Volunteering

British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV)

Midweek and weekend volunteer groups

These run throughout the year at a wide variety of scenic places, carrying out a dynamic programme of activities. These may include tree planting, woodland management, footpath or pond work. All tools and equipment are provided free and prior experience is not required.

Residential projects

As above, but with the added bonus of staying for a week or weekend - a chance to meet new friends and really get involved.

Training

Free or low cost access to a whole variety of conservation-based courses, college certificated and run in conjunction with conservation experts throughout the Southwest. BTCV is an accredited NVQ provider, providing this valuable and recognized practical qualification to our volunteers and those of other leading conservation charities.

BTCV also offer support through the following schemes:

• Millennium Volunteers: support and recognition for 16 to 24 year olds who give their time to volunteer. A varied and exciting programmes taking place throughout the week
• Millennium Volunteers Plus: training, support and funding for 16 to 24 year olds who are not in education or employment
• Sustainable Routes to Learning: training, funding and support for the unemployed of all age groups
• Volunteer Officers: volunteers who are able to commit two to three days per week for at least 6 months receive additional training, work experience and support to enable a move into full employment

For further information visit the BTCV website.

Groundwork South West

Groundwork South West have volunteering opportunities for volunteers in various local nature reserves and community projects in the Plymouth area. Volunteering takes place Tuesdays to Fridays and the last Sunday of the month. Minibus transport to and from project site, and personal protective equipment are provided.

If you are interested and would like more details on becoming a volunteer please telephone on 01752 217721.

For further information visit the Groundwork South West website.

Devon Wildlife Trust

Devon Wildlife Trust run twice monthly practical conservation tasks at Warleigh Point Nature Reserve, Tamerton Foliot. Volunteers are welcome to just turn up.

In summer they also have volunteers helping out at Wembury Marine Centre - manning the interpretation centre and helping with rockpool rambles etc.

For further information visit the Devon Wildlife Trust website.

Marine Life Information Network for Britain and Ireland (MarLIN)

MarLIN makes marine life information available on the internet. MarLIN receives valuable help from volunteers, often students or recent graduates who commit at least one day a week. We get help with basic information reviews, Seashore Safari events or database work.

In return the volunteers learn about marine life, get valuable work experience and meet researchers in their fields of interest.

For further information visit the MarLIN website.

National Trust

Volunteers generally work as warden assistants carrying out the every day business of practical conservation. Tasks vary with the seasons so may include vegetation control, fencing walling etc. and for those with some knowledge, habitat and biological monitoring.

For those interested in the built heritage there are other possibilities but these generally involve working with the public. Hands on conservation in this area is more limited.

For further information visit the National Trust website.

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