Volunteering in West Cornwall

Current Opportunities

Pony checker

The team of pony checkers provide welfare checks on the Dartmoor herd daily at various sites throughout West Cornwall, making the sure the correct number of ponies are in the right location, free from injury and have access to water.

This role is more isolated than other volunteering work as the checks are done on an individual basis, often in isolated and wild terrain. An enthusiasm for the outdoors in all weathers is a must! We’ll provide you with anything you need to do the role and will provide full training on how to complete a pony check.

Mayon Lookout

We’re looking for enthusiastic people to help inspire visitors by telling the story of the Mayon Lookout and the conservation of the surrounding countryside near Sennen Cove July – September.

From its humble beginnings as a coastguard lookout to its protection from development, the Lookout is a prime location for wildlife watching, from dolphins and whales to various birds who make their home long the cliff, including the famous Cornish Chough.  

Anybody interested in joining the team doesn’t need any special skills or to be a wildlife expert, the team are looking for happy, friendly people with a warm smile and plenty of enthusiasm!

Dog Ranger

This is a new role we’re developing in the autumn, ideally for people who are dog owners and able to bring their dog along with them. This is not a ‘dog police’ role, but an opportunity to chat to people in a friendly manner, offer dog poo bags, tell people where the nearest dog bin is, let them know which areas dogs need to be on lead and areas where dogs can be off the lead, and generally provide a positive site presence.

Practical Volunteer

We are looking for volunteers who are enthusiastic about nature conservation and working outdoors. You could be taking on tasks from clearing scrub in winter, bashing bracken in summer, helping to maintain fences, footpaths and Cornish hedges – the list is endless!

This role will suit people who enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions and want to learn new skills. Don’t worry about how much or little experience you have, we’ll provide all the kit and support you need.

Trust10

We’re looking for people with a passion for the outdoors and helping people, and proud to represent the National Trust, to help us with the monthly Trust10 which takes place at Godolphin on the last Sunday each month (date varies in December).

This role involves facilitating delivery of a 10k running event, putting out route markers and marshalling at key points around the route. You might be needed to complete checklists for new/potential equipment as we trial new ideas and help prepare start/finish areas and assist with route and safety checks.

If you’re keen to help but unable to commit to regular volunteering throughout the year, this role could be for you – especially if you’re somebody who loves meeting other people and you’re cheerful and positive, even if the weather’s not on your side!

Why join us?

There are lots of reasons to join us; making the move to volunteer could be the best decision you ever make.

• Become part of a friendly and dedicated team
• Meet people from all walks of life and forge new friendships
• Utilise your existing skills and learn new ones
• Strengthen your CV and help to develop your career
• Enjoy the great outdoors
• Learn about the history of this special place.

Get in touch

To find out more or to express your interest in one of our volunteering roles please email westcornwallcountryside@nationaltrust.org.uk or phone 07771 978763.

Thank you

Thank you to all our volunteers who give their time to support the National Trust in many different roles.