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The charity making life better by water

Ways to volunteer

If you're passionate about volunteering but unsure how you can make a difference, we offer a variety of roles to match your skills and availability.

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What suits you?

Whether you have a few hours a week or more time to dedicate, we can find a role that suits your schedule and interests. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference, and we're here to help you find the perfect way to get involved.

Supporting volunteers

You could help with everyday tasks, like monitoring activities on the towpath, auditing, and working with our social media team

Conservator volunteer

Help tackle some of the toughest issues on the waterways.

Lead volunteers

As a lead volunteer, you'll play a major role organising and leading teams of volunteers. Great for those with, or looking to develop leadership experience

Ambassador volunteers

As an ambassador, you'll help promote the value of our nation's canals and rivers, attend events and promote our campaigns

Community fundraising volunteers

You'll be supporting our fundraising goals at a regional level and engaging with local communities

Community volunteering

Join the 300 organisations and groups who partner with us every year

Explorers' volunteers

Could your passion for the canals inspire the next generation?

Volunteer lock keepers

Could you help boaters enjoy their time on our canals?

Welcome station volunteers

Could you greet visitors and help them with local information?

Bridge keeper volunteers

Help operate our historic swing bridges along the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal

Search all our opportunities

Tell us how often you'd like to volunteer, when you're free and where you are, and we'll show you what's available.

1. Select Frequency

2. Select Location Type

3. Find volunteering activities near you

Enter your location (optional):

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Last Edited: 26 January 2026

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