Volunteering FAQs

Here are our frequently asked questions associated with volunteering. If you cannot find what you are looking for, contact our Volunteer Team: [email protected]

Q. What can I expect from the Trust?

A. You can expect a warm welcome at the Sussex Wildlife Trust. You will be assigned a member of staff who will be your volunteer manager, they will introduce you to the other volunteers and staff. They will also explain the role and let you know where everything is. Training and support will be provided to ensure you feel happy and confident enough to undertake your role. If you have any specific training requests please discuss them with the volunteer team.

Q. Do I have to know a lot about wildlife to be a volunteer?

A. No, our volunteers come from all backgrounds with all levels of knowledge, from complete beginner to expert. While some of our roles require specific knowledge or skills, many other just need enthusiasm and a desire to make a difference.

Q. How old do I have to be to volunteer?

A. Sussex Wildlife Trust aims to provide opportunities for all ages, however if you are under 18 please take a look at our Young Persons Volunteering. The upper age limit for volunteering is 85.

Q. How often do I have to volunteer?

A. This will depend on the role and your availability. Some of our groups meet weekly, some monthly and some are seasonal and may not have a set pattern. We are not able to provide one off volunteering, however our volunteers find that making a regular commitment means that we can provide training and support throughout your role. Our aim is to make volunteering as flexible and inclusive as possible.

Q. How can I see opportunities that I can book onto?

A. When you register you will be registered for the group/s that you were interested in. If you log into your My Impact account and click on opportunities you will be able to sign up to the dates that suit you. Please remember to remove yourself from any dates that you then have to cancel. This will enable someone from the backup list to attend in your place.

Q. What should I wear?

A. Most of our volunteering is outside and therefore be prepared for any weather. Occasionally tasks are cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. 

Please wear;

Long trousers (even in the summer – protection against plants and bites)

Long sleeved tops (again even in summer this is advisable)

Waterproof coat

Sun hat or warm hat

Remember to bring plenty of water and lunch - most of our reserves do not have access to amenities including shops and toilets. 

Q. What about health and safety for volunteers?

A. We take the health and safety of everyone involved with the Trust very seriously and it is important for us to ensure that you are safe whilst volunteering. All our events follow our health and safety procedures including risk assessments and first aid. The member of staff running your group will go through health and safety prior to the task starting. On registering as a volunteer please ensure that you read the Occupational Health and Safety Policy on the recruitment portal.

Q. What if I volunteer on my own for example, surveying insects. Where can I find guidance on how to do this safely?

A. For lone working, please see additional guidance found in files on your My Impact account. If you are unable to find this information please contact the volunteering team.

Q. Will I receive training?

A. Yes, all of our volunteers receive the relevant training depending on the tasks that they are involved in. For some roles we do offer additional training courses for volunteers who make a regular commitment to us.

Q. Can I claim expenses?

A. Yes, we reimburse travel expenses for volunteers. We ask that any expenses claims are agreed with us in advance and, where appropriate, are accompanied with a receipt.

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