Volunteer with Raise
We're growing a Community Forest, and you can be part of it.
Help create and care for Cumbria Community Forest while spending time outdoors, learning new skills and meeting like-minded people.
Whether you can join us once or volunteer regularly, there's a place for you.
Volunteers Make our Work Possible
Every woodland we plant and every community we work alongside benefits from the time, energy and ideas of our volunteers. Whether you're planting trees, caring for young woodland, or supporting wildlife surveys, you'll be making a real difference to people and nature across Cumbria.
Why volunteer with Raise?
Volunteering can look and feel different for everyone. We want our volunteer days to give people the information, choice and space they need to get involved in a way that works for them.
Make a difference
Help create and care for woodlands that have a lasting and measurable positive impact for wildlife, communities and future generations.
Find your own way to take part
Come as you are and contribute in the way that works for you. You can work at your own pace, take breaks when you need them, and ask questions.
Learn something new
No previous experience is needed. We'll provide guidance and help you learn new practical and creative skills.
Enjoy being outdoors
Spend time outdoors, meet like-minded people and enjoy some of Cumbria's most beautiful landscapes.
What volunteering with Raise is like
Every volunteer day is a little different, but we'll make sure you have the information you need to know what to expect.
Before your visit, we'll send you practical information about:
where to meet
parking and facilities
what you'll be doing
what to wear
what to bring
who'll be there
how long the day will last
On the day you'll be welcomed by our team, shown what to do and supported throughout. You can ask questions, work at your own pace and take breaks whenever you need them.
Every volunteer day is neuro-affirming
At Raise, every volunteering opportunity is delivered in a neuro-affirming way.
As a neurodivergent-led organisation, we know that clear communication, flexibility and understanding help people feel confident and included. That's why we build these principles into every volunteer day.
Ways to Volunteer
Community volunteer days
Open to everyone and ideal if you'd like to give volunteering a try or meet new people.
Small group volunteer days
Smaller sessions with limited places that allow us to tailor the experience and make sure everyone has the information they need beforehand.
Corporate volunteering
A chance for businesses and organisations to give back while spending a rewarding day outdoors together.
Booking your place
Booking helps us create the best experience
We ask volunteers to sign up before attending wherever possible.
This allows us to:
send information in advance so you know what to expect
plan activities for the right group size
make sure everyone has the equipment they need
prepare our team to give everyone the best possible experience
Some larger community planting days are open to people who decide to come along on the day, although registering in advance is always appreciated.
Small group volunteer days must be booked in advance because places are limited.
Upcoming Events
Scroll through our calendar to find a volunteer day that works for you, or head to our Upcoming Events page to see the full list.
Each event includes information about the activity, location, accessibility, group size and whether booking is required.
Sign up to volunteer
If you’d like to join us as a regular volunteer, please fill out the form below.
We’ll get in touch to confirm your registration and share details of upcoming opportunities.
Volunteers must be aged 16 or over. If you’re 16 or 17, we’ll ask for parental or guardian consent before you take part.
Questions about volunteering?
If you have any questions before applying or need the form in a different format, please contact our team.