Volunteer and Facilitate at Wakehurst

Join us in growing connections at Wakehurst through our Discovery and Access programmes.

Elderly Black woman in a straw hat smiling at a young white woman in volunteer uniform, who is examining a tropical fruit moulded in teal modelling clay

Wakehurst is Kew’s wild botanic garden in the heart of Sussex – a living laboratory where nature and science come together.

As part of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, we share in a global mission: to understand, protect and celebrate plants and fungi for the benefit of all life on Earth.

Our Community and Access Programmes put people and place at the centre, providing services directly to people who face physical, sensory, psychological, or social barriers to visiting Wakehurst independently.

Through creative, community-led projects, we aim to inspire new ways of seeing, experiencing and caring for the natural world.

We’re looking for passionate volunteers and inclusive facilitators to join us in delivering this vital work. Whether supporting workshops, leading sessions, or simply lending a hand, your contribution will help grow lasting connections between people, plants and place.

Current opportunities

Volunteer Opportunity: Discovery and Access Volunteer at Wakehurst | RBG Kew

Location: Wakehurst
Department: Participation

Do you want to help break down barriers to nature and make green spaces welcoming for everyone?
Join the Participation Team at Wakehurst and be part of an exciting initiative to bring nature closer to those facing social, psychological, physical, or financial challenges.

About the Role

As a Discovery and Access Volunteer, you will help create a warm, inclusive atmosphere during community programs like:

  • Sow and Grow: Monthly gardening workshops for all abilities
  • Dementia-Friendly Guided Tours: Gentle, sensory explorations
  • Nature Natters: Wellness walk and talk groups
  • Glow Wild Lantern-Making: Creative workshops
  • Wakehurst's Community Festival: Free community festival

Your role involves group facilitation, supporting participants, and encouraging nature connection to promote well-being and inclusivity.

Who We’re Looking For

  • Friendly, approachable volunteers passionate about nature and mental well-being
  • Some experience with supporting people with additional needs is a plus, but not essential
  • Comfortable leading short walks or group activities once a month
  • Reliable, with flexible availability on Monday or Tuesday mornings/afternoons

What You’ll Get

  • Full induction and ongoing training
  • Kew branded clothing
  • 1:1 support and check-ins after sessions
  • Chance to gain valuable experience in community engagement

How to Apply

Make a difference, connect with your community, and help build a more inclusive future for all visitors to Wakehurst. We especially encourage people with lived experience of access requirements to apply.

At Kew, we recognise that diversity enriches the work we do and welcome volunteer applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences. Our aim is to provide equal opportunities to all volunteers, ensuring they are treated fairly, without bias or prejudice, while fostering an environment where everyone can contribute meaningfully.

Email us at wakehurstcommunity@kew.org