Join an RSPB Group ..... Birds of a feather stick together!

I am astounded and amazed at the contribution to the work of the RSPB that the local group network makes. A community group of like-minded, passionate people getting together and really making a difference where it counts.

They are spread up and down the UK and each group has it’s own personality. By this I mean that they undertake different activities for their membership. This being said they all share the same objectives which are:

• Engaging with the public by holding events 
• Getting involved with the local community 
• Recruiting RSPB members
• Raising money to enable us to carry out our vital conservation work 
• Organising practical conservation work 
• Campaigning on our behalf 
• Inspiring young people 

This may seem like a lot of hard work, and this is why I am so amazed the volunteers that run these groups can often have full time jobs, families and other commitments and yet they still have time to run these groups. It must be because that also have fun and feel like they are making a difference to the world around them and the people that attend the group meetings and outings.

Do you want to meet other likeminded people? Get to know other RSPB members in your local area? Do you want to learn more about birds and wildlife? Why not Step Up for Nature and join one of our groups near you!

“I have been a member of the group for the best part of thirty years, and joining was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The group has always been made up of friendly people who never make you feel foolish if you misidentify or don’t recognize a common bird.” Jean Fox, Newcastle Upon Tyne Local Group

Each group organises events throughout the year for people who are interested in wild birds and conservation. Events might include:

• Nature walks
• Film shows or illustrated talks
• Visits to nature reserves 
• Running stalls at bazaars and fairs to raise funds
• Local cruises on the coast
• Weekends away
• Dances, barbecues and many other social events.   

For a flavour of a groups activities have a look at the North West Surrey Local Group website.

You don’t have to be a member to join in, and turning up to a meeting doesn’t commit you – so contact a local group near you to find out what’s going on in your area.

Do you want to get involved in helping to run a group? If so then the groups could do with your help. Could you organise events, look after the money, be a group leader, get involved with the media & publicity, take minutes & prepare meetings, or write newsletters?

Why not visit our volunteering opportunity pages and see if there is a Local Group role that suits you!

Are you a member of a local group? If so, please leave me a comment it would be great to hear what you think and I am sure you will inspire others to find out more.