Two volunteers having a chat and a cup of tea

Be Part of Something Bigger: Volunteer with the Heart of England Forest

10 January 2025
 by 
Ben Toney, Head of Volunteering

Make volunteering your New Year's Resolution in 2025. As the new year begins, why not prioritise your wellbeing while giving back to nature? Volunteering with the Heart of England Forest is the perfect way to combine fresh air, gentle exercise, and make meaningful contributions to help the environment. It’s a resolution that benefits you, the planet, and your community alike.  

A lush green canopy of the Forest from a birds eye view
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Together, we can create a greener, healthier future – for ourselves and for generations to come.

Boost your mental health in the great outdoors  

There’s something magical about spending time among the trees, hearing the rustle of leaves and the call of birds. Volunteering in the Forest offers a peaceful retreat from the busyness of daily life. Studies show that time in nature can lower stress, reduce anxiety, and improve mood – and we see this in action every day. Whether you’re planting trees or clearing pathways, the sense of accomplishment and connection to the landscape can do wonders for your mental health.  

Stay active without the gym 

Forget expensive gym memberships, volunteering in the Forest is an excellent way to stay active while doing something truly rewarding. Activities like tree planting, habitat management, or even lending a helping hand at events involve a mix of light to moderate physical effort. You’ll keep your body moving, improve your fitness, and enjoy the bonus of being surrounded by stunning scenery.  

An image of volunteers clearing invasive plant species from a semi ancient woodland
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Find a supportive community  

One of the best things about volunteering is the people you meet. Whether you come along on your own or bring a friend, you’ll be welcomed into a friendly and supportive group. Together, you’ll share stories, laughter, and the joy of making a real difference.  

Grow while you give  

Every day brings the chance to learn something new. Whether it’s mastering a skill, uncovering a hidden talent, or gaining fresh knowledge, growing and learning enriches us all.  

The natural world is a treasure trove of opportunities for discovery. From understanding the intricacies of wildlife habitats to learning hands-on conservation techniques, there’s always something to inspire curiosity. The Heart of England Forest is alive with fascinating creatures and landscapes, offering endless chances to expand your knowledge. Whether you’re a keen learner or simply want to explore, volunteering here opens the door to new experiences. 

Join our community of nature lovers
A group of volunteers in the tree nursery pulling up saplings ready for assessing in the tree nursery
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Making a difference  

One of the most powerful aspects of volunteering is the ripple effect it has on the world around us. By supporting the Heart of England Forest, you’re contributing to the creation and conservation of a magnificent natural space – not just for us today, but for countless generations to come.  

This isn’t just about trees and pathways; it’s about fostering a sanctuary for relaxation, connection, and joy. Knowing that our efforts will leave a lasting legacy – a place for families, friends, and wildlife to thrive.  

Make a resolution that lasts 

Many New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside, but volunteering is one you’ll want to stick with. The sense of purpose and achievement you’ll gain from being part of the Forest’s growth is deeply fulfilling. And with plenty of opportunities to get involved, there’s always something new to look forward to.  

Rosie the volunteer conducting a woodlouse survey
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Start your volunteering journey  

If you’re ready to make 2025 a year of positive change, we’d love to welcome you. Join us as we work to grow and protect the Heart of England Forest. Whether you can spare a day a month or a couple of hours, every contribution makes a difference.  

Together, we can create a greener, healthier future – for ourselves and for generations to come.