What is Wild Sherwood?

Wild Sherwood is a new project created by Ollerton and District Economic Forum (ODEF) to help unemployed people gain environmental and transferrable skills through volunteering in the unique environment of Sherwood Forest. It is funded through the Big Lottery’s Reaching Communities programme.

What’s involved?

As a volunteer you will attend the programme for a month (4 days per week, Monday to Thursday). During this time you will learn a variety of environmental skills in an informal outdoor setting: sites include Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, The Robin Hood Way and areas owned by the Forestry Commission. A first aid course and bushcraft course are also included in the programme.

Examples of the type of work you could be involved in include: habitat creation, footpath installation and maintenance, coppicing, field surveys, outdoor furniture construction and a whole lot more. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about countryside management and about the plants, trees, insects, birds and animals that form part of this special area.

Previous experience of this type of work isn’t required because Project Officers Matt and Claire will be your mentors and guides on-site. You will also gain experience and knowledge of subjects such as health and safety, equal opportunities and team working. At the end of the course you will be given a portfolio which will highlight your achievements as well as a reference and support to help you find a job, whatever your passion is…