Wilder Coast Volunteers - July 2022 Update

Two of our latest recruits for the Pegwell Bay Wilder Coast Volunteer Team were kind enough to share their thoughts on their new role and the benefits of supporting our valuable work at Kent’s largest National Nature Reserve through this relaxed and flexible volunteer position.

“Following on from years of spending far too much of my time indoors staring at computer monitors, I made two resolutions for 2022. The first was to spend more of my time outdoors and closer to nature, and the second was to contribute more of my time to help conserve wildlife.  So when I found out that the Wilder Coast project was looking for volunteers, it was a no-brainer for me to get involved!  The project gives me a good reason to get out to the Sandwich and Pegwell Bay NNR on a regular basis to enjoy the spectacular scenery and varied wildlife, and at the same time I get to contribute to maintaining and improving the site as a haven for some spectacular birdlife.  The role itself is flexible in terms of time; I try to visit once a week, but there’s no problem to shift the time/day of visit or to skip a week if I need to. There’s also flexibility in terms of choosing whether to monitor activities that may lead to bird disturbance, or actively engage the public to increase awareness. Another bonus for me is that volunteering has led directly to opportunities to get involved with other activities. These include helping out with guided walks, where I’ve had chance to meet some knowledgeable folks and learn much more about the wildlife I’m helping to protect.”   
Richard Bannister

“I initially found Kent Wildlife while visiting Pegwell Bay for a public bird watch and walk session. I heard about their work at the Nature Reserve and the protection needed for the wildlife in that area. 
I decided it would be a great idea to walk my dog, Skipper, there once a week and carry out a Volunteer role at the same time. It gave Skipper an interesting varied walk, and gave me a sense of doing something useful. 
Wearing a fluorescent tabard with the logo on the back is a really visible presence, having a dog who is always on a lead anyway, is a good way of getting to talk to other dog walkers and find out from them if they use the reserve a lot and are aware of the PSPO. 
Being the eyes and ears for Kent Wildlife is really rewarding because I feel I have 'given back' and done something towards preserving this beautiful part of Kent.”
Pam Holmes

We are always on the look out for new Wilder Coast Volunteers. For more information on the role please see Wilder Coast Volunteer - Sandwich & Pegwell Bay Area | Kent Wildlife Trust or email nina.jones@kentwildlife.org.uk for more information.