our roots
The wellbeing of children and the power of green infrastructure have long been intertwined in North Southwark. This work continues today through the efforts of Charlotte Glazier’s work with InvestiNatures. She walks in the footsteps of a long line of visionary women who championed access to nature as a vital part of urban life.
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In the 1870s, Elizabeth Rossiter pioneered the Country Life for Poor Town Children movement - an early form of green social prescribing that broke down barriers preventing children from experiencing the restorative power of nature.
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Then in 1919, Ada Salter, a renowned social reformer, founded the Bermondsey Beautification and Public Amenities Committee. Her tireless efforts were deeply personal - motivated by the tragic loss of her only child, Joyce, to scarlet fever at the age of eight. Ada’s legacy is a green infrastructure strategy that transformed one of London’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods, bringing health and healing to the streets.
Helen, age 7
The InvestiNatures movement builds on this legacy - with a focus on street nature and child-led stewardship to create a healthy and accessible public realm for all.
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The movement is rooted in North Southwark and honours Joyce Salter’s memory and aims to improve the wellbeing of children and communities, not only in Bermondsey but across the UK.
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We honour Joy - not just as a name, but as a purpose.
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Planting Joy. Growing Futures.
