Mendip Hills People and Places Project
We want to make it easier for people to get involved in looking after the Mendip Hills. Thanks to a grant from Natural England the AONB Unit is working with the National Trust and Somerset Wildlife Trust to coordinate current volunteering opportunities, and this web page is just the start.
We know people want to get involved in practical conservation tasks, research and monitoring, recreation and events, helping visitors, and doing guided walks and talks. We want to make all this available in a simple way that benefits you and the Mendip Hills AONB.
The sites managed by these organisations are some of the most fantastic in an area that is already "Outstanding" including Deer Leap, Cheddar Gorge and Draycott Sleights. The wildlife of many of these special places is managed so that unusual species are not lost and these locations remain as picturesque as they are today.
The Mendip Hills AONB People and Places Project began on 1st April 2008 and is a two year pilot project. The volunteer programme is now in place and everyone is welcome to come along and join in with activities whether you are an existing volunteer or keen to try something new. You will find the most recent programme of activities HERE.
You and the countryside can benefit greatly from volunteering activities that enhance the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
We hope that there is something of interest here for you but if not please visit again. We will be continually updating this page as new opportunities come on line.
Across the Mendip Hills AONB there are many groups and individuals volunteering their time on sites and projects that conserve and enhance the area. Mendip Society, Hawk and Owl Trust, Charterhouse Environs Research Team (CHERT), village groups, National Trust, Avon and Somerset Wildlife Trusts to name just a few. Visit the links page to contact them.
The Mendip Hills AONB has a long history of working with volunteers including Rangers and through specific projects like Lifelines and work experience. The AONB Partnership Committeeand sub groups include volunteers who assist with ideas and feedback on the future of the area.
AONB Volunteers
Volunteers, including rangers, support the Mendip Hills AONB unit by carrying out a range of activities including patrols and providing information at events.
We will be recruiting more long term volunteer Rangers soon so if you are interested please let us know by ringing us on 01761 462338 or emailing mendiphills@somerset.gov.uk
Black Down Path Watch Scheme
Starting in October 2009 Volunteers needed for new Path Watch scheme on Black Down, linking the misuse of paths directly with the police. Also litter picks, patrolling and a footpath survey. Ring Mendip Hills AONB 01761 462338 or email mendiphills@somerset.gov.uk
This report was commissioned by Development Personnel Ltd to provide a vision of volunteering in the Mendip Hills AONB. The Mendip Hills Sustainable Development Fund grant aided the work.
Groups who currently play an active role in volunteering in the AONB were asked for their views. These views have led to a list of suggested improvements some of which will are already being progressed through the People and Places Project and the AONB unit.
