Council celebrates countryside volunteers and urges others to join in

Staffordshire County Council is celebrating its countryside volunteers as part of National Volunteers Week happening on 1 to 7 June.

The council is also encouraging more people to get involved with helping care for the county’s beautiful green spaces. 

The county council manages several popular country parks including Cannock Chase, Chasewater, Apedale, Deep Hayes and Greenway Bank. Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring everyone can enjoy these special spaces. 

From welcoming visitors and supporting events to assisting with conservation work and wildlife surveys, their time and dedication make a real difference. 

Volunteering as part of the county council’s countryside team is a great way to meet new people, build confidence, gain new skills, learn interesting wildlife facts and spend more time outdoors enjoying nature. 

Dr Darshan Seehra, has been volunteering at the Milford Hut at Cannock Chase Country Park for four years. 

He said: "I am happy to volunteer because it gives me the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, help visitors enjoy the beauty of Cannock Chase, and give something back to the local community.

“It is rewarding to be part of a place that brings people and nature together.” 

Last year saw a 30 per cent rise in volunteers compared to the previous year and the county council hopes that more people will want to get involved caring for their local country parks. 

Hayley Coles, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said: “Our volunteers make a huge difference to Staffordshire’s country parks and green spaces, and we’re incredibly grateful for the time, enthusiasm and care they give. 

“Our country parks volunteers have told us that they have found it incredible rewarding. It’s a great way to stay active, enjoy the great outdoors and improve your mental wellbeing.

“If you love the countryside and you want to give back to your local community, I highly recommend you give it a go.” 

Volunteering at Staffordshire’s country parks does not require any skills or experience – just a love for the great outdoors and a positive attitude. 

Anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to email countrysidevolunteers@staffordshire.gov.uk to express their interest.  

Organisations interested in carrying out volunteering days at Staffordshire’s country