Environment and wildlife conservation volunteer roles

Join Our New Wildlife Conservation Volunteering Programme

Help launch our new volunteering programme and play a hands-on role in conserving wildlife habitats at Baronsdown Wildlife Reserve, near Dulverton on the Somerset–Devon border.

Why Volunteer?

By joining us, you will:

• Make a positive contribution to wildlife conservation
• Help protect and enhance local habitats
• Meet like-minded people
• Spend time connecting with nature
• Support your wellbeing through meaningful outdoor activity

Saturday 11 July

This is the first of a series of practical conservation volunteering days planned throughout the year.

Choose the session that suits you:

• Morning: 10:00am–12:00pm
• Afternoon: 1:00pm–3:00pm
• Full day: 10:00am–3:00pm

Activities:

• Pulling ragwort
• Building nesting boxes
• Taking part in pollinator surveys

No experience is required. Full instruction, supervision, and all necessary tools and equipment will be provided.

Please note that the reserve is on uneven and hilly terrain. We recommend:

• Wellies or sturdy outdoor boots
• Long sleeves and trousers
• Gardening gloves, if you have them
• A hat and sun cream in warm or sunny weather

Facilities:

• Toilets on site
• Free parking available
• Tea and biscuits provided
• If attending for the full day, please bring a packed lunch

Get Involved:

We welcome volunteers of all ages and experience levels. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. To register your interest, please apply and our Volunteer Coordinator, Angela, will be in touch with further details.

We need volunteers in this role to help gather as much data as possible as part of our Wild Magic project, so we can see the way that new management techniques will impact upon wildlife, and how it contributes to The Owen Smith Charitable Trust; monitoring the changes in the numbers and types of species found at Wild Magic, and the changes in habitat provision.

We are aiming to undertake surveys and monitoring relating to birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and plant species. By volunteering you will be helping us to gain a better understanding of the species and habitats within the project area, and how the species, their populations and the habitat changes in relation to the management practices.

What this role entails

• Help conduct wildlife and plant surveys
• Assist with ongoing monitoring
• Adhere to safety and regulations guidelines

Qualifications, experience and skills needed

• Interest in environmental conservation and biodiversity
• Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• Basic knowledge of native plants and wildlife preferred
• Ability to work well in a team
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Patience, attention to detail, and willingness to see a survey through

Benefits

Exciting opportunity to monitor wildlife and contribute to evidence-based conservation, while gaining real-world experience. We will offer training to ensure you are prepared.

Join TreeAction as a Conservation Volunteer 

Love being outdoors and want to make a real difference in your community? Join TreeAction and help us care for young trees and improve local green spaces across Sussex.

We’re looking for friendly, enthusiastic volunteers to take part in our relaxed, hands-on conservation sessions. There’s no long-term commitment — just come along when you can and enjoy making a positive impact.

What you’ll do
Help care for newly planted trees by:

• Weeding

• Mulching

• Watering saplings

Sessions take place at:

• Adur Recreation Ground

• Southwick Recreation Ground

• Shoreham Recreation Ground

• Lancing Manor Gardens

What to expect

• Just 2 hours per session, once a month

• No commitment - join in whenever you are available

• No experience needed — full training provided

• Tools supplied

• A welcoming, supportive community atmosphere

What to bring

• Gardening clothes (long sleeves and trousers recommended)

• Sturdy footwear

TreeAction is a non-profit community interest organisation working to plant trees in schools, colleges, and public spaces, while supporting environmental education for young people. By volunteering with us, you’ll be helping to create greener, healthier places for everyone.

You’ll also be joining a growing community of nature lovers and conservationists — with social events throughout the year.

Come grow something meaningful with us 

About The Role

At WWT we shape unforgettable experiences. We are a warm, welcoming and genuine charity that protects and restores Wetlands. WWT Martin Mere has 600 acres of amazing wetland scenery which is home to such an assortment of wildlife. 

We are looking for volunteers who can support our team in our Café and shop to ensure we offer excellent customer service to our visitors.

By providing excellent customer care in our shop, you will be encouraging our visitors to support the wider conservation work of WWT. The money that is taken in retail is instrumental to the conservation work that WWT can afford to carry out.

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You'll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. 

If you are interested in volunteering for WWT but don't wish to apply online, please email us, or give us a call and  leave us a message with your name and number.  

About You

Who are we looking for?

This role would suit you if:

• Have an enthusiastic and friendly manner
• Have an eye for detail and creativity
• Excellent verbal communication skills
• A confident attitude and / or experience in successful face-to-face contact with the public
• Commitment to excellent customer service
• Are happy using a computer/till
• Like working in a busy environment
• An interest in birding and optics equipment (if you’d like to get involved in promoting and selling our optics)

We are particularly looking for people to help on Mondays, Thursdays or Fridays. 

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you'll love volunteering at WWT

• Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
• Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife - talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake...
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
• Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life

We look forward to hearing from you! 

Volunteer Living History Assistant

About The Role

By providing an excellent visitor experience as a member of the Living History team, you will be bringing wetlands throughout history, and the history of the mere to life by delivering key messages about how important wetlands are for food, materials, medicine and livelihoods. This encourages our visitors to make the most of their visit to Martin Mere, and to understand and support our work to save wetlands for wildlife and people.

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You’ll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. 
 
If you are interested in volunteering for WWT but don’t wish to apply online, please email us or give us a call and leave us a message with your name and number. 
 
Just to let you know, some of our roles are very popular. To help our teams and minimise disappointment for people kind enough to want to support us, we might take roles down before the closing date if we get a lot of applications. If you do miss a role, or are looking for something particular, you can sign up to opportunity alerts. 

About You

No previous experience is required as training will be provided.  However this role will suit you if you have a love of wildlife and the outdoors and are:

• A good knowledge of local history
• Confident or experienced in delivering talks
• Able to work in a team of staff and volunteers
• Experience in a customer related role would be advantageous
• Able to communicate well to a diverse range of audiences
• Familiar with Martin Mere centre

Please note, this role is not suitable for Under 18’s. 

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT

• Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
• Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife – talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake…
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
• Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life

How to Apply

For more information on this role, and others, and to apply please visit our website. 

Thank you, and we look forward to hearing from you! 

We’re WWT, the charity for wetlands and wildlife. We’re on a mission to restore wetlands because they are a wondrous solution to our world's problems. Together we will unlock their power – and help nature burst back to life. Because when wetlands flourish, all life will flourish.

We believe the best way for people to understand and connect to wetlands is to experience them, so we bring awe-inspiring nature up close. Our enthusiasm for what we do motivates others to support our cause and ultimately helps save wetlands and their wildlife. You will be contributing to this aspect of our work by assisting the Education department with the delivery of outdoor workshops for schools and other educational groups.

No previous knowledge is required as training and equipment will be provided. However, this role will suit you if you have:

• A good basic knowledge of UK wildlife, conservation and nature.
• An enthusiasm for the natural world and sharing this with others.
•  The ability to communicate effectively with children.
• Willingness to work outside in most weather conditions. Please note the role will require some lifting, bending and other reasonable physical activities.
• Excellent and reliable time management to ensure that sessions run time.
• Ability to work well with other WWT Martin Mere staff and volunteers.
• A positive, confident and welcoming disposition.

Please apply for this role via the WWT website.

Play Area Maintenance Volunteer

About The Role

Washington’s amazing inner grounds have a lot of infrastructure which requires regular maintenance. By volunteering your time with us you will be helping to ensure that Washington’s play area is maintained to the highest standard for our visitors, helping families make memories in our amazing wetlands.

What will you be doing?

• This role will be varied, and will involve a lot of daily maintenance/minor repair of the play area, including:
• Inspection of play area to identify work required and ensure it is in working order (training will be given in line with our Play Inspection system)
• Cleaning of play equipment and ground surfaces using brushes, mobile jetwash and environmentally safe detergents
• Raking and replenishment of woodchip and sand
• Weeding of play area
• Identifying and undertaking minor repairs of equipment and pathways within the play area
• Managing vegetation around the play area and its pathways

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You’ll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. 
 
If you are interested in volunteering for WWT but don’t wish to apply online, please email us or give us a call and leave us a message with your name and number. 

About You

Who are we looking for?

• Someone who should be committed to good customer service and willing to engage our visitors with the work of WWT.
• Any volunteer should be able and willing to undertake a range of physical activities outside in all weathers.
• Previous experience with the use of hand tools would be an advantage, although not necessarily a necessity.
• Proactive and able to work with a minimum of supervision, under the direction of the grounds team.
• Must have excellent communication skills and a positive attitude.

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role. 

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT

• Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
• Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife – talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake…
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
• Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life

Time Commitment: Between 6 & 10 hours per week with a commitment to a minimum of 6-months, so you can get ht best out of the experience. We will mutually agree the hours that you can contribute 

How to Apply

For more information on this role, and others, and to apply, please visit our website. 

We look forward to hearing from you! Thank you! 

Charity Trustee Opportunity – Protecting Animals, Changing Lives

Are you passionate about animal welfare and looking for a meaningful way to make an impact?

The Jean Sainsbury Animal Welfare Trust (JSAWT) is seeking new Trustees to join its dedicated and collaborative Board.

What we do:

JSAWT supports UK-registered charities that rescue, rehabilitate, release, and rehome animals by providing vital grant funding.

We focus on smaller organisations—where our support can make a real difference—helping transform the lives of animals and the people who care for them. From volunteer-led hedgehog rescues to international wildlife conservation initiatives, our work spans a diverse and inspiring range of causes.

Applications are reviewed three times a year by the Board of Trustees. Awards are given on a case-by-case basis to charities that meet our criteria and clearly demonstrate how the funding will benefit animals in their care.

Why join us?

By joining us, you will be able to:

• Gain valuable governance and leadership experience.
• Play a vital role in shaping the future of a leading animal welfare grant provider.
• Join a collaborative and supportive Board of Trustees with diverse expertise.
• Learn about a wide range of animal welfare initiatives in the UK and internationally.

What you will do:

• Contribute to the Board’s strategic oversight of the Jean Sainsbury Animal Welfare Trust, informing the charity’s governance and financial sustainability.
• Share your expertise to help JSAWT strengthen its resilience and ensure sustainability.
• Act as an ambassador for JSAWT. You may be invited to represent JSAWT at events hosted by charities we support. Trustees are also encouraged to visit applicants and previous grant recipients, helping to strengthen relationships and ensure our awards are used as intended.
• You will work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Administrators to ensure JSAWT achieves its mission and long-term objectives.

What we are looking for:

You will be able to demonstrate a commitment to JSAWT’s values and a passion for improving the lives of animals and the people who care for them.

We welcome applications from individuals with knowledge and experience in any of the following areas:

• IT and cybersecurity, especially for a small non-profit organisation.
• Legal aspects of charity management and compliance.
• Communications and marketing, ideally for a small non-profit organisation.

Previous Trustee experience is not essential – we welcome applications from people new to charity governance. Full induction and support will be provided.

Potential Trustees must be able to commit to reviewing documents and applications in advance of meetings and be able to communicate their decisions.

The Board is friendly and inclusive and welcomes discussion and expression of opinions in a respectful and supportive environment.

Terms:

• Three Board meetings are held in March, July/August, and November. The meetings are held at the London office. They are usually in the afternoon and can last 4-5 hours.
• Attendance in person is encouraged; however, Trustees may attend virtually if this is preferable.
• The office has step free access and is all on one level.
• There may be occasional sub-committee meetings or events (virtual or in person).
• Reasonable expenses incurred by attending meetings (or other agreed work) may be reimbursed: for example, travel, subsistence, and childcare.
• The initial term is three years, with the option of renewal for a further three years.

JSAWT is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every individual is treated with dignity and respect.

Appropriate checks will be carried out on shortlisted candidates.

Further details are available on our website or can be obtained by contacting the Administrators.

Are you interested in helping to save wildlife? We are Swan Lifeline, based on Cuckoo Weir Island in Eton Berkshire, and our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and release sick and injured waterfowl.

We’re dependant on Volunteers to manage our site operation and offer a very rewarding experience where you will learn lots and share amazing experiences as we transform lives. The work includes cleaning indoor and outdoor enclosures, food prep & feeding, site maintenance and assisting with rescues (if you are interested).

We do have a few simple requirements for the on-site team Volunteer role:

· You have a passion for Swans and helping wildlife.

· You make a regular commitment that fits with our shift system (ideally once a week but a minimum of 2 half days a month)

· You can work hard (active physical work), as part of a team.

· You can work independently once fully trained (full training will be given)

· Are over the age of 18 (sadly, our insurance doesn’t cover Minors).

We are also very interested in Volunteers who can offer time at weekends, and people who could do an early evening shift in the months of July & August when we’re especially busy.

Are you interested in helping to save wildlife? We are Swan Lifeline, based on Cuckoo Weir Island in Eton Berkshire, and our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and release sick and injured waterfowl.

We’re dependant on Volunteers and offer a very rewarding experience where you will learn lots and share amazing experiences as we transform lives. This volunteering role involves attending waterfowl who need rescuing and/or transporting to our site in Eton. 

We’re looking for 2 types of specialist Volunteers: You could do either or both.

Rescuer (Home based): Rescuing swans and other waterfowl from home. You’ll only do simple rescues to start with i.e. moving a swan from a garden or road etc. (beginners will not be asked to attend water-based rescues). Requires confidence handling large birds (full training given) and a good level of physical fitness. We will set you up with equipment.

Driver: Collecting waterfowl (usually ducklings, cygnets, geese etc.) and dropping them to our site or transporting birds to a different rescue centre.

We do have a few requirements for the Rescue and Driver Volunteer role:

· You live no more than 50 miles radius from postcode SL4 6SS

· You have a full, clean driving license and your own vehicle

· You can work independently once fully trained (full training given at our site in Eton)

· Are over the age of 18 (sadly, our insurance doesn’t cover Minors)

· You have a passion for Swans and are comfortable (after training) handling large birds

· You are willing to join the WhatsApp group that we use to communicate. We post rescues and collections to the WA group, and we ask you to respond if you are able to go. There is no obligation to respond or attend if you are unable.

Volunteer Ice Cream Bike Operator

About The Role

We’re looking for positive minded individuals who can bring joy and some theatre to Ice Cream sales whilst on the move on our electric trike at Martin Mere Wetland Centre.

Become the face (and wheels!) of Martin Mere Wetland Centre – a mobile, bike‑powered ice‑cream experience that pops up where the crowds are. You’ll steer one of our fully‑equipped electric bikes, to delight customers with ice cold refreshments and Ice-Creams. Use your entrepreneurial flair to maximise daily sales. Expect plenty of sunshine, spontaneous dance‑offs with kids, and the buzz of being on the move. 

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You’ll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. 
 
If you are interested in volunteering for WWT but don’t wish to apply online, please email us, or give us a call and leave a message with your name and number. 

About You

Skills & Experience:

• Customer-facing experience: Previous experience in retail, hospitality, or customer service is highly beneficial. 
• Communication skills: Ability to interact confidently with customers and promote the business. 
• Physical fitness: Ability to cycle a loaded ice cream bike for several hours and handle the physical demands of the role. 
• Numeracy and basic tech skills: Comfortable with handling cash, using card readers, and potentially using POS apps. 
• Independence and reliability: Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and ensure the business runs smoothly. 

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT

• Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
• Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife – talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake…
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
• Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life

Time commitment?Flexible over peak periods e.g. summer holidays and at weekends.

How to Apply

For more information on this fun and important role, and others, and to apply please visit our website. 

We look forward to hearing from you! 

Position: Volunteer Urban Ranger
Responsible to: Urban Ranger
Location: Various outdoor spaces across BD3, BD4 and BD5
Hours: Anything from two hours here and there, to two days a week.
Expenses: Travel expenses will be reimbursed for bus tickets, train tickets or car mileage

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At Better Place Bradford, our mission is to identify and oversee improvements to local parks and outdoor spaces with the aim of providing a healthier and happier environment for babies, young children and families. We work across larger parks, pocket parks, community centres, streets and green spaces across BD3, BD4 and BD5.

We are seeking an enthusiastic, passionate, and highly motivated individual, who is looking to gain some practical landscape maintenance experience.

As a Volunteer Urban Ranger, you’ll play a vital role in maintaining the upkeep of our sites, regularly checking that each site is safe, inviting, and free from rubbish — noting any issues that arise.

Duties include: Litter clearance, sweeping sand back into the sand pits, weeding, planting, watering plants, affixing signs, checking in on the Little Free Library boxes, strimming, raking leaves, supporting at event days, promoting responsible use and enjoyment of our sites.

This role is for you if you;

• Enjoy being outdoors (in all weather)
• Are not afraid of physical work
• Want to make a difference in your local area
• Are comfortable getting to sites across BD3/BD4/BD5
• Enjoy interacting with members of the public
• Want to gain practical landscape maintenance experience
• Are looking for an intro into the environmental / conservation / ranger sectors

Volunteers must be in the UK already.

As an Adventure Ambassador, you will act as the face of Adventures for Animals on our UK and overseas trips. This role offers an exciting opportunity to combine your passion for travel with your commitment to animal welfare, while inspiring others to take part in meaningful challenges. Your primary focus will be on promoting trips, building community engagement, supporting fundraising and delivering an exceptional participant experience before and during each adventure.

Key Responsibilities

Promote Inspiring Adventures

• Generate interest and excitement through social media, community outreach, and personal networks.
• Encourage registrations, and later fundraising, by sharing the purpose and impact of Adventures for Animals and the work of IAPWA.

Host and Represent on Trips

• Act as the official Adventure Ambassador on each trip, representing Adventures for Animals and IAPWA.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive group environment.
• Support participants throughout the journey to help ensure a smooth and memorable experience.

Incentives and Rewards

• Once a trip reaches an agreed capacity, you will secure a free place on the expedition.
• At the next agreed benchmark, you will receive free return flights for the adventure.
• At full capacity, you will also then receive a generous trip allowance.

Represent the Mission

• Embody the values and mission of the charity.
• Share insight into the charity’s work and inspire participants to support animal welfare initiatives.
• Strengthen the sense of community and shared purpose across each adventure.

Team Collaboration

• Attend monthly team meetings with fellow Adventure Ambassadors.
• Share insights, feedback, and ideas to support programme growth and fundraising best practice.
• Optionally organise UK-based hikes or local events to promote upcoming trips and engage the community.

Essential Experience / Skills

• A genuine passion for travel, adventure, and animal welfare
• Strong communication skills and confidence engaging groups
• Self-motivated with the ability to proactively promote trips
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a natural leadership presence
• Organised, reliable, and positive in approach

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to explore exciting destinations while supporting meaningful animal welfare initiatives.
• Personal and professional development in leadership, public speaking, and community engagement.
• The chance to play a key role in raising awareness and funds to support animals worldwide.

Closing Date: The job advert will close as soon as suitable candidates have been found. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible!