Modern Slavery Statement — Hedge Trimming Kingston Commitment

Hedge Trimming Kingston is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms across our operations and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach and reflects a clear zero-tolerance policy towards forced labour, servitude and any exploitative practices. As a local provider of hedge trimming in Kingston and surrounding areas, we understand our responsibility to act decisively and transparently to protect workers, contractors and communities associated with Kingston hedge trimming services.

Our policy applies to all employees, temporary staff and contractors engaged by Hedge-Trimming Kingston, and to any third-party suppliers or subcontractors operating on our behalf. We require everyone to adhere to the principles of fairness, dignity and lawful employment. We will not tolerate any form of modern slavery and will take prompt action where concerns arise, including termination of relationships and referral to authorities where appropriate.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We conduct systematic supplier audits as part of our purchasing and procurement practices. Our approach to supplier audits for hedge trimming suppliers includes:

• Pre-engagement screening — verification of legal status, worker contracts and identity checks;
• On-site audits — periodic visits to validate working conditions, hours and wage compliance;
• Risk-based assessments — focusing on areas of greatest vulnerability, such as seasonal labour and subcontracted teams.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Hedge Trimming Kingston maintains clear and accessible reporting channels so concerns about suspected exploitation can be raised safely. Our reporting channels include a confidential internal hotline, an anonymous reporting form and escalation paths to senior management. We ensure reports are handled sensitively and promptly, and we protect whistleblowers from retaliation. The reporting process is supported by training and clear communication to all staff and contractors.

To encourage transparency, we outline the following practical steps for reporting within our Kingston hedge trimming operations:

• Raise concerns directly to a line manager who has been trained to respond and record incidents;
• Use anonymous channels where available for those who fear identification;
• Escalate serious breaches to senior leadership for immediate investigation and remedial action.

Each report will be investigated thoroughly and confidentially. If evidence of modern slavery is found in any part of our supply chain, our zero-tolerance policy ensures corrective action, contractual sanctions and ongoing monitoring until risks are mitigated.

Our due diligence extends beyond audits and reporting: we incorporate modern slavery risk considerations into supplier contracts, procurement terms and routine performance reviews. We provide training to staff involved in procurement, contract management and on-site supervision to help them recognise indicators of exploitation. Kingston hedge trimming teams are briefed on safe recruitment practices and the importance of verifying that workers have freedom of movement, correct documentation and receive lawful pay.

We also maintain a programme of continuous improvement. Supplier corrective action plans are monitored, and we prioritize relationships with suppliers who share our commitment. Where necessary, we will terminate contracts with suppliers who repeatedly fail to meet our standards. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of exploitation entering our operations or those of subcontractors used for hedge-trimming Kingston services.

Finally, Hedge Trimming Kingston conducts an annual review of this Modern Slavery Statement and our related policies. The annual review assesses the effectiveness of supplier audits, the responsiveness of reporting channels and the impact of training and due diligence measures. Findings from the review inform policy updates, resource allocation and improvements to our compliance programme. We will continue to report publicly on progress and refine our strategies to prevent modern slavery in all aspects of our hedge trimming and grounds maintenance activities.