Modern Slavery Statement — Hedge Trimming Blackfriars

Hedge Trimming Blackfriars (also described throughout as hedge trimming Blackfriars or Hedge-Trimming Blackfriars) is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking across our operations and supply chain. This modern slavery statement sets out our policy, the roles and responsibilities for implementation, and the concrete steps we take to reduce risk. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for forced labour, bonded labour, servitude and any form of worker exploitation, applying to our employees, contractors and suppliers engaged in Blackfriars hedge trimming and related services.

Our policy is operationalised through clear leadership, documented procedures and proportionate controls. We map our supply chains to identify where risk is highest and apply enhanced due diligence for high-risk suppliers. Recruitment checks, identity verification and fair contract terms are required as part of supplier onboarding. We expect all partners engaged in Hedge Trimming in Blackfriars to demonstrate compliance with labour laws and ethical recruitment practices, and we embed anti-slavery clauses into our commercial agreements to make expectations clear and enforceable.

Reporting Channels, Training and Due Diligence

We provide multiple confidential reporting channels for employees, subcontractors and third parties to raise concerns about suspected exploitation. Reports may be raised through internal whistleblowing procedures, anonymous mechanisms and direct escalation to line managers. Each report is treated seriously, with protections against retaliation and a commitment to timely, impartial investigation. Training programs on identifying signs of modern slavery, safe recruitment and responsible supervision are delivered regularly to our field teams and procurement staff responsible for Blackfriars contracts.

Our due diligence includes supplier prequalification questionnaires, contractual safeguards, and risk-based site assessments. Where indicators of risk are identified we implement enhanced monitoring, including desk reviews, documentary checks and on-site verification. We work with suppliers to close gaps through corrective action plans, capacity building and agreed timelines for remediation. Senior management receives regular updates on due diligence findings and action taken.

Supplier audits form a cornerstone of our approach and are scheduled based on assessed risk. Audits are conducted by trained auditors or independent third parties and include a combination of document review, payroll checks and worker interviews. Key audit activities typically include:

• Verification of recruitment practices and fee-free labour policies,
• Examination of wage and payroll records to confirm lawful payment,
• Interviews with workers about working hours, freedom of movement and access to grievance channels.

Supplier Standards, Remediation and Annual Review

We require suppliers to abide by our supplier code of conduct and to implement appropriate controls across their own subcontracting chains. Where audits identify non-conformances, suppliers must provide corrective action plans, demonstrate progress against milestones and accept follow-up audits. Persistent or serious breaches, including evidence of modern slavery, result in decisive measures including suspension of work, termination of contracts and notification to relevant authorities.

Hedge Trimming Blackfriars adopts a victim-centred remediation approach: when exploitation is suspected or identified we prioritise the safety and welfare of the affected person, provide access to support and remediation, and cooperate with law enforcement and specialist agencies where required. Remediation actions include securing safe work conditions, facilitating access to owed wages, and arranging alternative employment or repatriation where appropriate. We also collaborate with peers, industry groups and civil society to strengthen prevention and response mechanisms.

Governance of this statement and related activities sits with senior leadership and our compliance function. We conduct a formal annual review of our policies, supplier audit outcomes, reporting channel effectiveness and training programs to ensure continuous improvement. The annual review assesses KPIs such as audit coverage, remedial outcomes, training completion rates and the number and resolution of reported concerns. Following the review, we update risk assessments and implement an action plan to strengthen controls, increase supplier audits where necessary and reinforce our enduring zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery within the Blackfriars hedge trimming sector.