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Volunteering

Discover what kind of opportunities are available to get involved with coast and countryside teams and community groups.

Improving Meadows and Woodlands

Find out how you can get involved with our project at Humber Bridge Country Park! Volunteer opportunities, family activities and more as we all work together to bring flowers to the meadows and plant more trees in this beautiful nature reserve.

About the project

Countryside Access

There are a variety of roles available to help keep our countryside spaces, such as nature reserves, walking routes and picnic areas, clean and safe for everyone. All current opportunities and how to apply can be found on the Time2Volunteer website and searching for ERYC Countryside Access Team on the opportunities directory.

Time2Volunteer with Countryside Access

Volunteering at nature reserves

At present we have new volunteering opportunities for you to help look after the nature reserves. Be a Nature Reserve Volunteer at:

Humber Bridge Country Park,
Eastrington Ponds, and
Oak Hill.

Coming soon: In due course more opportunities at Danes Dyke, Flamborough South landing, and Flamborough outer Headland will become available.

You can also join the community groups that take care of some sites. Discover more about the Friends groups at Oak Hill and Humber Bridge Country Park in the community volunteering section.

Types of roles you could be doing

Roles vary depending on the skill set of individuals and the reserve. You can choose to do one or a mix of needed roles, which can include, but not limited to:

Conservation

Depending on the reserve you choose, you could be pruning, help with fencing, planting trees, bird box projects, coppicing, path improvements and more.

Litter picking

One of our most popular volunteering activities and easiest to do any time. This can be done alone or in groups, and is a very valuable and helps protect wildlife.

Wardening

Be our eye and ears in the reserve! Report back to the team about any concerns, damaged items, repairs that need attention or wildlife sightings.

Wildlife recording

Are you interested in wildlife or want to carry out surveys in the area you are interested in? An up to date record of wildlife in our reserves is critical for habitat management.

Photography

We need photos taken through different seasons and times of day. Images are used on our website, social channels and promotional printed materials. Credit is given.

Helping with events

Help with walks or to set up trails and materials, welcome participants and assist with fun activities exploring the reserve and its wildlife.

Volunteering with Walking the Riding and walking routes

We are also offering opportunities to help manage, expand and improve our Walking the Riding directory of walks showcasing the best countryside walks this area has to offer.

We have opportunities to work on our countryside paths which form a key part of visits to our East Riding countryside.

We are looking for countryside path surveyors, and local people who can keep an eye on a few paths, volunteers for our National Trails like the Yorkshire Wolds Way and KCIII England Coast Path called National Trail Rangers.

In addition for those who are keen to try their hand at some practical work we have opportunities for countryside path wardens to undertake basic work on:

Signposts and waymarking

vegetation clearance

basic repairs to gates and steps

Opportunities coming soon
Please note, our volunteer roles for Walking the Riding will be made available on Time2Volunteer in the next few weeks.

All current opportunities are listed on the Time2Volunteer website.

Time2Volunteer with Countryside Access

Community groups

Friends groups

The Friends of the Humber Bridge Country Park

Join a group of volunteers interested in the wildlife of the nature reserve. The old quarry has chalk cliffs, ponds, woodland and meadows so there is plenty to do! All are welcome to join in with weekend conservation activities at the park, take part in watching wildlife, carry out surveys or come along to a workshop or talk.

The Friends of the Oak Hill Country Park

Working in partnership with the East Riding and other private landowners to create a brand new green space on the edge of Goole. The site has a range of habitats with woodland, grassland, scrub and ponds and there is huge scope for helping with conservation tasks, surveys and helping other visitors enjoy the site. The group is often active on a weekend and anyone is welcome to join in.

Litter picking and beach cleans

Active Coast beach cleans

Through summer and select dates in the year, the East Riding of Yorkshire Council Active Coast team work with local groups to organise beach clean days. Check the What's On listings for when events are available.

Surfers Against Sewage

Surfers Against Sewage Hornsea carry out beach cleans and can provide tools and bags for volunteers.

The Wombles of Beverley

A Constituted Community Group of volunteers picking up litter within Beverley town and its surrounding villages. All ages and abilities welcome, joining is free.

Wildlife care and protection

Marine Conservation Society UK

The MCS is a charity working for a cleaner, better-protected, healthier ocean, for everyone to enjoy. There are various ways to volunteer listed on their website.

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust

There are various ways to volunteer locally with YWT from helping with events to wildlife surveys. A list of current opportunities can be found on their website.

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)

There are various ways to support the RSPB listed on their website, from volunteering, fundraising, planting trees and more.

Become a British Divers Marine Life Rescue Volunteer

BDMLR medics are all volunteers who can become involved in the organisation as little or as much as they want. BDMLR provides ongoing training to ensure medics are as highly trained as possible.

The Conservation Volunteers

"Join thousands of people and communities across the UK connecting to nature on their doorsteps and contributing to its protection."

Disclaimer
These are external organisations that operate in the area. East Riding of Yorkshire Council are not liable for information found of these websites or any contact you choose to have with these groups.

Benefits of volunteering

Why should you volunteer for coast and countryside opportunities? Volunteering in the countryside can be a truly rewarding experience, offering a wealth of benefits for both yourself and the communities you're helping. By giving your time and energy in the countryside you are building personal and wellbeing skills, making an impact on your community as well as other advantages.

Connecting with nature

Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the natural world, reducing stress and boosting your mood. Breathe in fresh air, witness stunning landscapes, and listen to the calming sounds of birdsong.

Learning new skills

Gain practical experience in areas like wildlife conservation, traditional crafts, or outdoor activities. Expand your knowledge and develop new talents that can be personally fulfilling and even professionally valuable.

Improving physical health

Get active in the great outdoors! Volunteering often involves physical tasks like planting trees, building trails, or maintaining gates and signs, leading to increased fitness and overall well-being.

Mental health boost

Studies have shown that spending time in nature can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Volunteering in the countryside can provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of daily life and promote mental clarity and calmness.

Making a difference

Contribute to the preservation and development of rural communities. Your efforts, however big or small, can have a real impact on environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and the lives of people living in the countryside.

Building connections

Meet new people who share your passion for the environment and rural life. Develop friendships and a sense of belonging within a supportive community.

Promoting understanding

Bridge the gap between urban and rural communities. Volunteering can help foster mutual respect and appreciation for the different ways of life.

A sense of purpose

Find meaning and satisfaction in knowing that you're making a positive difference in the world. Volunteering can boost your self-esteem and confidence.

Disconnecting from technology

Take a break from the constant digital buzz and reconnect with the simple pleasures of nature. Unplug and recharge your mind and soul.

Exploring new hobbies and interests

Discover hidden talents and passions you never knew you had. Volunteering can open doors to new experiences and personal growth.

Remember, the specific benefits you'll experience will depend on the type of volunteering you choose and the local environment. However, one thing is for sure: volunteering in the countryside is a fantastic way to give back, learn new things, connect with nature, and make a positive impact on the world.

So, if you're looking for a rewarding and meaningful way to spend your time, consider volunteering in the coast and countryside. It could be the perfect escape you've been searching for!