Corporate volunteering
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Heathland is as rare as rainforest, and we are proud to manage the fifth-largest area of heathland in West Sussex.
However, this fragile landscape requires ongoing care if it is to survive and continue providing an essential habitat for wildlife. Active management—particularly controlling the spread of native plant species—is vital to safeguarding this rare environment. In support of this effort, locally based David Bateman, Chief Investment Officer of the FTSE‑listed REIT Primary Health Properties PLC (PHP), recently volunteered, along with members of his team, to help clear bracken at Lynchmere Common. Their hands-on contribution forms part of the company’s wider commitment to its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agenda. 
Lynchmere resident David Bateman, volunteered some of his team’s muscle power to help clear bracken on the commons as part of his company’s commitment to their ESG agenda.
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“ESG is central to the way we run PHP and with this in mind we offer our staff the opportunity to take some paid leave to take part in charitable activities which will positively contribute to society. Did you know…
Heathlands and grasslands actually stash away more carbon than today’s farmed fields. By looking after these long‑established habitats, we’re not just giving wildlife a break; we’re also safeguarding the huge carbon stores hidden beneath our feet. |
A day of fresh air and getting stuck in together looks like…Teams begin the day with an introductory talk from a local conservation expert, such as Mark Allery, who shares the history of the area and its commons. The days leaders will explain the importance of lowland heathland habitat and why, over generations, controlling native species such as bracken, gorse, and birch has relied on community volunteers now that these plants are no longer regularly “cropped” by trade. Without active management, these species can quickly dominate, suppressing other plants and reducing overall biodiversity.
We provide a practical demonstration of the hand tools and techniques used, before everyone picks up loppers and hand saws and gets started. Under our guidance, the group focuses on removing rhododendron, gorse, small silver birch, and holly trees. Once cut, the material is dragged to a bonfire and safely burned on site.
After a break for lunch – and a chance to appreciate the newly opened-up views – we continue to cut and collect invasive growth. Depending on the area being cleared, we may also reduce a number of taller but young silver birch and holly trees before they become to large to require a specialist chainsaw operator.
As the day draws to a close after a full day of exercise and teamwork, we collect the last bits of material and return to the fire. The embers are gathered into a smaller, controlled heap. After we say our goodbyes, the day’s leader stays on to keep a careful watch as the flames die down. |
“We rely so much on volunteers to help manage the commons. It is wonderful to see company employees wanting to volunteer and help us manage the heathland. If there are other organisation who would like to volunteer as part of their environment, social and governance policies we’d love to hear from you” |
To arrange a day, please contact our Chairmen, Mike McCartIf you work for, or know of organisations who would like to volunteer as part of their environment, social and governance policies; we’d love to hear from you.
Email: Mike McCart Mobile: 07931 730020 |
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