Seb Hagget
Volunteering
Join our volunteer team
Volunteers play a vital role in the work of the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust. They are the backbone of our organisation and without them we simply could not deliver our essential work for wildlife.
With your help and support, we can do so much more. Each volunteer brings with them knowledge and enthusiasm which really makes a difference to our work, whether it is working regularly outdoors with our practical teams, helping in our offices or supporting our cause by becoming a wildlife community ambassador, it all helps to protect our beautiful wildlife and wild places for future generations.
When you become a volunteer, you will help protect threatened wildlife, have fun, meet people who share your interests - and benefit from feeling happier, healthier and more connected to nature!
Frequently asked questions
Why volunteer for Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust?
Through volunteering for us, you will:
- Contribute to the conservation of threatened wildlife and habitats across Leicestershire and Rutland
- Feel happier and healthier - research has shown that volunteering in wild spaces has a huge positive impact on mental and physical health
- Learn how to carry out different tasks involved with the management of nature reserves, use different tools and improve your wildlife identification skills
- Gain valuable experience - which is crucial if you are interested in a career in nature conservation
- Meet new people and make friends who share your interests in wildlife
What can I do as a volunteer?
Volunteering tasks are hugely varied, please see our list of current volunteer opportunities to find a suitable volunteer role for you.
If you can't find a current opportunity to suit you, we would still be interested in speaking to you about other ways that you may be able to support us. Please email volunteering@lrwt.org.uk
How much time do I need to commit?
Volunteers can give as much or as little time as they wish. Some of our volunteer roles require different time commitments, however, you decide how much time you wish to give and we will discuss this with you before you start volunteering. Some people are able to volunteer every week, whereas some are only available once a month or a few times every year. It is up to you and we will make sure your volunteer role suits you.
Do I need prior experience to become a volunteer?
No, we want to encourage everyone to get involved with volunteering whatever your interests or past experiences. A wide range of people volunteer with us and make a real difference. We try to cater for all abilities, too, so even if you're not too physically able, we can find a role to suit you.
In most cases, no previous experience is needed, some roles do require specific skills or experience, but most allow you to learn as you go along. In these cases, you will receive appropriate training and guidance from a staff member or experienced volunteer. For regular volunteers and for more involved roles, we aim to make formal training available as and when it is needed.
What can I expect as a volunteer?
- A clear brief about what you will be doing and what will be expected of you
- Agreement on how long the task will last and how often it will happen
- Training to undertake the task if necessary
- Ongoing support and advice
- Regular and constructive feedback on your voluntary work
- The opportunity to discuss your ideas
- Information about other opportunities for volunteering as they arise
- Recognition of your time and skills with annual social events
- Thanks for your time and effort
Will I receive an induction?
Yes, all new volunteers will be given an induction relevant to their area of work. All inductions are designed to be informal whilst still covering everything you need to know before starting in your new volunteering role. You will also be given a Volunteer Handbook to take away, which details all essential information about volunteering.
How do I become a volunteer?
Please look through the current volunteer opportunities listed on our website.
Once you have decided which role is right for you, please contact volunteering@lrwt.org.uk and we will guide you through the next steps to becoming a volunteer.
If you can't find a current opportunity to suit you, we would still be interested in speaking to you about other ways that you may be able to support us, so please do get in touch.
Get in touch
If you have any enquiries regarding volunteering please email volunteering@lrwt.org.uk