Professional services group Gateley has extended its partnership with the Heart of England Forest for a third year - supporting its responsible business objective to back local projects that enhance sustainability.
Founded on a shared vision for a greener, more resilient future, the partnership sees Gateley 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 its 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, Gateley 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, Gateley, 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.”
Fran Bos, senior corporate partnerships manager, the Heart of England Forest, said: “Our collaboration with Gateley has evolved beyond funding – it’s a genuine partnership rooted in shared values and a drive to make a difference.
“From inspiring the next generation through outdoor learning to encouraging employee volunteering and wellbeing, it shows how business and environmental organisations can achieve lasting impact together.”
Gateley has also published its fifth annual Responsible Business Report. As part of its commitment to being a positive force in society and in the communities, it serves, it set 15 objectives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including to support local projects which enhance sustainability.
