Volunteering, Research & Work Experience - The Big Cat Sanctuary

Volunteering, Research & Work Experience


Get involved at The Big Cat Sanctuary!

Volunteering at The Big Cat Sanctuary


The Big Cat Sanctuary’s staff are all dedicated and passionate about their work. However, there is a limit to what each individual can achieve in a day which is why the organisation is supported by a committed group of volunteers, who provide a wealth of knowledge, skills and experience.

Volunteers undertake a range of roles, including supporting the work of our gardening and maintenance teams, customer services, fundraising, delivering site tours and experiences, along with supporting our keeping team.

Due to the varied nature of the tasks, a flexible and adaptable attitude is essential. Ideally, you will be able to commit to a minimum of one day per fortnight.

Please note:

  • Volunteers must be at least 18 years old
  • Volunteering is not the same as a work experience placement (see Work Experience)
  • Your own transport is essential as The Big Cat Sanctuary is in a rural location and not accessible by public transport

If you are considering volunteering for us, please click here to complete an “Expression of interest” form. Thank you. 

Current Opportunities

Retail Volunteer

We are seeking customer focused individuals to become part of our retail team at The Big Cat Sanctuary. We are looking for someone to greet guests, assist with lodge guest show ins, assisting with the general running of the shop and everything that may entail. If you like keeping things neat and tidy, pay attention to detail and have fantastic people skills, this could be the role for you. We are looking for individuals to help us at 10:15 – 16:15, ideally one regular day of the week.

A full, clean driving license and access to your own vehicle is essential due to our rural location

To find out more and register your interest, please complete the expression of interest form above.

Housekeeping  Volunteer

We are seeking a volunteer to assist our housekeeping team in providing a 5* professional, efficient and effective housekeeping and cleaning service that enhances the appearance of the site and supports a healthy environment. Principal Duties & Responsibilities include
cleaning our 5* lodges, offices and communal areas to a level that reflects the high standards BCS promotes. Hours would be 10-4pm.

A full, clean driving license and access to your own vehicle is essential due to our rural location

To find out more and register your interest, please complete the expression of interest form above.

Research at The Big Cat Sanctuary

The Big Cat Sanctuary is dedicated to encouraging research that contributes to the body of scientific knowledge about big cats.

We welcome researchers, including students, who wish to conduct research projects. All researchers must fill out the appropriate application documents and have their proposal accepted before any data collection can take place.

If you are interested in carrying out a research project please contact Research@thebigcatsanctuary.org

Thank you.

Work Experience Placements

Unfortunately we do not offer Work Experience Placements at The Big Cat Sanctuary.

Duke of Edinburgh's Award

Unfortunately we do not offer DofE volunteering opportunities or activities at The Big Cat Sanctuary.