The Oxford Dictionary defines volunteering as “a person who does a job without being paid for it”. For those of us who choose to volunteer, we understand that there are lots
of non monetary benefits to doing so.
Examples of this include learning new skills, improving mental and physical health, connecting with new friends in the community, improving confidence and achieving a sense of fulfilment from giving something back to a worthy cause.
The UK Government’s People and Nature Survey at the end of the Covid 19 pandemic stated that 83% of children believe nature makes them happy and that natural spaces are critical for children to make social connections. The campaign to end loneliness in 2022 found that 50% of all adults reported that they felt lonely. However, the Government’s Community Life Survey in 2022 shows a decrease of 18% in volunteering between 2013 and 2022. We need to change that.
In 2024, over 15,000 volunteer hours were donated an increase of 16% on 2023. With ever growing demand, we would like to see this number increase further in 2025.”
We have produced this volunteer guide to demonstrate some of the many opportunities we have for you to help us. Our volunteering scheme is open to those of differing skills, experience and abilities. So, whether you’re looking to join a regular activity, or just want to give volunteering a try, please do get in touch with our team at efvolunteering@cityoflondon.gov.uk
Finally, on behalf of the Conservators, I would like to thank all of the individuals and groups who continue to generously contribute their time, energy and skills we couldn’t do it without you!
Benjamin Murphy CC
Chairman of the Epping Forest and Commons Committee
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