Helena Dolby for Sheffield WT
Volunteering FAQs
We’ve prepared some frequently asked questions regarding volunteering with Cornwall Wildlife Trust. We hope this helps gives you an idea of what to expect, but if you can’t find what you are looking for, please contact us at volunteering@cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk.
What can I expect from Cornwall Wildlife Trust?
Our volunteers are a valued community who give their time voluntarily to undertake tasks on behalf of Cornwall Wildlife Trust in a variety of roles that are all essential to creating a Cornwall where nature thrives. We are committed to ensuring our volunteers have the best possible experience whilst they work with us. You’ll have a Volunteer Manager who will support you throughout your volunteer experience with us. You’ll receive training and support to make sure you feel confident in your volunteer role. You’ll be part of a large community of volunteers whose contributions we take every opportunity to celebrate.
Do I have to know a lot about wildlife to be a volunteer?
No, you don’t need to know anything about wildlife to volunteer with us. We have a variety of volunteer roles and while some do require specific knowledge or skills, many just need your enthusiasm and desire to make a difference. There will also be lots of opportunities for you to learn and gain new experiences and skills while you volunteer with us.
How do I become a volunteer?
Check out our current volunteering opportunities which will provide you with all the information on our current available roles. If you find one that you’re interested in, click ‘Apply’ and complete the application form. The Volunteer Manager will then be in touch to take you through the next steps. Some of our roles may require an initial informal chat before we proceed, or you may need to attend some training before you start. Some of our roles also need some additional checks like DBS – this will be indicated in the role information.
Our opportunities are for regular, rather than one-off volunteers and we can only accept applications for specific volunteer roles.
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
Our volunteering opportunities are currently available to anyone 18 years old and over. If you are under 18, there are opportunities to join our citizen science projects and events if you accompanied by a parent or guardian. The upper age limit for volunteering is 85.
How often do I have to volunteer?
This will depend on the role and your availability. Some roles will have weekly sessions or set shifts, some are more ah-hoc or seasonal and may not have a set pattern. Our aim is to make volunteering as flexible and inclusive as possible.
What should I wear?
This will depend on your role and your Volunteer Manager will advise you on the best clothes to wear. For some roles, additional personal protective equipment will be provided.
What about health and safety for volunteers?
The health and safety of our volunteers is extremely important to us. Your Volunteer Manager is responsible for your safety. They will manage your activities in accordance with our Health and Safety Policy, undertake appropriate risk assessments as needed and provide relevant training. It is also the volunteers' responsibility to ensure that they are following health and safety protocols set out by their Volunteer Manager and report any health and safety issues and concerns to their Volunteer Manager.
Will I receive training?
Yes, you'll receive training relevant to the role you're doing and the tasks that you are involved in.
Can I claim expenses?
Yes, we reimburse travels expenses for volunteers. We ask that any expenses claims are agreed with us in advance and, where appropriate, are accompanied with a receipt.