Involving people in conservation
The Trust recognises that everyone can help to sustain biodiversity and believes that the more people are aware of conservation, the more they will want to help to protect wildlife.
The Trust promotes the view that people from all sections of society should have access to wildlife and the natural world for enjoyment, learning and well-being. Contact with the natural environment improves our mental and physical health, and enhances our quality of life. The key ways we try to involve people in our work are by:
Inspiring young people
We want all children and young people to have direct contact with the Trust at least once before they reach 18 through our education centres. We also run Wildlife Watch Groups to involve children in learning about wildlife outside school. Children who cannot join a local Watch group can still join Wildlife Watch and receive colourful information about wildlife through the post.
Helping people enjoy and understand wild places
Our nature reserves and education centres are open to all and used for events for all sections of the community.
Encouraging action for wildlife
We encourage individuals and communities to take informed, appropriate action for wildlife in their area. If you want help or advice please get in touch with your county office.
Providing volunteering opportunities
From practical work on our nature reserves to helping out in our offices, the Trust relies on the help of hundreds of volunteers through our volunteering opportunities. Most of our nature reserve wardens are dedicated volunteers, while others prefer to help run a local group of Wildlife Trust members who support the Trust. We also have opportunities for committed volunteers who wish to gain enough experience to make a career in conservation.
Encouraging businesses and public bodies to take action
We promote our work to our corporate members, who are encouraged to take action with practical sessions on our nature reserves. We also work closely with local authorities and government agencies and encourage them to do the best thing for wildlife.