© Ahmed Kamara
Volunteer with us
Our volunteers help London's wildlife thrive – without them we wouldn't be able to continue recovering nature.
Whether you're a nature novice or an ecology expert; everyone is welcome to get involved. Volunteering with us will give you new skills and experience, learning from qualified professionals.
There are lots of different ways to get involved with London Wildlife Trust in locations across the capital, for example surveying, practical conservation, or meeting visitors, amongst other opportunities.
To register for volunteering opportunities please fill out our application form
Key information
- All volunteers must be aged 16 and over. 16 and 17-year-olds need parental consent unless they are in employment. Sometimes there are rules on whether you need to bring a friend, sibling, parent or guardian who is 18+. Please email us to find out more.
- Expenses can be provided for travel within London and for a lunch of under £6.
- Any equipment needed is provided by us, but please wear suitable clothing and footwear.
- You will need to complete a compulsory registration form, please inform your team leader of any relevant medical conditions.
Internships
The National Minimum Wage law allows charities to have unpaid interns, however the sector has faced criticism that the practise takes advantage of those wanting to start their career in the Third Sector, and is a barrier to those unable to work for free.
London Wildlife Trust's previous approach to internships - paying travel and lunch expenses - wasn't as fair as it could have been. We now recognise that those who couldn't afford to work for free were locked out of the opportunity to gain essential experience with us, and as a result we weren't getting the diversity of talent that the organisation needs in order to continue to do great work now and in the future. We've taken advise from fair internships campaigners and we no longer accept unpaid internships at London Wildlife Trust.
What we'll offer you
- A warm welcome with an induction to the work of London Wildlife Trust.
- Ongoing support from your Volunteer Manager tailored to you.
- Access to training opportunities.
- Branded volunteer clothing, including either a high visibility jacket or t-shirt.
- Access to all necessary PPE and working equipment, and safety briefing.
- Discount in our cafes, including 40% off during a volunteer session and 20% off at any other time when visiting.
- 20% discount voucher for Cotswold Outdoor, Snow & Rock, and Runnersneed, valid online and in-store.
- 10% discount in our retail store at Walthamstow Wetlands during a volunteer session.
- Fun social events like walks, talks, and our annual December team get-together .
- Reimbursement for travel and food expenses, following our volunteer expenses policy.
- Plenty of tea/coffee and biscuits.
Other ways to get involved:
Red crested pochard credit Hadi El Ali
Record your sightings
Your sightings help us understand London's wildlife and what we need to do to protect it.
Bat walk at Woodberry Wetlands credit Penny Dixie