We have extended our successful partnership with the Heart of England Forest for a third year, supporting our responsible business objective to back local projects which enhance sustainability.
Founded on a shared vision for a greener, more resilient future, the partnership sees us support the charity in its ultimate mission to create a 30,000-acre forest, equivalent to half the size of Birmingham, through woodland maintenance and tree-planting volunteering days for our colleagues across the Midlands.
In addition, Gateley will continue to use the partnership to facilitate access to green spaces for disadvantaged schoolchildren across the region. Last year, we funded an after-school club for children from Ark Kings Academy in Birmingham.
The results were transformative for the pupils, boosting confidence, wellbeing, social skills, and a lifelong connection with the natural world for young people who face significant challenges in their daily lives. This year Gateley will be funding after-school club sessions for pupils from two Redditch-based schools.
Members of the Heart of England Forest team have also held lunchtime educational sessions on the insects which live on its grounds and contribute to its ecosystem, as well as recording two episodes of Talking Business, Gateley’s responsible business podcast, to promote environmental awareness for a greener future.
Rebecca Sherwin, partner and Birmingham office head said: “Our partnership with the Heart of England Forest has been built on a shared desire to protect and restore our planet. As well as supporting the planting of trees and the protection of threatened species, we were particularly proud to have facilitated access to nature for Year 4 pupils from Ark Kings Academy in Birmingham. Our responsible business ethos is built on having a positive impact on the communities we serve, and this is the perfect demonstration of how strategic partnerships can support this ambition.
