slavery laws;
- Periodic independent audits and unannounced site visits;
- Corrective action plans and requirements for remediation;
- Termination rights where compliance is not achieved.
We adopt a victim-centred approach to any suspected incidents. Where exploitation is suspected, we ensure that affected individuals are treated with dignity and provided with appropriate support. Our response options include suspension of suppliers, referral to specialist support organisations and liaising with enforcement agencies when necessary. These remediation steps are designed to repair harm, prevent recurrence and protect affected workers.
Annual review and governance underpin our approach. The senior management team conducts an annual review of our modern slavery controls, supplier performance and training effectiveness. Findings are used to strengthen policies, re-prioritise audit activity and allocate resources to highest risk areas. The board receives a summary of progress and the statement is updated and approved on at least an annual basis.
In conclusion, Hedge Trimming New Cross is strongly committed to eradicating modern slavery from our operations and supply chains. We will continue to refine our due diligence, increase the reach of supplier audits and promote safe, confidential reporting channels. Through ongoing training, contractual enforcement and an annual review cycle, we will maintain vigilance and take decisive action where risks are identified. This modern slavery statement reflects our continuing commitment to ethical labour practices and responsible procurement across all our hedge trimming and grounds maintenance activities.