It’s time to give back, do your bit and take up one of the many volunteering opportunities in Kent. From one off days, to weekend work (perfect for a weekend away with a difference) and volunteering positions at some of our biggest events, these ideas will soon have you rolling up your sleeves to get stuck in. What’s more, with our numerous historic buildings, beaches and magnificent countryside, you’ll have the chance to learn new skills, conserve our history and make a difference in your own little corner of Kent.
As this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain now’s the perfect time to pay tribute to the few who gave so much. From assisting in the museum and welcoming visitors, to helping in the café and giving talks, the museum is always looking for friendly-faced volunteers to lend a hand in inspiring generations. Plus, as the museum is often looking for help over the weekend, you can even fit your volunteering around your own working schedule.
The Medway Valley Countryside Partnership needs your help! Along with pond creation, building woodland steps, paths and tree planting, you’ll be treated to plenty of tea and camaraderie at the award-winning Tuesday and Thursday Action Groups. Plus, as the Partnership has been delivering practical conservation projects since 1988, you can guarantee your valuable time will be spent actively making a difference to the Kent landscape and wildlife.
It doesn’t stop there, with 40 acres of landscape to tend to, the Kent Wildlife Trust Larches Team at Detling near Maidstone are expanding their team and welcoming new volunteers. Join the group and you can expect glorious colour in autumn, wildflowers in spring and summer, and birds of prey sightings come winter. Not only that, but with path repair, weeding and wildlife surveys to be done, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a green-fingered whizz or DIY pro, you’ll find plenty to turn your talents to.
Trust us, there’s much more to the East Kent Railway than trains! Climb aboard here and you’ll find ancient woodland, vintage vehicles and of course, a train or two! What’s more, as the railway aims to educate families and public about forgotten coalmines and the historic railway network, you’ll be doing your bit to share Kent’s rich history too.
Fancy going behind the scenes at some of Kent’s magnificent castles? Volunteer with English Heritage and you’ll have the chance to step into Walmer Castle and Dover Castle and get hands on with cleaning and conservation. Muck in with the teams at the castles and you’ll have the chance to help preserve a piece of England’s history – now doesn’t that sound impressive?
Did you know you can actually step behind the scenes of the iconic place where Winston Churchill once lived? Join the volunteers at Charwell on 28th January and 14th February for a coffee and you’ll discover the many volunteering opportunities up for grabs, whether in the garden or up close and personal with the historic house itself. While just down the road on 25th January, the team at Quebec House, home of the famous General Wolfe, will also be inviting prospective volunteers in for a coffee morning to find out more about working in amongst the splendid Georgian surroundings.
With a site as big as the Dockyard, it’s no surprise this Kent icon relies on hundreds of volunteers to keep things ship shape. From caring for the historic buildings, artefacts and warships, to conducting historical research and supporting with the wide range of filming that takes place here, this crew of volunteers is a hardworking bunch. With over 35,000 hours of volunteering needed each year, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and climb aboard.
You may already know that Kent has a pretty expansive coastline, so why not do your bit to keep it looking magnificent? When it comes to volunteering, there are no excuses on the Isle of Thanet as they only want two minutes of your time for a quick beach clean! Go on, grab a bag and a litter picker and sweep the beaches. And once you’re done? We recommend grabbing some fish and chips, sitting on the beach and admiring your handiwork.
You’ll have no doubt heard of Rochester Cathedral, but did you know it takes a team of more than 300 volunteers to keep it running? It’s no wonder when you consider this magnificent structure has been around since 1080! So go on, whether your smile was made for welcoming visitors from across the world, or you fancy getting your hands dirty with a bit of brass cleaning, pay them a visit and see how you can help keep the cathedral looking good as new.
Did you know that if you visit the elegant 18th century Belmont House you’ll be shown around exclusively by volunteers? Well, now’s your chance to become one of those enthusiastic and knowledgeable heroes. Join the team and you’ll be able to volunteer as little or as often as you like and you’ll have the chance to learn all about the house’s history, collection of clocks (there’ll be plenty of time for that later) and the part the Harris family played in cricket, Kent and Empire.
Umm, do you fancy being a part of one of Kent’s biggest 2020 events? We thought so. You may already know the 149th Open is coming to Sandwich, well you can be one of the volunteers to help make it happen this summer. Volunteers are needed to help welcome visitors, provide information about the 149th Open and generally ensure visitors make the most of their time in Sandwich. Plus, with training and Level Two accredited volunteering, stewarding and team leading qualifications up for grabs, these positions are well worth your time!
Take a swing
