About Us

Founded in 1988 after the great storm, a small group of volunteers joined together to set up South Downs National Trust Volunteers (South Downs NTV).

We support the National Trust in maintaining their open spaces maximising visitor areas whilst making friends and learning new skills.

Who are we?

South Downs was founded in 1988, by several volunteers who were carrying out voluntary work for other conservation groups after the great storm. The first work party as SDNTV was held on 12 June at Highdown Hill near Worthing, clearing storm damaged trees.

Since then, the group has gone from strength to strength, carrying out on average over 1,500 hours of conservation work per year across Sussex at a variety of countryside locations.

What do we do?

Tasks include; heathland and woodland clearance, footpath maintenance and fencing.

The group has an active social programme including walks (day and evening), meals out at local pub nights.

Why we do it…

The National Trust relies upon contributions and donations from members and the work of volunteers. In 2020-21, more than 50,000 volunteers contributed millions of hours of their time, an enormous cost saving if compared with paid roles.

Across the country there are a number of National Trust Volunteer groups (NTV), some are property based volunteers with NTV groups mostly carrying out practical conservation work and from time to time helping out at events.

Members of the group come from all walks of life and enjoy a friendly and welcoming atmosphere! Membership is open to anyone over the age of 18. We also welcome those aged 16 or 17 with the consent of a parent or guardian, including those working towards their Duke of Edinburgh award. Those under the age of 16 are also welcome if accompanied by a parent/guardian or other responsible adult.

What will I get out of it?

There are lots of different reasons to volunteer, everyone has their own reasons – here are some of the main benefits:

Learn new skills
Work alongside experts in their field
Make new friends
Knowing you’re making a unique contribution to the National Trust
Good for your CV
Counts towards your Duke of Edinburgh Award
Enjoy the fresh air

and…what’s more if you complete 50 hours work during the year you receive a volunteer card allowing you free entry to all NT properties and a discount in their shops.