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Local groups |
Home > Local groups > About local groups
About local groupsRSPB local groups are a great way to meet friendy, like-minded people in your area, while learning more about birds and wildlife. Run by volunteers, you can be as involved as you like with your local group. Whether you just take part in the extensive events program that each group organises, or get more involved with the everyday running of the group organising talks, walks, fundraising, or looking after the group's finances etc, you will be helping to make a real difference to conservation in the UK. Below, find answers to our most common questions about local groups. Do I have to be an RSPB member to join a local group?You don't have to be a member to join in, and turning up to a meeting doesn't commit you. Does it cost anything to come to a local group meeting?This differs from group to group. Some have an on the door entry fee and others have a silver collection. Most groups also have their own membership fee should you eventually decide to join the group. How often do local groups meet?Groups hold an indoor meeting once a month. The number of outdoor meetings/walks varies with each group. What can I expect at a local group meeting?A warm, friendly welcome and an opportunity to meet like minded people who share your enthusiasm for and interest in wildbirds and the environment. Any of our local groups would be delighted to welcome you along to one of their events where you can find out more. What do local groups do?Groups organise their own program of events throughout the year, covering a wide range of topics and activities. There is something for everyone from talks and slide shows, coach outings, guided walks, and helping run a stall at a local fair, through to weekends away, getting dirty helping with scrub clearance on your local reserve or winding down at the Summer barbecue. 'RSPB local groups are a wonderful way to meet other people. We liked birds but didn't feel we could go to a local group because we thought they must be experts and we certainly weren't. A neighbour took us to a meeting. Now we wish we had gone before.'
What types of people belong to local groups?Local groups are open to all, from those with a keen interest in birds to people who want to learn more about conservation and wildlife. Everyone is welcome. How do local groups support the RSPB?Local groups promote and represent the RSPB in the local community by running events, fundraising for the RSPB, and offering conservation help in the local area. Are there local groups for children?Yes. We have RSPB Wildlife Explorers and RSPB Phoenix Groups, however some of our local groups welcome families. There is no local group near me. Can I start one?Please contact your nearest regional or country office if you are interested in starting a local group. | In more depth |
Birdwatching, Bempton Cliffs RSPB reserve - (rspb-images.com)
Dunlin roost at Copperas Bay, RSPB Stour Estuary reserve - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com, Ref: 2003-4769-009 )