Discover more nature where you are with an RSPB local group

Most of you will be familiar with our amazing network of nature reserves and the work that we do with partners to help nature across the UK. But did you know that we also have an extensive network of vital local groups, doing remarkable work in our communities?  

Run exclusively by people like you, the volunteer-led local group network extends from Guernsey to Inverness and from Essex to Fermanagh. There are currently over 130 of these enthusiastic groups flying the flag for the RSPB, bringing people together and making a difference for nature wherever they live. 

Here are a few things you may not know about our local groups… 

• Since they began in 1969 local groups have raised over £25 million for the RSPB and continue to add to this total every year.
• Fundraising activities have included everything from plant sales to an art auction and even a sponsored walk to Macchu Picchu in Peru! 
• These groups don’t just raise money for the RSPB’s vital conservation work – they get on with it themselves too, installing nest boxes, doing surveys and even creating new habitat by managing land in collaboration with local councils and other landowners.
• You certainly don’t need to be a bird expert to join a local group. Many groups run special social events for birding beginners and all are welcome on a variety of group outings, whether exploring the local area or enjoying an organised coach trip to a nature reserve. 

For many, joining a group is a great way to meet people and make new friends.  It’s a chance to learn more about birds and nature, but also to share your own knowledge – and have fun! 

Connection to nature is proven to improve wellbeing and some local groups run nature-themed walks in conjunction with the NHS social prescribing service while other groups run regular walks for carers, giving them a well-earned break. 

Local group volunteers across the UK attend community events such as fairs and fetes, engaging with people of all ages and helping spread the word about the RSPB’s work. 

1. Worcester & Malvern group installed a Sand Martin ‘hotel’ by the Severn that produced over 30 chicks in its first year. They are also managing riverside land for waders. 
2. North Ayrshire group helped to create an island in an artificial lagoon by the Clyde which provides a nesting place for gulls and Sandwich Terns. 
3. In Tonbridge, the group surveyed an old orchard at risk from development.  Their work confirmed the presence of Nightingales on the site and helped to protect it. 
4. Woodbridge group organised a community art exhibition and asked local artists to donate a percentage of sales to the RSPB. A blind auction for the artworks raised over £1,500 for the RSPB. 
5. Our Northern Ireland groups got together to arrange Zoom talks open to all NI members and raised over £5,000 through online tickets and donations. 
6. The Bromley Local Group influences conservation policy in Bromley through its membership of the Bromley Biodiversity Partnership (BBP). The Partnership recently played the leading part in updating the Bromley Biodiversity Plan for 2021-2026. This outlines policy and best practice to conserve and promote biodiversity within the borough. 
7. Belfast group encouraged the local council, planners and architects to act on the city’s Swift City status and joined other wildlife groups to fight harmful developments. 
8. Chester group worked with the council and builders to make sure Swift bricks were installed in a  new development. 
9. South East Herts group took part in a campaign that prevented development of a site with the last Tree Sparrow colony in the county. 
10. St Albans group run a Heron watch in their local park.  
11. Lincoln group have a Peregrine watch at Lincoln Cathedral. 
12. Macclesfield Local Group works closely with the town’s RSPB Youth Groups to run the Swifts Over Macclesfield project that has attracted grants and support from the local MP. The initiative raises awareness of Swifts through art and poetry competitions and by events with Emily the Giant Swift and some of her smaller friends. 

If you’d like to learn more about your nearest local group and how you might be able to get involved, visit our local groups webpage here.