Policies

Professional Independence & Contractor Neutrality

The consultancy operates on a strictly independent basis with no financial or commercial affiliation with tree contractors or maintenance companies. No referral fees, commissions, or incentives are received for recommended works. All advice is provided solely in the interests of safety, compliance, and best practice.

Contractor specifications are written to enable clients to appoint a contractor of their choosing, ensuring transparency and avoiding conflicts of interest.

Continuing Professional Development

Ongoing CPD ensures advice remains current, accurate, and aligned with evolving best practice. Activities include:

• Keeping up to date with arboricultural guidance, standards, and research
• Regular review of risk assessment methodologies
• Ongoing learning in tree risk management, inspection, and duty of care
• Reflective practice based on professional experience and case outcomes

Data Protection & Confidentiality

All client information is handled in accordance with applicable data protection legislation, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).

• Information is collected only where necessary to deliver services
• Data is stored securely and accessed only for legitimate purposes
• Client information is not shared with third parties without consent, unless legally required
• Reports and site information are treated as confidential

Personal data submitted via the website contact form is used solely for responding to enquiries and providing services.

Safeguarding Awareness

When working on school sites, safeguarding is a key consideration. Site visits are conducted professionally and appropriately, with awareness of safeguarding responsibilities. An enhanced DBS bridging letter with photo identification will be provided prior to site visits.

Health & Safety

All site visits and professional activities are undertaken with due regard for health and safety, including dynamic risk assessment during inspections, compliance with relevant legislation, and consideration of site-specific hazards and operational constraints.

Scope of Advice & Professional Limitations

Advice is based on visual inspection and professional judgement, information available at the time of assessment, and reasonable and proportionate arboricultural practice.

Tree inspections are non-invasive unless otherwise agreed. Reports should be read as part of an overall site management approach rather than a guarantee of future tree performance.

Ethical Practice

• Honest, clear, and proportionate advice
• No unnecessary or unjustified work recommendations
• Supporting clients in making balanced, defensible decisions
• Acting with integrity and professionalism at all times

Complaints & Feedback

Feedback is welcomed. Clients with concerns about the service provided are encouraged to raise these directly so they can be addressed promptly and professionally.