Green space volunteers

Who can volunteer?

We have volunteers from a variety of backgrounds and abilities. We work with other organisations (such as Go Volunteer Glos, Aim Up and local businesses) to try and involve as wide a range of people as possible.

Volunteers must be 18 years or over, as organised volunteering has to have the right safeguarding and protections in place to ensure safety and many volunteering activities are not suitable for younger people. The only exception is for one-off opportunities where 16-17 year olds can volunteer as long as they are accompanied and signed in by a parent or guardian. Please get in touch if you want to help in our local green space and we can find the right role for you.

The application form asks you to disclose any criminal record, but a criminal record does not usually mean you won’t be able to volunteer.

Where can I volunteer?

To volunteer with CBC’s rangers please have a look at our green space volunteering page to see what groups are being run currently. 

What type of work do working parties do?

Volunteering with the rangers allows you to make a real impact to the local green spaces on your door step. This work can impact our local wildlife and our local communities. We run specific working parties at King George V (KGV) playing field, Sandford park, Griffiths Avenue, Cox’s Meadow, Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens and QEII park. Work can involve: native wild meadow sowing, planting edible hedges, planting orchards, planting bulbs, clearing vegetation, creating dead hedges, painting park railings, planting new planting schemes.

What do I need to bring?

We provide all the tools, including gloves and high vis, however if you do have your own gloves, we would recommend bringing them. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Waterproofs and a bottle of water are a must and don’t forget sturdy footwear – boots would be ideal. Sun cream and hats are important in hot weather.

Can I volunteer for my business volunteering day?

Please visit our business group volunteering page to learn more about volunteering as a group. If you want to volunteer without your business group please sign up as an individual volunteer either with the rangers or by contacting an individual group directly. 

What do I need to do before I volunteer in a park?

Before you can come and volunteer in a park we need you to fill out the individual form and have a look at our volunteer policy or if you are a business group go to the business group volunteering page.

Individual volunteer sign up form

What happens on my first day?

On your first day of volunteering, you will meet the ranger and the rest of the group at the agreed meeting place. The ranger will then introduce you to the other volunteers in the group (they are all very friendly and welcoming!). The ranger will then do a toolbox talk where they talk about the job list and any significant risks for the day. You will then pick a job and the ranger will buddy you up with someone doing the same job to give you a friendly face to work beside. It’s then time to get stuck in! 

Can I just turn up and volunteer?

No. You are more than welcome to pop along to say hello and feel the vibe. However to be under our insurance you will need to fill out our individual application form at least 14 days before you volunteer to give our team time to process your application.

Who do I contact if I have a question?

Don’t hesitate to contact us about your volunteering experience on [email protected].