Community Forestry has been a longstanding initiative under Sheffield City Council for more than 20 years. 

In 2019, I assumed leadership of the project and successfully secured funding of approximately £500,000 from a number of sources to recruit five officer posts (starting from none) which are funded up to 2025. This also encompassed a couple of Urban Forest Traineeships. 

Together, we collaborated with schools, community groups and local residents, to plant and nurture tens of thousands of trees across Sheffield, as well as hosting events and talks. Additionally, I established partnerships with Universities, Wildlife Trusts, and other organisations to help guide the future development of Sheffield's Urban Forest.

 Looking ahead, I am hopeful that the team will continue its important work beyond 2025.