With more than 130 adult and youth groups across the UK, the RSPB is helping to make a difference in our local communities. For many, these volunteer-led groups are the face and voice of the RSPB and can be an essential force in the fight to save nature.
Local groups for local people
Run exclusively by people like you, the volunteer-led local group network extends from Guernsey to Inverness and from Essex to Fermanagh. There are currently over 130 of these enthusiastic groups flying the flag for the RSPB, bringing people together and making a difference for nature wherever they live.
So, what do local groups actually do?
Here are a few things you may not know about our local groups…
- Since they began in 1969 local groups have raised over £25 million for the RSPB and continue to add to this total every year.
- These groups don’t just raise money for the RSPB’s vital conservation work – they get on with it themselves too, installing nest boxes, doing surveys and even creating new habitat by managing land in collaboration with local councils and other landowners.
- You certainly don’t need to be a bird expert to join a local group. Many groups run special social events for beginners and all are welcome on a variety of group outings, whether exploring the local area or enjoying an organised coach trip to a nature reserve.
For many, joining a group is a great way to meet people and make new friends. It’s a chance to learn more about birds and nature, but also to share your own knowledge – and have fun!
Connection to nature is proven to improve wellbeing and some local groups run nature-themed walks in conjunction with the NHS social prescribing service while other groups run regular walks for carers, giving them a well-earned break.
RSPB Dorking and District local group covers the local area, has regular walks and meetings in person and online to provide the chance to learn more in a friendly way. Check out our activities on Facebook @Dorking RSPB or our website https://ww2.rspb.org.uk/groups/dorkinganddistrict/
