Most of our volunteering is outside, so best to be prepared for any weather. Occasionally tasks are cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. 

For land-based conservation tasks throughout the year we suggest you wear: 

• Long trousers to protect against scratches and insect bites
• Long-sleeved tops to protect against scratches, bites and the sun
• Waterproof coat and warm layers for winter
• Sun hat or warm hat
• Gardening gloves if you have them

And remember to bring:

• Plenty of water
• Lunch

Most of our reserves don’t have shops or toilets.

You can expect a warm welcome at the Sussex Wildlife Trust when you start! You’ll be assigned a volunteer manager, who will:

• introduce you to the other volunteers and staff
• explain the role and let you know where everything is
• arrange training and support until you’re confident in doing your role

If you have any specific training requests please discuss them with the volunteer team.

This depends on the role and when you’re available. Some of our volunteer groups meet weekly, some monthly. Some are seasonal and may not have a set pattern. 

Our aim is to make volunteering as flexible and inclusive as possible. That said, we don’t provide one-off volunteering opportunities, because the best way to provide meaningful opportunities, training and support is if volunteers make a regular and ongoing commitment. 

There are opportunities from age 12 all the way up to 85. Most of our work parties are open to over 18s, but if you’re 16 to 25, please take a look at our Youth Volunteering programmes for extra volunteering opportunities.

No, not at all! Our volunteers range from complete beginners to experts. While you need specific knowledge and skills for some roles, for most you just need enthusiasm and a desire to make a difference. There are lots of opportunities to learn more as you go.

If you can’t find the answers to your question please email  swtvolunteering@sussexwt.org

For questions about volunteering at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve contact: ryeswtvolunteering@sussexwt.org.uk.

For corporate Wild Work Days, email: swtcorporatevolunteering@sussexwt.org.uk 

No, unfortunately we don’t offer work placements.

You can find extra guidance in files on your MyImpact account. If you can’t find this information, please contact the volunteering team.

We take the health and safety of everyone involved with the Trust very seriously and we’ll ensure that you are safe whilst volunteering. All our events follow health and safety procedures. We conduct risk assessments and make sure there’s first aid available. The member of staff running your group will go through health and safety before you start on any task. 

When you register as a volunteer please take the time to read the Occupational Health and Safety Policy in your MyImpact portal.

Once you’ve registered as a volunteer, you will be added to the group(s) or initiative(s) that you’re interested in on your MyImpact account. 

1. Log into your MyImpact account 
2. Click on Opportunities 
3. Sign up to the volunteering dates that suit you. 

Please remember to remove yourself from any dates if you can’t make it. This means someone from the waiting list can attend instead. To cancel:

1. Log into your MyImpact account 
2. Click on Schedule
3. Select the event you can’t make
4. Click on the Remove button.

When you apply to volunteer at Sussex Wildlife Trust you’ll need to set up a MyImpact account. You can then use it to:

• find guidance you might need
• track how many hours you’ve volunteered
• sign-up for new volunteering opportunities

MyImpact is software designed by Better Impact. If you are having issues with your account, please speak to your volunteer manager or email swtvolunteering@sussexwt.org

Access MyImpact now

Yes, as a volunteer you can get your travel expenses reimbursed. Speak to your volunteer manager about how to do this. Just remember that expense claims should be agreed with us in advance and you’ll need to keep and submit any receipts.

Yes, all of our volunteers get training for the tasks they’re involved in. For some roles we offer extra training courses for volunteers who make a regular commitment.