Get involved

There are many ways to help nature locally. You can join a practical conservation group, help at events, support wildlife surveys, assist with communications, or contribute to our policy and advocacy work. You do not need to be an expert — we can help you find a role that fits your interests, skills and availability.

As well as helping promote biodiversity, volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people, encounter wildlife, take exercise, and support mental wellbeing.

Find a volunteering role

No experience needed – Many roles are beginner-friendly.
Flexible commitment – Help once, monthly, seasonally or from home.
Local to you – We support conservation groups across Basingstoke and Deane.
Support provided – Group leaders and experienced volunteers will help you get started.

How would you like to help?

Some people join practical conservation work parties. Others help with events, wildlife recording, communications, planning, fundraising or admin. Choose the route that sounds closest to you — or contact us if you are not sure yet.

Practical conservation

Natural Basingstoke supports local conservation groups across the borough. Each group has its own sites, meeting times and focus.

Find a conservation group

Events and community engagement

Help at stalls, workshops, community days and nature activities. This is ideal if you enjoy talking to people and helping others take action for wildlife.

Help at events

Wildlife surveys and citizen science

Volunteer Ecologists assist the council’s Ranger Services and Biodiversity Team, in partnership with Natural Basingstoke, undertaking wildlife surveying and recording for priority species and habitats across local green spaces.

BDBC Volunteer Ecologist Role

Communications and social media

Help us tell better stories about local nature through social media, photography, website updates, posters, newsletters and blogs.

Help with communications

Planning, policy and advocacy

Support our evidence-led work on planning applications, the Local Plan, nature recovery and local environmental policy.

Support policy work

Admin, fundraising and governance

Help behind the scenes with organisation, funding, records, volunteer coordination, charity administration or trustee support.

Help behind the scenes

Youth, DofE, students and skills-based volunteering

Some opportunities may be suitable for young people, students, Scouts or DofE participants, depending on the activity, supervision and group capacity.

Ask about youth volunteering

Send us a volunteer enquiry

Tell us what sort of volunteering you are interested in and we will help connect you with the right group, activity or role.

Email us about volunteering

FAQ

Do I need experience?

No. Many practical conservation sessions are suitable for beginners, and group leaders will explain the task.

Do I need to be physically fit?

Some outdoor tasks are physically active, but not every role is. Tell us if you have access needs or health considerations and we will try to suggest a suitable option.

Can I volunteer just once?

Yes. Events, one-off activities and some practical sessions can be a good way to try volunteering.

What should I wear?

For practical sessions, wear clothes suitable for the weather and sturdy footwear. Some sites may be muddy, uneven or overgrown.

Are tools provided?

For many practical conservation sessions, tools and task guidance are provided by the group or organiser. Check the details for your specific group or session.

Can under-18s volunteer?

Sometimes, but it depends on the activity, supervision and group capacity. All under-18s will need a parent or guardian to attend alongside them. Please contact us first.

Can I volunteer for DofE?

We may be able to support some DofE volunteering, depending on the group, location, supervision and duration required. Please enquire and we should be able to assist.

Can I help from home?

Yes. Some roles, such as communications, research, planning support, admin and fundraising, may be done remotely.