An exciting partnership between the innovative social enterprise Pocket Forests and Peter McVerry Trust has come to fruition after months of work and planning.

The truly unique collaboration has brought new life to some of our urban landscapes. With the expertise and support of Pocket Forests, we have been able to create vibrant green spaces across three of our family hub properties in Dublin as well as our Carline Learning Centre.

The project has infused our communities with unexpected biodiversity, beauty, and connection to nature through hands-on, educational workshops and the transformation of space into lush, miniature forests and gardens, in which staff and participants alike took part in.

Beyond Planting: A Commitment to Future Growth and Learning

What set the initiative apart was the commitment to not only create these green spaces but to nurture the knowledge and skills needed to sustain them within our participant group, students and staff. The work was completed in late March 2024 and Pocket Forests will revisit each site during the summer. The educational approach in the delivery of these green spaces, ensures that the benefits of the project will extend far beyond the initial planting, fostering a lasting legacy of environmental awareness and community engagement.

In addition to the ecological impact, each site was equipped with gardening tools and a waterbutt, care of Peter McVerry Trust maintenance team, to support the ongoing care of these ecosystems.

Through the creation of these pocket forests and gardens, we’re not just planting trees—we’re growing communities, knowledge, and a deeper sense of connection to the planet we all share.