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?
Be part of The Wildlife Trusts, the national voice of the 47 county Wildlife Trusts and 50 urban Wildlife Groups. That means joining forces with over 65,000 volunteers, 300,000 members and 700 staff all working together locally and nationally to create a better future for wildlife.
- Use your skills and knowledge to benefit wildlife
- Be actively involved in protecting wildlife for the future in Leicestershire and Rutland
- Make new friends
- Acquire new or improve existing skills
- Be part of a team, helping build confidence and develop social skills
- Gain valuable work experience
- Keep fit and active – volunteering outdoors is a good alternative to the gym
- Share your enthusiasm for wildlife with others
- Learn more about Leicestershire and Rutland fascinating wildlife
- Enjoy the beautiful Leicestershire and Rutland countryside
What can I do as a volunteer?
All tasks undertaken by volunteers at Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust should have a written description of what is involved. This will cover areas such as location and times of work, specific tasks and who will help you with them. Your team leader will go through this description with you at your induction and make sure you are happy with all that the role involves. At this point, any training you may need to carry out the task will be identified.
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?
You decide how much time you wish to give Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust. Some people are able to volunteer every week whereas some are only available to volunteer once a month or a few times every year. Some roles do require a more solid commitment than others – if this is the case, it will be discussed with you before you start volunteering. At the end of the day it is totally up to 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
- Sometimes even biscuits!
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