Volunteering in Lake District

Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a challenging experience. Volunteering is a fantastic way to integrate into the local community, meet new people, and make a positive impact. The Lake District, offers a variety of volunteering opportunities that cater to different interests and skills. Whether you're passionate about conservation, education, or community support, there's something for everyone. Here's a guide to help expats explore volunteering opportunities in the Lake District.

Fix the Fells

Fix the Fells is a volunteer program dedicated to maintaining and repairing upland paths in the Lake District. Volunteers work alongside experienced team leaders to protect the landscape from erosion. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors while making a difference. Volunteers typically commit to one or two days per month. No prior experience is needed, as training is provided.

Website: fixthefells.co.uk
Location(s): Various sites across the Lake District
Time Commitment: 1-2 days per month

National Trust

The National Trust is a charity that preserves historic houses, gardens, and ancient monuments. In the Lake District, volunteers support various roles, from conservation work to visitor engagement. The time commitment varies depending on the role, but it usually ranges from one day per week to a few days per month.

Website: nationaltrust.org.uk
Location(s): Various National Trust sites in the Lake District
Time Commitment: 1 day per week to a few days per month

Cumbria Wildlife Trust

Cumbria Wildlife Trust aims to protect and conserve the wildlife and wild places of Cumbria. Volunteers can get involved in practical conservation tasks, wildlife surveys, and educational events. The trust offers flexible volunteering options, with opportunities available throughout the week.

Website: cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk
Location(s): Various nature reserves and sites across Cumbria
Time Commitment: Flexible, opportunities available throughout the week

Lake District National Park Authority

The Lake District National Park Authority offers a range of volunteering opportunities, from conservation work to supporting visitors. Volunteers can help with path maintenance, dry stone walling, or providing information to visitors. The time commitment varies depending on the role, but it usually involves a few days per month.

Website: lakedistrict.gov.uk
Location(s): Various sites across the Lake District National Park
Time Commitment: A few days per month

Mountain Rescue

Mountain Rescue teams in the Lake District provide a vital service, assisting those in need on the fells. Volunteers need to be physically fit and have good navigation skills. Training is provided, and the time commitment involves regular training sessions and being on call for rescue operations.

Website: mountain.rescue.org.uk
Location(s): Various Mountain Rescue teams across the Lake District
Time Commitment: Regular training sessions and on-call availability

Cumbria Action for Sustainability

Cumbria Action for Sustainability (CAfS) is a charity that promotes sustainable living and climate action. Volunteers can support various projects, from energy efficiency initiatives to community events. The time commitment is flexible and depends on the specific project.

Website: cafs.org.uk
Location(s): Various locations across Cumbria
Time Commitment: Flexible, project-dependent

Eden Rivers Trust

Eden Rivers Trust is a charity dedicated to the conservation and restoration of the River Eden and its tributaries. Volunteers can assist with river clean-ups, habitat improvement, and educational events. The time commitment varies, with opportunities available throughout the year.

Website: edenrt.org
Location(s): Various sites along the River Eden
Time Commitment: Flexible, opportunities available throughout the year

The Calvert Trust

The Calvert Trust enables people with disabilities to benefit from outdoor activities in the countryside. Volunteers support these activities, helping participants to enjoy experiences they may not otherwise have access to. The time commitment can vary, with both regular and one-off opportunities available.

Website: calvertlakes.org.uk
Location(s): The Lake District Calvert Trust, Keswick
Time Commitment: Various, regular and one-off opportunities available

Cumbria Family Support

Cumbria Family Support provides practical and emotional support to families in need. Volunteers can assist with various roles, from befriending to supporting community events. The time commitment is flexible and depends on the specific role.

Website: cumbriafamilysupport.org.uk
Location(s): Various locations across Cumbria
Time Commitment: Flexible, role-dependent

Cumbria Community Foundation

Cumbria Community Foundation supports grassroots charities and community groups across Cumbria. Volunteers can help with fundraising, event planning, and administrative tasks. The time commitment is flexible and can be tailored to suit the volunteer's availability.

Website: cumbriafoundation.org
Location(s): Dovenby, Cockermouth, and various locations across Cumbria
Time Commitment: Flexible, tailored to volunteer's availability

Lake District Mobility

Lake District Mobility provides all-terrain mobility scooters for hire, enabling people with limited mobility to access the countryside. Volunteers help with maintenance, administration, and supporting users. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities available throughout the year.

Website: lakedistrictmobility.org
Location(s): Various sites across the Lake District
Time Commitment: Flexible, opportunities available throughout the year