Who do I contact about Employer Supported Volunteering?
If you would like to discuss ESV opportunities further, please feel free to contact a member of the central volunteering team:
Email: evp@nationaltrust.org.uk
Tel: 01793 817644 (project officer).
Or please complete our on-line enquiry form

What should I consider when organising a team build event?
Try to establish how many people there will be in your team, how many days you would like your project to last and if you need any special travel or accommodation requirements. If applicable, please establish the budget you are working within. You may also like to arrange a property tour, a presentation prior to the event, or evaluation afterwards.

Is it free to take part?
It is often necessary for property teams to use some of their budget to plan for, and deliver challenges, and we would therefore sincerely appreciate a donation to cover the purchase of tools and materials; this may include gloves, replacement saw blades, extra tools etc. However, the property can also provide a ‘wish list’, should you wish to donate materials. Public sector organisations are exempt.

Will the team be insured?
The National Trust has insurance cover for legal liability claims, either by or against volunteers working for the National Trust, resulting from damage to property or personal injury. Groups hiring National Trust basecamps for their own recreational purposes should arrange their own insurance cover.

What is a typical day like?
The usual start time is 9.30am. You are introduced to the property and your supervisors for the day. Between 9.30am and 10am, there is a Health and Safety briefing, along with a tool talk and demonstration. The task will be explained to you, and any questions answered. There is a break for lunch (45 mins to 1 hour) and volunteering continues through to 4pm / 4:30pm.

What should we bring with us?
For your comfort and safety, please wear stout outdoor shoes, and avoid jeans and trainers. Wellies may be suitable, depending on the type of task you will be doing. Please wear layered and waterproof clothing. Bring along sun protection and water. Also, some people find a garden kneeling mat is useful, which can also be used for lunch time seating.

Will there be a safe place to leave our things?
You are welcome to take your things with you to the worksite, or lock them in a safe place (in the Land Rover or property office). We do ask that you take responsibility for your own belongings.

What are the lunch time arrangements?
Please bring a packed lunch with you. There may also be a break for mid-morning / afternoon refreshments, so a flask or light snacks are also recommended. Several properties have a restaurant on site, serving hot soups, sandwiches and cakes. Outside catering is also an option. We are happy to discuss your lunch arrangements in more detail.

Do you provide accommodation for residential visits?
Should you wish to add a residential element to your event, there are 32 basecamps, of varying sizes nationwide. See our basecamps pages for more information.

What opportunities are there for conference activities?
Many National Trust properties are available for corporate hire and it is sometimes possible for a meeting to be incorporated as part of an EVP event.

Are children permitted to accompany our team?
We welcome family involvement and encourage children, and young people, to volunteer. We stress that children on an ESV day must be supervised by an appropriate adult known to the child. Please bring this to our attention at the earliest convenience; your National Trust team leader will be able to speak to you in more detail.