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Volunteering in West Cornwall

Volunteers show visitors the local wildlife from the watchpoint at Lizard Point, Cornwall
Volunteers show visitors the local wildlife from the watchpoint at Lizard Point, Cornwall | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Volunteers play a huge part in caring for nature and habitats in the countryside in West Cornwall and we’re always looking for enthusiastic people to join us. From pony checkers to hands on practical tasks volunteers to chatting to visitors at the Mayon Lookout, there’s a volunteer role here for you.

Current Opportunities

Pony checker 

The team of pony checkers provide welfare checks on the Dartmoor herd daily at various sites throughout West Cornwall, making the sure the correct number of ponies are in the right location, free from injury and have access to water. 
 
This role is more isolated than other volunteering work as the checks are done on an individual basis, often in isolated and wild terrain. An enthusiasm for the outdoors in all weathers is a must! We’ll provide you with anything you need to do the role and will provide full training on how to complete a pony check. 

Mayon Lookout 

We’re looking for enthusiastic people to help inspire visitors by telling the story of the Mayon Lookout and the conservation of the surrounding countryside near Sennen Cove July – September. 

From its humble beginnings as a coastguard lookout to its protection from development, the Lookout is a prime location for wildlife watching, from dolphins and whales to various birds who make their home long the cliff, including the famous Cornish Chough.   

Anybody interested in joining the team doesn’t need any special skills or to be a wildlife expert, the team are looking for happy, friendly people with a warm smile and plenty of enthusiasm!

Practical Volunteer 

We are looking for volunteers who are enthusiastic about nature conservation and working outdoors. You could be taking on tasks from clearing scrub in winter, bashing bracken in summer, helping to maintain fences, footpaths and Cornish hedges – the list is endless!  
 
This role will suit people who enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions and want to learn new skills. Don’t worry about how much or little experience you have, we’ll provide all the kit and support you need. 

Trust10  

We’re looking for people with a passion for the outdoors and helping people, and proud to represent the National Trust, to help us with the monthly Trust10 which takes place at Godolphin on the last Sunday each month (date varies in December).  

This role involves facilitating delivery of a 10k running event, putting out route markers and marshalling at key points around the route. You might be needed to complete checklists for new/potential equipment as we trial new ideas and help prepare start/finish areas and assist with route and safety checks. 
 
If you’re keen to help but unable to commit to regular volunteering throughout the year, this role could be for you – especially if you’re somebody who loves meeting other people and you’re cheerful and positive, even if the weather’s not on your side! 

 

Why join us?

There are lots of reasons to join us; making the move to volunteer could be the best decision you ever make. 

  • Become part of a friendly and dedicated team 
  • Meet people from all walks of life and forge new friendships 
  • Utilise your existing skills and learn new ones 
  • Strengthen your CV and help to develop your career 
  • Enjoy the great outdoors 
  • Learn about the history of this special place.

 

Get in touch

To find out more or to express your interest in one of our volunteering roles please email westcornwallcountryside@nationaltrust.org.uk or phone 07771 978763. 

 

Thank you

Thank you to all our volunteers who give their time to support the National Trust in many different roles. 

House Experience Volunteers at work in the Ambassador Room at Croft Castle, Herefordshire

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Whether you're looking to help in the great outdoors, work with the public or get up close and personal with the houses, take a look at what's happening near you.

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