Canals and rivers are often places of calm, connection and natural beauty — but they rely on people power to stay that way. The Canal & River Trust is encouraging people across Lancashire to get involved through its Volunteer by Water campaign.
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As a charity, the Trust depends on volunteers to help keep canals, rivers and towpaths healthy, safe and welcoming for everyone. From practical outdoor work to community-focused roles, there are opportunities to suit a wide range of interests, abilities and time commitments.
What can volunteers do?
Volunteers play a vital role in looking after local waterways. Activities include:
- Helping maintain towpaths and lock gates
- Planting for wildlife and improving habitats
- Supporting communities to recover after storm damage
- Assisting at visitor sites and events
- Carrying out light conservation and environmental tasks
Whether you have a few hours to spare or want to make a regular commitment, there are roles designed to fit around everyday life.
Join a welcome session
Anyone interested in volunteering is invited to attend a welcome session, available both in person and online. These sessions offer a chance to:
- Learn more about volunteering opportunities
- Meet local Canal & River Trust teams
- Ask questions and explore which roles might suit you
- Discover the impact volunteers have in their communities
There are more than 50 welcome sessions taking place nationwide.
Make a difference close to home
Volunteering by water is a chance to give something back to local landscapes while enjoying fresh air, meeting new people and learning new skills. Many volunteers say the experience improves wellbeing as well as the environment.
If you love your local canal or river and want to help protect it for future generations, this could be the perfect opportunity.
Find out more
To explore volunteering roles and book a welcome session, visit:
👉 https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/support-us/our-campaigns/volunteer-by-water
