Charity, New Forest | Posted on January 9th, 2026 | return to news

Volunteer fair in the New Forest

The New Forest Park Volunteer Fair is your chance to find out about volunteering opportunities in the area.

Volunteering opportunities are being showcased at the New Forest Park Volunteer Fair on Sunday 25 January. More than 50 organisations will be represented at the event, which will be opened by New Forest inclusive cycling charity PEDALL. Organisations include the Countryside Education Trust, Freshwater Habitats Trust, Flourish in Nature, Guide Dogs, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, Litter Pickers of the New Forest, the RNLI and RSPB.

There is something to suit everybody, from active tasks like improving footpaths and heathland to helping lead inclusive cycling rides and healthy walks, as well as low-activity and home-based roles such as archiving, admin and social media. There are also youth-focused opportunities with members of the New Forest Youth Board at the fair, as well as organisations involved in the Youth for Climate and Nature (YouCAN) scheme.

This year’s event follows a hugely successful Volunteer Fair in 2025, which not only celebrated the 20th anniversary of the New Forest National Park, but also connected hundreds of people with local organisations. More than 450 people came to hear from around 50 charities and groups, with nearly 20 dedicated talks scheduled on the day.

New Forest NPA volunteering and accessibility co-ordinator James Masser said: “Looking after the National Park is a real team effort, and we couldn’t do it without all the fantastic volunteers helping so many different organisations. The Volunteer Fair always has such a friendly, inspiring atmosphere.

“Volunteering can open doors in so many ways, such as for people starting out on a green career journey or for those looking for new challenges at other points in life. It’s a wonderful way to make a difference, build confidence and feel truly connected to the landscapes and people of the New Forest. “The New Forest offers something for all ages and abilities, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back for another brilliant Fair in 2026.”

PEDALL New Forest Inclusive Cycling manager Shelley Filby said: “PEDALL is delighted to open the New Forest National Park Volunteer Fair this year. “Volunteering had a hugely positive impact on my own wellbeing, giving me friendships, social connection and a real sense of belonging and purpose. “PEDALL, like every organisation represented at the Fair, simply couldn’t operate without volunteers. Volunteering is a brilliant way to share your interests and passions while supporting the incredible work happening across the New Forest.”

The Fair will take place at Brockenhurst Village Hall on Sunday 25 January between 10.30am and 4pm. Entry is free, with everybody invited to drop in at any time and browse the stalls. A range of food and drinks will be available to buy on the day.

Visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/volunteerfair for more information and to find a full list of exhibitors.