Volunteer with BCA

Since BCA’s establishment in 1967, volunteers have been central to developing and shaping the organisation into what it is today.

BCA was formed by volunteers and remains volunteer lead, with volunteers complimenting the work of a small staff team headed by the CEO, Dave Green. The team work to the direction of the board of trustees which is enhanced by the input of BCA members. Volunteers have always supported activities such as woodland conservation, but since April 2024 have been expanding involvement throughout our operations, recognising the needs of modern visitors and enhanced community engagement opportunities.

Some of the current volunteer roles include:

  • Woodland Conservation
  • Woodland Patrol
  • Engagement Volunteer
  • Guided Walk Leader
  • Maintenance Volunteer
  • Membership Recruitment Volunteer
  • BCA Ambassador

Volunteering around busy lives

We recognise that people have busy lives, yet still wish to volunteer but without the weekly commitment. One of our more recent initiatives has been the move towards micro volunteering, offering mini tasks or mini commitments. This has allowed people to directly support BCA with a range of activities that may have otherwise struggled to find the time to volunteer.

For young people aged 14-17 we have a great opportunity to join our youth conservation programme. This group comes together to learn new skills in conservation, woodland management, bushcraft and more, as well as undertaking fun activities! This group is managed by our highly skilled Woodland Ranger and supported by volunteers.  Express your interest by emailing volunteering@buxtoncivicassociation.org.uk.

Corporate volunteering with BCA offers a unique opportunity for teams to make a meaningful impact by helping conserve and maintain our beautiful woodlands for visitors and future generations. Volunteers can get involved in a variety of seasonal activities, from woodland maintenance including footpaths and dry-stone walls to biodiversity projects like tree planting and invasive species control, and habitat restoration—tailored to current conservation needs.

Our corporate volunteering packages can be customised to suit your team’s goals and can include catering options if required. It’s a rewarding way to connect with nature, support a local charity, and give back to the community.

Contact us to find out more and get involved.

Booking information

As a charity, we rely on corporate funding to help us care for our woodlands and other valuable assets. We are fortunate to have dedicated volunteers who support us with essential maintenance and conservation work. Your contribution plays a vital role in sustaining our efforts and ensuring these natural spaces can be enjoyed by generations to come.

Suggestion donation

  • Up to 5 people £500 +VAT
  • 6-10 people £750 +VAT
  • 11-15 people £1000 +VAT

Our taster sessions have proved invaluable to those who want to try something new. These range from organised woodland sessions, to supporting other staff or volunteers at events. They are a great pre-application way to meet the team and see if you would enjoy a specific volunteer opportunity.

  • Learn new skills and gain valuable work experience.
  • Pathway to employment or study
  • Make new friends
  • Better physical, mental health and wellbeing
  • Giving something back to the community
  • Builds self-confidence and self-esteem
  • Sense of connection to others in the community
  • Provides a sense of purpose
  • Prevents feelings of isolation
  • Ignites passion

Skilled volunteers

At BCA, we are seeking skilled and experienced volunteers to join our dynamic team. We are looking for professionals who can bring their expertise to support our staff with a range of projects and exciting activities we have planned for the future. Your skills and passion can help us grow, innovate, and make a meaningful impact in our community. If you are ready to contribute your talents and be part of something special, we would love to hear from you!

Our partnerships

Appointed in April 2024, as part of a successful grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, our Volunteering Development Manager’s focus is to diversify and increase volunteering opportunities across the organisation as well as implementing new systems and processes.

In partnership with employability, disability, and mental health organisations we have welcomed new volunteers who are using volunteering as a pathway to employment, and socialisation, aiding their mental health.

Why I volunteer at BCA

“I began my volunteering journey with the BCA at a time where I’d finished my college course on animals and conservation, not knowing how to involve myself in that area of work. Volunteering in the beautiful woodlands provided me with peace of mind and gave me a purpose through conserving the areas natural beauty. This and the help of the BCA’s Woodland Team has greatly helped me progress in my chosen career path.
My favourite thing about volunteering for the BCA (besides having a positive impact on the environment and learning new skills) is always being surrounded by such amazing, like-minded staff and volunteers who are always great to chat with and leave me coming back from volunteer sessions feeling understood, valued and celebrated. I would not be where I am today without them.”

Ethan (BCA Volunteer)

How to apply

We would be delighted to welcome you to our volunteer team. To get started, please apply using one of the links below based on your primary area of interest — choosing an area now won’t limit the volunteering opportunities available to you in the future.

On receipt of your application, our Volunteering Development Manager will be in touch.

Please send any questions to volunteering@buxtoncivicassociation.org.uk

Support BCA’s essential environmental and heritage conservation work

We look forward to welcoming you to our growing volunteering team!

Become a member

Membership offers a range of exclusive benefits, from discounted events to free parking at Poole’s Cavern & Buxton Country Park, along with the satisfaction of supporting vital conservation and educational projects in Buxton and the wider Peak District region.