We want all our Nature Buddies to feel confident and happy in their new role. On this webpage you can access a selection of free training videos to support you. We hope you find them useful, relevant and helpful.
Please do let us know if you have any comments, queries or requests for additional training or support.
The first step on your journey to becoming a Nature Buddy is to watch our Induction training video. It covers all the information you need to know to help you get off to a great start in your volunteer role.
The slides are available to download HERE so you can refer back to them at any point.
Research consistently shows that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on both our physical and mental wellbeing. We have created this Connecting to Nature for Wellbeing Guide, which brings together the NHS 5 Ways to Wellbeing and the 5 Pathways to Nature Connection (University of Derby), offering practical ideas to help deepen your connection with nature while supporting wellbeing. You’ll find plenty of inspiration and activities to explore within your Nature Buddy partnerships.
Download the guide HERE
We run free, in-person Connecting to Nature training sessions – please contact us if you’d like to be notified of future dates.
These short training videos have been created by Volunteer Centre Dorset. They are optional as you may have already received training in these topics.
The Befriending Network has designed some useful, free e-learning modules to support volunteers in befriending roles.
How to have your first conversation – An interactive mini-course for volunteer befrienders to help them feel more confident and get their match off to a positive start.
Access – How to have your first conversation – Befriending Network
Creating social connections – A practical course for new, aspiring, or returning befrienders exploring the social connection, barriers to engagement, and skills like empathy, active listening, and rapport-building to reduce loneliness.
Please email Kate and Jules at stepin2nature@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or call Kate on 01305 228246. Please note Kate and Jules are part time and may not get back to you immediately. Thank you for your patience.
