The Trust relies on its powerful army of 1000+ volunteers to protect wild places in Hertfordshire and Middlesex. As part of Volunteers Week, we want to not only celebrate the work our volunteers do but also to recognise the tremendous benefits volunteering can have on physical and mental health.

Here, Trust volunteer, James Howe shares his own personal experience and explains what he got out of helping out:

“I recently volunteered for Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust and I can honestly say it was one of the most wonderful experiences that I've had. The atmosphere on the day amongst the group was very warm and welcoming. It felt like we all had a shared belonging and a sense that we were doing some good to help nature flourish in its natural environment. The work was immensely rewarding as we helped clear Willow from the reedbeds at Wilstone Reservoir to encourage this season's nesting birds.  

“I have a natural interest in wildlife and the environment which has shaped my entire life but this was a chance to get out and have some mindful experiences. It was one of the reasons why I felt I wanted to volunteer for the Trust in the first place, because it helps hugely with your mental health and as we all know, life can be very tough at times. 

“It was a great chance to forget about the realities of day-to-day life just for a while and also to bring back a sense of balance to my life.

“I would heartily recommend volunteering for the Trust to anyone, to get out there and meet new people and be a part of something good. It really does make a difference to the wildlife, the Trust and to you.”

Over the past 10 years, The Wildlife Trust’s 30 Days Wild annual nature challenge, which takes place every June, has helped people to get outside, enjoy and connect with nature as part of their every-day lives - and there is scientific evidence that it has delivered many benefits for health and wellbeing.

A study found a significant increase in people's health, happiness, and connection to nature through participating in 30 Days Wild. People reported feeling more relaxed, reduced stress levels, and a greater motivation to protect wildlife which lasted long after the campaign ended.

This June, could you sign up to volunteer and, like James, begin to reap the rewards whilst helping the work of the Trust? Find out more here.