Practical Conservation Group Volunteer (St Brides Major)

Butterfly Conservation; United Kingdom; On-site; Full time

Job description

Practical Conservation Group Volunteer (St Brides Major)

Available from 28/05/2025 to 21/01/2027

At Butterfly Conservation, we want to create a world where butterflies and moths are enjoyed by everyone, forever. Our Practical Conservation Group Volunteers help ensure that their local site is a haven for wildlife and the people who enjoy it. Working with other volunteers doing hands‑on, practical work, they make sure the site is right for butterflies by cutting, raking or digging.

There’s often a bonfire and refreshments, too!

You will enjoy physical work and have the chance to see the results of your efforts both on the day and in the following spring and summer when the butterflies and moths return. You don’t need to know anything about butterflies or moths to get started, but will have the chance to learn about them and other wildlife.

Come and join us for a taster day - and if you like it then we'd love to have you back for more!

Volunteer role

Practical Conservation Group Volunteer

Volunteer manager

Practical Conservation Group Leader

Where you will be based

Outdoors

Why we want you

To take part in practical conservation tasks on key sites for the benefit of moths and butterflies.

What you will be doing

• Carry out practical conservation tasks (cutting scrub, raking, uprooting invasive species, clear felling etc.) as directed by the group leader
• Ensure that you understand the work which needs to be carried out on site, why, where and how

The skills you need

• An understanding of safe tool use, or a willingness to learn
• You need to be capable of working outside for several hours, sometimes on uneven or steep ground
• Since many sites are rural with poor transport links, it can be useful to have your own transport
• Ability to promote Butterfly Conservation’s core values

What's in it for you

• This role gives great job satisfaction – you can see the impact of your work both on the day and in the following spring / summer
• Learn more about the site and the butterflies and moths which use it
• Increase your social circle with like minded people, boosting your wellbeing

Disclaimer

This role is active year round. Practical conservation days ("work parties") are arranged at intervals during the season, but usually take place between 10am and 4pm on the chosen day. We ask for a minimum commitment to attend 1 work party over the course of one season. We will also ask you to complete health and safety training for the role. May involve accessing steep slopes, uneven ground, or remote sites. Please check with the named contact for this opportunity. Children aged 13-15 must be accompanied by an adult whilst volunteering. If you are aged 16 or 17, your parent may give written permission for you to volunteer without adult supervision. Photo credit: Beth Harper