Dorset Wildlife Trust is appealing for local people, aged 18 and over, to help with its wildlife conservation work in the Isle of Purbeck, Weymouth, and Portland areas. New recruits are needed to join a keen group of volunteers at both the Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre, Kimmeridge, and the Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre, Portland.  

With the current climate and ecological crises and increasing pressures from human activities, wildlife on the land and in the sea is under threat, so our conservation work has never been more important. 

Local people who would like to do something valuable for nature and have time to offer on a regular basis, are invited to take part. No expertise is required as all volunteers will be provided with free training to equip them with the basic knowledge and skills necessary. Our aim is to enable those visiting our centres to leave feeling empowered to make simple changes in their everyday lives that benefit the planet and help tackle the environmental issues of our day. This is part of Dorset Wildlife Trust’s strategy to inspire and empower 1 in 4 people to take action for nature by 2030.    

Julie Hatcher, Wild Seas Centre Officer, said: “We have an amazing team of volunteers at Kimmeridge with a wide range of backgrounds and ages. What they all have in common is a passion for wildlife and a desire to help ensure its well-being. The Wild Seas Centre sits in a stunning location and offers a great opportunity to do something both enjoyable and worthwhile." 

Wild Chesil Centre Officer Sarah Hodgson said: “By joining our volunteer team at Chesil, you have the opportunity to learn valuable new skills, help local wildlife and share your enthusiasm for the natural world with visitors to this special site”. 

Open sessions at both the Wild Seas Centre and the Wild Chesil Centre will be held in January, when you can meet the staff and volunteers and find out more about what we do. A limited number of vacancies are available at both visitor centres, so if you think you’re suited to join our hardworking teams, please contact the relevant centre to register your interest.  

Find out more about volunteering.