Nature Buddy

Nature Buddies inspire and support local people, exploring the green spaces on our doorsteps together.

Our boroughs have entrusted our Nature Buddies with the opportunity to accompany members of the community in our incredible parks and open spaces, bringing people together to enjoy and learn from local nature. 

With supportive training and induction, Nature Buddy volunteers are matched with members of the local community at risk of isolation, who may not currently spend time outdoors. The walks are up to 50 minutes long and will be around the area of the Hounslow borough. Nature Buddies support their community member to develop confidence, mobility, awareness and hope through visiting local natural environments.  The activities and green spaces visited will be chosen between the Nature Buddy and the supported individual; you decide together what is most helpful, convenient and enjoyable. A Nature Buddy is someone who believes in the benefits of health and wellbeing, outdoor learning, and environmental stewardship. 

Benefits: 

• A fantastic personal learning and development opportunity.
• Rewarding activity directly helping people at risk of isolation to engage with outdoor spaces and make new friends.
• Will make a difference to someone who needs your support and wants to be part of this exciting innovative programme.
• Ideal opportunity to gain experience in social care and environmental sectors.
• Regular access to enjoying time outdoors in company, visiting the amazing nature in our boroughs.
• Will join a small friendly team and develop your skills.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: If you have specific physical or other access needs that you would like to discuss with us, we welcome conversation to ensure you can benefit from this role.

Time Commitment: Up to 1 hour weekly for periods of 6-8 weeks at a time. We love to work long-term with volunteers, so we provide solid support and training to make this a no-brainer for you. There are many opportunities with our organisation to carry on the great work.

What skills do I need?

No special qualifications or experience needed.

Volunteers should be:

• Understanding
• Patient
• Empathetic
• Enthusiastic about the benefits of outdoor environments

You will be given induction training into the various aspects of the work. This will include 3 group sessions and a handbook to keep track of what you're learning. You will receive ongoing training, guidance as well as peer support at volunteer meetings. You'll work closely with our Let's Go! team who are there to help you and the participants. Nature Buddies are a local network of similarly-motivated people who help each other too!

NOTE: We will provide a  Disclosure & Barring Service screening which must be clear.

When do I need to be available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Details

1 hour weekly for periods of 6-8 weeks at a time. We love to work long-term with volunteers, so we provide solid support and training to make this a no-brainer for you.