Modern Slavery Statement — Hedge Trimming Poplar

Hedge Trimming Poplar is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our operations. This statement sets out our approach and the actions we take to ensure a robust zero-tolerance approach to forced labour, exploitation and other forms of modern slavery across our services, including Poplar hedge trimming and wider garden maintenance activities. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights and to be transparent about the steps we take to protect workers in our supply chain.

Our company policy is clear: we operate a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery. This applies to direct employees, contractors and to everyone who supplies goods and services to Hedge-Trimming Poplar. We insist that all partners and subcontractors adhere to our standards, and we expect suppliers to implement safe working conditions, fair pay and freedom of movement for workers.

We document and communicate our commitments through published policies and internal training programmes. These include a code of conduct, supplier standards and a requirement that every contract contains clauses prohibiting forced labour. Our aims are to:

• prevent the recruitment of workers under exploitative conditions;
• ensure transparent pay practices and working hours;
• provide access to grievance mechanisms for all workers.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We carry out risk-based supplier audits and assessments to evaluate labour practices across our supply chain for Poplar hedge trimming services. These supplier audits are a core element of our compliance programme and are scheduled according to the level of risk associated with the supplier's activities, geography and workforce size. Audits combine documentary checks with on-site inspections where feasible.

Our supplier due diligence process includes checks on hiring practices, verification of right-to-work documentation, review of payroll records, and interviews with workers. Where issues are identified, Hedge Trimming Poplar requires corrective action plans with defined timelines and follow-up verification. Persistent non-compliance may result in contract termination.

We also maintain an approved supplier list and require new suppliers to complete a pre-qualification process that screens for modern slavery indicators. Training and capacity building form part of our supplier engagement, helping partner organisations meet the expected labour and human rights standards.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We provide multiple confidential reporting channels for workers, contractors and third parties to raise concerns about modern slavery risks. Reports can be made anonymously and will be treated seriously and investigated promptly. Our internal investigation procedures ensure that allegations are handled impartially and with appropriate protections for whistleblowers.

Hedge Trimming Poplar encourages early reporting and offers support to those affected. We have clear escalation routes and a documented process for investigating reports, assessing harm, and determining remedial actions when required. Our approach emphasises remediation and the restoration of a safe working environment for any impacted individuals.

Monitoring, remediation and continuous improvement are central to our approach. We record all findings from audits and reports, track corrective actions and review outcomes to strengthen prevention. Where exploitation is suspected, we cooperate with relevant authorities and affected parties to secure protections and remedies.

Annual review—Hedge Trimming Poplar conducts an annual review of this modern slavery statement and related policies to assess effectiveness, update risk assessments and embed lessons learned. The review considers audit results, incident reports, stakeholder feedback (excluding testimonials), and changes in legislation or industry practice. Findings are used to refine our training, supplier requirements and monitoring systems.

Our governance framework assigns clear responsibilities for modern slavery compliance across senior management and operational teams to ensure accountability. We publish and communicate progress internally and apply a continuous improvement mindset to reduce risks and protect workers across all activities, including Poplar hedge maintenance and related services.

In summary, Hedge Trimming Poplar is dedicated to the eradication of modern slavery through a zero-tolerance policy, robust supplier audits, accessible reporting channels and a formal annual review cycle. We will continue to strengthen our practices to ensure that human rights are respected throughout our operations and supply chain.