Overview of the role:    

Grazing plays an important role in caring for some of Surrey’s most valuable habitats, including heathland and chalk grassland.

As a voluntary livestock checker, you’ll help carry out regular visual checks of grazing animals on Trust land and report any signs of illness, injury or concern to staff. This may also include checking water supplies and fencing where needed. Full training and ongoing support are provided.

Time commitment:    

Ideally, you'll be able to commit to one check per week for at least six weeks or the duration that livestock are on site. 

What’s involved:

You’ll support Surrey Wildlife Trust’s grazing team by helping to keep livestock healthy, safe, and by alerting staff quickly if there are any concerns.

Activities include:

• Observing livestock to assess general health and behaviour
• Checking fencing and gates, water troughs and supplies
• Following the Trust's lone working and health & safety guidance
• Reporting concerns safely and promptly

You’ll receive clear guidance on what to look for and how to report issues, as well as training and ongoing support from the conservation grazing team.

You'll need to live close enough to walk to the site or have your own vehicle to reach the location. 

You’ll need a mobile phone and be willing to use it as part of livestock reporting and lone working procedures.
                                
Skills and experience:    

No previous experience is required as full training is provided. You should:

• Be comfortable walking for extended periods, sometimes on uneven or steep ground
• Feel comfortable around livestock

By volunteering, you could:

• Spend time outdoors and explore new wildlife sites in your area
• Learn about conservation grazing and animal welfare
• Contribute to protecting wildlife            

Next steps:    

To take part, you’ll need to register as a volunteer. Once registered, you’ll receive further information about training and details on which sites need checking.

Age guidance:

• Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (who must also register as a volunteer).                                    

Equality, diversity and inclusion:
                                    
Surrey Wildlife Trust is committed to an inclusive and diverse volunteer programme where everyone feels welcomed, valued and supported to take part.    

Apply now