Volunteering takes many different forms, from working with a local charity in their shop, to being a carer for a sick family member. The volunteering needs to be on a regular basis over a period of time (the length of time varies according to the award level).
Here are a few suggestions;
Local;
The RHS have introduced us to Kazia, the manager at Sandringham park in Wetherby. There are quite a few gardening projects she’d like help with.
The team at Beck wood, Collingham, always need volunteers to help maintain the wood and Collingham “beach” (which we regularly use for activities).
The Scout young leader scheme is a popular volunteering option; https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/running-an-explorer-unit/explorer-scout-young-leaders-scheme/ We have many of our Explorers helping with Beavers, Cubs or Scouts, and the scheme is led in Wetherby by its own leader, Claire.
Our regional commissioner, Ian, helps at Wetherby food bank, (part of the Trussell trust) and is trying to get the evidence together that there are plenty of under 18s wanting to get involved. Please let us know so we can add to the weight of evidence so he can persuade those in charge to allow under 18s.
If you are interested in these, let a leader know and we’ll introduce you.
Further afield;
The Yorkshire dales national park are looking for volunteers to help with anything from events to regular maintenance of their sites.
The Yorkshire peat partnership need volunteers to bring peat areas back to their original state. Only 3% of the world’s land area is peat bog, but it store 30% of the carbon dioxide; more than trees. Help a vital climate crisis project.
Yorkshire wildlife trust run a scheme of voluntary traineeships that help work towards a career in conservation, as well as needing general volunteers.
The National trust need volunteers to maintain woodland at Hardcastle crags (Wuthering heights country); Slow the Flow – Natural Flood Management at Hardcastle Crags | National Trust
If you feel these are too far afield, go through the YWT and National trust and other similar websites for more local volunteer opportunities. Another good source is simply ask a question on local area / town Facebook groups. Another way is to think creatively about your hobbies; if you does any regular sport, instructors often need help, libraries need volunteers etc..
There’s also the Royal voluntary service to find opportunities and St. John’s ambulance.
Wetherby Whalers E.S.U. 