Beach clean at Spurn - Credit Jo Meays
We will help you get started
The first thing we will do is to try and find the best placement available for you, depending on your interests, skills, abilities and the time you have available. Very occasionally we are not able to find the right placement and we make no apologies for this; we only want to involve you if both you and we will get what we want from your volunteering - this way it’s a positive experience all round.
Once we find the right placement we’ll give you a proper welcome and induction to the Trust, tell you about what we do in more detail and show you where your role fits in. There will be a form to fill in so we know how to contact you and a couple of other things - but this is nothing to worry about.
We are trying to do our best to prevent the cost of travelling to your voluntary placement stopping you from getting involved - so please talk to us if money is a problem.
We’ll give ongoing support and training
We don’t just leave you to it. Some roles are supervised at all times - such as our practical work days out on nature reserves. Other tasks will need less direct support, but you will always have a staff member who is responsible for you and there to help. We aim to train you up fully in your role and this might mean extra courses or training which we will pay for if you need it - we want you to be able to do your best! Usually you will get the chance to meet your staff contact regularly and to ask them any questions you want.
We will ensure it’s a safe, fair and positive place to volunteer
Above all we will provide you with a safe, healthy work place. Any equipment you need will be provided, including uniform, gloves or other clothing. We’ll show you and others how to do things properly and safely. We also take out insurance to cover you in case an accident does happen; but we try to make sure this is rare. The Trust prides itself on being open, fair and welcoming; whatever your background we think there is a place next to nature for you to take part, learn and enjoy - so get involved!
We’ve got it covered
If you have any other questions about health and safety, ours and your responsibilities, how we work, who we work with, or anything else please just ask - we probably have the answer to hand or we’ll do our best to find out.
Your questions answered...
What do volunteers do?
They count butterflies in our meadows, pull up invasive plants on our nature reserves, check on our cows, help write letters to our members, teach children a lifelong love of birds or flowers, show our visitors where to get great views of kingfishers or grass snakes, raise money to buy new tools and pond dipping nets and so much more…
Who can volunteer?
We have volunteers of all ages and abilities from five year olds planting seeds to 85 year olds identifying trees. Our volunteers are from all over Yorkshire (and sometimes beyond) and they come from all walks of life. They bring a variety of skills and experiences. If you are interested in wildlife, helping people or the great outdoors we probably have something for you.
Why volunteer with us?
- Volunteering has many benefits for both the volunteer and for us as an organisation - it’s a real win : win! opportunity
- Maybe you have or are about to retire and are looking for a new interest; perhaps you work in an office and want to get outdoors at the weekend; or you want to stay fit but find the gym a bore?
- Volunteering in the outdoors has been shown to help people keep physically fit, but it’s also good for your head. It can be relaxing and uplifting, inspiring and great for your mind
- Maybe you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do as a family; we’d love to see you!
- Students and university graduates looking for a career in the countryside or conservation will find volunteering an invaluable addition to their experience
- And above all else, you’ll enjoy it; meet likeminded people and make new friends along the way
Do volunteers have to be members?
No. People offer their support in a variety of ways. Some people give donations of money, often by joining as a member; some people offer their time as volunteers. Some do both. Whichever you do, we are extremely grateful.
Do you need prior experience to become a volunteer?
No. We encourage people from all walks of life, with a variety of life experiences to become involved in our work. Some roles require specific skills or experience but most allow you to learn as you go along, after receiving appropriate on the job training. For regular volunteers and for more involved roles we will make formal training available as and when it is needed.
How much time will it take?
You can give as much or as little time as you like, some people give the odd hour here and there; others give a day, a week, or more.
What if I am in receipt of state benefits such as Job Seeker's Allowance?
You can still volunteer. There has been some confusion in the past, especially with Job Centre staff, but volunteering does not prevent you from looking for work or from being ready to start work immediately. If you are unsure please speak to us about your circumstances.
What about young volunteers?
Yorkshire Wildlife Trust encourages volunteers of all ages as long as they are able to take part safely. For young people 16 and under who are still at school we will usually require parents or guardians to supervise them.