Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Fix the Fells. Volunteering with us in this role is an amazing opportunity to get out into the fells, meet new people, learn new skills and contribute to a project that conserves over 400 miles of Lake District footpaths for people to use today, tomorrow and beyond. But... it's not always a walk in the park!
We always receive many more applications to volunteer in this role than we have spaces, and we want you to be certain that this is the right role for you before applying. The role requires volunteers who are physically fit, can commit to at least 12 days of volunteering a year and are willing to join us whatever the weather. To help you decide whether this is the role for you, we've created a short pre-application checklist - if you can confidently answer "yes" to the following questions we look forward to receiving an application from you!
Do I enjoy walking, often for hours at a time, up hills and steep paths?
We maintain the highest paths in the Lake District, and we do it all on foot. Many years of Fix the Fells has shown us that while all our volunteers are different they all share one thing in common - they love to walk!
Am I willing to spend a full day out in the fells in hard rain and wind?
We really do go out in all types of weather - at least when safe to do so. In rain, wind and cold, all year round - this is the Lake District and we often experience all four seasons in a single day. We prepare with the right clothing and equipment, but it can still be very challenging working outdoors in harsh conditions.
Am I comfortable getting my hands (and legs, feet and face!) dirty?
We have fun when out on the fells, but we are out there to complete our tasks. We use tools to undertake manual labour which requires being comfortable bending and kneeling, and is often messy - especially in the rain.
Can I commit to at least 12 days of volunteering a year? We pride ourselves on providing a comprehensive package of training, induction and support that ensures volunteers are comfortable and confident in their volunteering and feel well supported throughout their time. In return, we ask that volunteers expect to commit to at least 12 days of volunteering each year.
Do I live within a reasonable distance of the Lake District National Park?
Volunteering days can be long, often with early start times that ensure we can get parked up. We also consider our carbon footprint, with the distances volunteers travel contributing significantly to our carbon emissions. For those reasons, we ask that volunteers live within reasonable distance of the fells where their volunteering will take place - preferably in Cumbria or Lancashire.
I've answered 'Yes' to all the above questions - I'd like to apply to be a volunteer.
