The Canal & River Trust launches its biggest appeal for volunteers

The Canal & River Trust is calling for volunteers in what it says is its biggest appeal to date.

People are being encouraged to join the charity’s army of volunteers to aid in its growing mission to protect and preserve the nation’s 2,000-mile historic canal network across England and Wales.

The trust is appealing for its largest ever range of volunteer roles and activities – from lock keeper, to community, administrative and professional support roles, and wildlife and heritage conservation opportunities.

Over the coming months, the charity will be hosting a series of volunteer welcome events across England and Wales where people can find out about the variety of flexible roles and activities they can get involved with and find out how they can make a real difference to local communities.

“Still used and navigated by boats just as they were hundreds of years ago, today’s canals have also become vital places in our urban and rural communities providing crucially important habitat for endangered wildlife and special spaces for people to experience nature,” says Richard Parry, chief executive of the Canal & River Trust.

“With the nation’s canals used and enjoyed by more people than ever before, together with the constant threat of climate change, these historic places need constant care to look after them. We need the support of the community and conservation-minded people to help ensure that these precious places are handed onto future generations.”

Research in 2021 by the trust found that people who volunteer by water report being happier, feeling more worthwhile and feeling less anxious than other volunteers or those who don’t volunteer at all. In a recent survey (2023), the trust says that its findings show that half of people surveyed said the reasons they get involved with volunteering are to give something back to their community (48 per cent) and to meet new people and make new friends (31 per cent). Mental wellbeing was another key reason given for getting involved (30 per cent).

Journalist and presenter, Ranvir Singh, is supporting the Canal & River Trust’s appeal having joined volunteers on the Grand Union Canal in London with a project to improve the canal for wildlife.

Ranvir comments: “It’s great to consider volunteering for the Canal & River Trust for two reasons: Firstly, for yourself, because working by water makes you feel happier and reduces anxiety; it’s social – an opportunity to meet new people; if you don’t have your own green space, it’s somewhere where you can enjoy nature and the environment for free.

“The other reason is for the environment – we might feel a bit helpless about what we can do to make a difference, but this is a fantastic way to do your bit, whilst also having a positive impact on your local area.”