Volunteering is at the core of everything we do for wildlife, people and places. We value every volunteer for their contributions however big or small. We also know that volunteering can help young people take action for nature and themselves.

There are loads of ways for young people to get involved with nature. We have a flourishing young volunteer events and opportunities scene, for you to join. These include wildlife watch groups (6-12 years) ; young volunteer days (11-16 years) ; school placements (11-16 years) ; work experience for teenager days (14-17 years) ; internships and apprenticeships ( both over 18 years) .

Each of our young volunteers that are already signed up, have all come through a different journey to us, but they all share the same passion for nature and the determination to make a difference. We asked two young volunteers (Lewis and Henry) about feedback on their experiences of volunteering with us. These include what advice would they give to other people thinking of joining; what would they say to young people who are thinking of volunteering but are a bit nervous about joining in and finally what would be their message to young people who are not sure how they can help out with the environment.

Lewis

I started volunteering because I like to help the wildlife and also look after nature as well. I have picked up some useful skills and I liked putting the bird boxes up in the woods quite recently at Staveley and Drumburgh. As a volunteer I have done a variety of things like installing bird boxes in the woods and checking the health of trees. If you are nervous of going to them do not be afraid to be yourself, you will have lots of fun and everyone is very friendly. Register with the Cumbria wildlife volunteer days to learn more.

Henry 

I decided to volunteer for you because I want to help look after the countryside and because I am doing land and wildlife at Myerscough College. I have volunteered for Cumbria Wildlife Trust at Staveley and Drumburgh. The skills that I have learnt that when putting up bird and bat boxes you have to put them on trees they need to have enough space to manoeuvre when they are in flight. I enjoy seeing new people, and I also enjoy making new friends. I would say come and join in because as soon as you start to have fun you can start to make friends, but if you are feeling lonely the leaders are always there to help you and to keep you safe. If you’re not sure about how to help out with the environment you can do bird watching and find out how many different types of birds you can see, you can also litter pick your local area.

So if you want to know more about our young volunteer events and opportunities, then we’d love to hear from you. Please visit our volunteer opportunities page.