As part of the Surrey Green Social Prescribing Programme, Surrey County Council is developing a First Step Volunteering ‘Test and Learn’ pilot to provide opportunities for people to try out environment volunteering.

The pilot is looking for individuals and groups who would like to try out environment volunteering, as well as organisations who would benefit from some extra volunteer support.

The project aims to increase the number of local volunteers and empower residents to make lasting changes for the environment, climate change and biodiversity.

Volunteers will take part in taster sessions with local groups working on activities including waste reduction, energy projects, flood resilience and more. There is no commitment expected; the sessions are just to introduce you to the opportunities available.

The pilot is particularly looking for volunteers from their three priority groups: young people aged 16 – 25; people from minority ethnic communities; and people with mental health needs.

There are no specific skills required for volunteers as the skill set will depend on the volunteering role you are trying, but an interest in improving your local environment and a ‘can do’ attitude will go a long way.

To find out more about the scheme and register interest as a volunteer or an organisation, visit the Volunteer Woking website.