Volunteering

Volunteers are essential to the work of the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust. Volunteers make our research work possible, contribute to key education projects and help manage our shop in Tobermory.  At HWDT we value the skills and time given by volunteers and understand that their enthusiasm and dedication contributes greatly to what we achieve.

Volunteers come from all walks of life, and each volunteer brings with them an invaluable range of skills, knowledge and experience which greatly benefits the Trust. We have hosted volunteers from many counties including France, Holland, Spain, Germany, Norway, England, Wales and Scotland and welcome volunteers of different ages. We also benefit from the help of volunteers from our local community who have contributed many hours and expertise over the years.

To volunteer you don’t have to be a marine or cetacean expert, our projects include thorough training. Some of our projects do require specific skills, so please read the relevant project brief carefully before applying and be realistic about your suitability.

What volunteers learn and gain from volunteering is as varied as their backgrounds. For example, on boat based research surveys volunteers get full training in scientific research techniques, and benefit greatly from having marine science and sailing experts constantly at hand. Volunteers have the opportunity to see an amazing variety of wildlife in its natural habitat, visit remote and beautiful places, and get to know and work closely with a small team of like-minded people. All volunteers know that their hard work and enthusiasm contributes directly to knowledge and conservation of cetaceans in the Hebrides. Voluntary work is of great benefit to those considering a career in marine conservation or involving marine mammals as these career paths are highly competitive.

Find out more about volunteering with the Trust:

Boat-based volunteering
Office-based volunteering

Want to create your own project? We welcome volunteers with, or looking for, experience in marketing, computer skills, and all other aspects of running a small charity. If you have skills that you feel would be beneficial to HWDT please contact the Volunteer Coordinator to discuss what you can offer.