Karen’s volunteer story

A little about me

I’ve always cared deeply for the natural world from a very young age, so it felt only natural to embark on a career that was related to gardens.

My interest in bumblebees stemmed from my career, having witnessed first-hand the negative impacts human activity can have on their environment.

Through research and intervention, I realised that by changing the way we manage our gardens, we can collectively make a positive difference. I then started to design gardens for wildlife and began re-educating my clients, friends and family about the importance of wild bees.

How long have you been volunteering for the Trust?

I joined the Trust as a member in 2023 and began volunteering for the Trust as an outreach volunteer in 2024.

What made you decide to do volunteering and why bumblebees?

My son was having a ‘World Bee Day’ at his primary school, so I volunteered to talk to the children and help with some bee-related activities, including sowing pollinator-friendly plants to take home. It turned out to be a success, and the children were really engaged. Many parents (including teachers) were also inspired, and asked me questions about how they could help.

I think it was at this point I realised we can educate more people through our children. I also believe that it’s crucial for children to understand the importance of bumblebees from a young age, and don’t think there’s enough information covered in schools. I want to protect the future health and wellbeing of our children and inspire future generations to help save our bumblebees.

What is the best thing about your time volunteering?

Many children are afraid of bees. Seeing the children develop a newfound love and respect for bumblebees and solitary bees after each event is awesome.

What contribution or achievement are you most proud of?

I think receiving positive comments from various people I have come into contact with, either informing me of the bumblebees they have seen on the new plants I recommended, or the solitary bees they’ve spotted in the latest bee hotel they have installed. It makes my heart sing!

What is the most challenging part?

I think standing up in front of an audience is always a bit daunting, regardless of their age. But once you start talking about something you’re passionate about the nerves subside. In the back of my mind, I’m always reminding myself why I’m doing it.

What motivates you to stay volunteering?

That’s easy. Seeing the BeeWalk results of 2024 was enough to spur me on, and I felt more determined than ever to try and help. The volunteer team are amazing and very supportive with each other too. I received all the tools I needed to assist with my talks, including training and an outreach event pack. Someone from the volunteer team was always on hand to help if I was unsure of anything.

What skills have you gained through volunteering?

Definitely more confidence, which is great for public speaking. From a garden design point of view, it’s opened my eyes to how I create planting plans. I’m definitely more conscientious about the plants I choose for my designs. I will never buy bedding plants again!

Finally …

There are many different ways to support bumblebees, and I guarantee there is a role out there for you. You will be fully supported, so please don’t feel afraid to take the first leap. You will be doing something incredible for our future, and you will be amazed at how much you learn along the way!

You can find more information on our Volunteer webpage and if you’d like to get in contact, you can email us at volunteering@bumblebeeconservation.org; we’d love to hear from you!