Are you…
- looking to get outdoors more often but don’t know where to go?
- wanting to socialise but don’t want to join a regular group?
- keen to make a difference but don’t know where to start?
- feeling down down or lonely and want to meet some friendly people?
Then you’ve come to the right place.
The Charnwood Forest Geopark volunteers are a roving group of people who do a range of activities to support the nature and culture of Charnwood Forest. Organised by the Charnwood Forest Geopark, our volunteering activities include caring for geological sites, improving the condition of greenspaces and helping to make it easier for people to access them. We use hand tools to clear vegetation, build and repair dry stone walls, manage woodlands and learn about the nature around us.
We are a friendly bunch who enjoy getting outdoors, meeting new people and sharing our skills. All tools, equipment and protective gear is provided, as well as a hot drink and biscuit at break time.
Lots of the places we work in are quite rural, and many don’t have toilet facilities. Please see this map of the area in which we work.
Things to bring/wear:
- a thermal mug if you have one (and we have spares you can borrow if you need)
- your own lunch, snacks, cold drinks
- sturdy boots (and we have welly boots and waterproof trousers you can borrow if you need)
- waterproof jacket
Before your first session
You are very welcome to have a phone call or email conversation with our Community Engagement Officer, Ali, who will be happy to answer any questions you have. We can also meet you on the day a few minutes before the rest of the group arrive so you have chance to meet Ali and discuss what you will be doing, tell us anything that will help you during the session and ask any last-minute questions. If you would like, we will try to arrange a volunteer to buddy you for the session so that you have someone to work alongside and give you any extra support.
After your first session
If you decide you enjoy coming to our sessions, you will be asked to register as a volunteer with us so that we have your full contact details and can understand a little more about you. There is no lower commitment level, so you are welcome just to come to the sessions you choose. You will be emailed information about future sessions and activities and can sign up for them simply by replying.
To get started
Send Ali an email: abrand-barker@nationalforest.org or pick up the phone: 07890 067140 to start the conversation and find out about getting involved as a volunteer. There are no silly questions, so please don’t hesitate to ask should you want to know anything more.
We look forward to hearing from you!