2. Volunteer

Why volunteer with us?

There are many reasons why people volunteer with us. Meeting new people, gaining new skills and helping to maintain the local area are just a few. Hear from those who already volunteer with us.

Young people volunteering in Nottingham

Value of Volunteering Report 2021

Read our report on how people who volunteer by water see much greater levels of wellbeing, life satisfaction, happiness and reductions in anxiety

Here are some of the top reasons that our volunteers give for working with us:

  • to keep fit and active
  • to help keep the history and heritage of our waterways alive
  • to feel part of the canal/riverside community
  • to meet new people
  • to make a difference locally
  • to learn new skills
John Webb gold award winner

A head for heritage

Meet John Webb, who volunteered at Dundas Wharf and find out how his time spent with us led to a Red Wheel Plaque
Marilyn, volunteer destination assistant

Life changing event

Meet Marilyn, one of our volunteer destination assistants and how a trip across Pontcysyllte Aqueduct brought a sense of calm to her life.
Paul Harry - volunteer lock keeper

Taking a screen break

Meet Paul Harry, who loves to leave his life behind a computer screen to help boaters in Bath.
Katy, volunteer lock keeper in London

Ears and eyes for the Trust

Meet Katy, one of our volunteers in London, who loves to engage people, work the locks and keep our waterways as good as they can be
Sally (centre) aboard The Admiral welcome boat

Firing up future canal enthusiasts

Meet Sally, a retired primary school teacher who wanted to keep passing on knowledge to children and encouraging them to use their learning
Children volunteering

Read all of our articles

Meet some of our volunteers and discover why volunteering has become such a big part of their lives
Volunteers from Accenture at Lea Bridge

Search for a role

From flexible opportunities outside in the fresh air to skilled volunteer roles in our professional teams, there are hundreds of different ways to volunteer with us. Take a look today

Last date edited: 11 January 2022