The Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust has received generous support from the Swire Charitable Trust to expand accessible and inclusive volunteering opportunities across the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Through tailored activities and the support of experienced lead volunteers, the Pathways project offers opportunities for individuals who may not otherwise be able to engage in volunteering.

In 2024, the project delivered 86 volunteering sessions, contributing over 800 volunteer days across more than 30 sites in Pembrokeshire.

Volunteers took part in practical conservation and heritage tasks including clearing gorse, helping to preserve ancient monuments, hedge laying and hedge bank restoration, scrub clearance and coppicing, removing invasive species such as Himalayan balsam, and tree planting to enhance biodiversity.

Volunteers also worked on habitat creation by planting wildflowers to improve meadow ecosystems and undertook path maintenance, access improvements, and the installation of a new notice board at St Govans, Castlemartin.

Mitch Hill, Pathways Project Lead, said: “One of the most rewarding aspects of this project has been witnessing the personal growth of our volunteers. Many have gained new skills, increased their confidence, and even transitioned into further volunteering roles, employment, or education.”

In addition to hands-on conservation work, the project provided vital training for lead volunteers, including mental health awareness, first aid, and equality, diversity, and inclusion training. This investment in volunteer development ensures the sustainability and long-term impact of the programme.

Katie Macro, Director of the Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Swire Charitable Trust for making Pathways possible. Their support has enabled us to reach more people, deliver meaningful conservation work, and create lasting benefits for both the environment and the local community.”

Visit www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/volunteering to find out more about Pathways and other volunteering opportunities in the National Park.