World Horse Welfare’s vision is a world where every horse is treated with respect, compassion and understanding. Our mission is to work with horses, horse owners, communities, organisations and governments to help improve welfare standards and stamp out suffering in the UK and worldwide.

Do you have the gift of time?

Volunteers are at the heart of our work helping our staff to make a difference. There are various opportunities by which you can join the team including helping on the yard, gardening, greeting visitors and helping us educate the public on what we do or general administrative support. We are always looking for an extra pair of hands.

World Horse Welfare is committed to championing equality and diversity in all aspects of volunteering. We encourage applications for all of our opportunities from under-represented groups, particularly ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQ+, and people with disabilities. We are very open to discussing reasonable adjustments and will do our best to accommodate any requests.

We ask for all our volunteers to be over 18. For our younger supporters we have a work experience scheme – find out more here.

To find out more about volunteering for us please email volunteering@worldhorsewelfare.org or call 01953 497266.

To apply for one of our volunteering opportunities below, please fill in our online application form.


Volunteer Yard Assistant

Join us as a Volunteer Yard Assistant at one of our four rescue and rehoming centres where rescued horses begin their journey to a brighter future – receiving the expert, compassionate care they need to heal and thrive.

As a Volunteer Yard Assistant you’ll play an important role in supporting the smooth running of our yards by helping with day to day tasks. Your contribution will allow our expert grooms to focus on rehabilitating horses and preparing them for a loving new home.

This is a physically active role where you’ll get to be part of a friendly and inclusive team, experience the satisfaction of making a real difference, and have opportunities to be involved in other charity activities, such as open days. While horse handling may be limited, the sense of purpose, teamwork, and enjoyment are unlimited!

If you’re enthusiastic, enjoy working as part of a team and looking to offer a regular commitment, we’d love to hear from you! Current available opportunities are:

  • Glenda Spooner Farm in Somerton, Somerset: Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 11am, with the option to stay on until 1pm once established.
  • Penny Farm in Blackpool, Lancashire: Mondays from 2.30pm to 4.30pm and Sundays from 9am to 1pm, and 2.30pm to 4.30pm.
  • Hall Farm in Snetterton, Norfolk: No opportunities currently available
  • Belwade Farm in Aboyne, Aberdeenshire: No opportunities currently available.

Interested? Download the role description for full details and apply today!


Visitor Centre Volunteer

Do you enjoy meeting new people and creating a welcoming atmosphere? We’re looking for friendly volunteers to help in our Visitor Centres based at each of our four rescue and rehoming centres.

As a volunteer you’ll help greet visitors, answer questions and help create a positive experience for everyone who comes through the doors. You will also assist with reception, in the coffee shop or activities such as yard tours and open days, sharing information about the work we do for horses.

Volunteering with us is a fantastic way to connect with others, make new friends and learn new skills – all while being part of something rewarding. Whether you can give a few hours a week or more, your time will make a real difference. Currently, our centres are looking for volunteers to help on Saturdays and Sundays between 11am to 3pm, ideally on a weekly or fortnightly basis.

Interested? Download the role description for full details and apply today!


Maintenance and Gardening Volunteer

Join us as a Maintenance and Gardening volunteer on Fridays at Glenda Spooner Farm in Somerton, Somerset, to help keep our rescue and rehabilitation centre welcoming, safe and in great condition. Your support will help ensure our horses, visitors, staff and volunteers enjoy a well-maintained environment.

You’ll assist in a variety of outdoor and gardening activities such as mowing, weeding, tidying outdoor areas and keeping pathways clear. Whether it’s fixing small items, caring for green spaces, or helping with seasonal upkeep, your contribution will help everything run smoothly.

You’ll join a friendly team, enjoy spending time outdoors, and make a meaningful difference to the day-to-day running of our centres. If you have a practical mindset, enjoy physical tasks and are happy pitching in where needed, we’d love to hear from you.


Supporter Services Volunteer

We’re looking for organised and friendly volunteers to help keep our fundraising operations running smoothly. Your support will ensure every donor and member receives the warm, efficient experience they deserve. This opportunity is available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at our Head Office in Snetterton, Norfolk, anytime between 8.30am and 5pm.

You’ll help sort incoming donation post, prepare membership welcome packs, and assist with sending supporter letters, along with other simple admin tasks when needed. Your attention to detail and teamwork will make a real difference.

You’ll join a welcoming team, put your organisational skills to good use, and enjoy the satisfaction of contributing to a great cause. If you’re reliable, flexible, and happy working with others, we’d love to hear from you.

Interested? Download the role description for full details and apply today!


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Donate to help horses feel safe again  

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