Nature And Landscape

Afterhours Green Guardians

The Heart of England Forest aims to create a volunteering model that enables more people to value and care for their local natural heritage, building on the clear demand demonstrated through our successful pilot evening sessions. By offering high-quality, accessible conservation opportunities outside traditional working hours, the project will remove time-based barriers that prevent many working-age adults from engaging with natural heritage. Through hands-on woodland, meadow and wetland management, volunteers will learn traditional countryside skills, deepen their understanding of the Forest’s ecological and cultural significance, and contribute directly to the care of priority habitats. The project will also support wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen community connection to place. Its long-term legacy will be a more diverse, resilient volunteer community, embedded in the ongoing stewardship of the Forest and ensure people can meaningfully contribute to, care for, and feel genuine ownership of the natural environment on their doorstep.