What will I do?
Your role will vary by event. Our lifeguards and lifesavers will operate from boats, from the lake bank or even on a paddle craft. You won't be asked to do something you aren't competent at, but we will offer training where possible.
Want to do something different this summer?
Colwick Park Lifeguards have opportunities at events across the summer, including major festivals like Secret Garden Party, Reading Festival, Henley Royal Regatta, Latitude Festival and loads more.
We're looking for volunteers to join our team, including lifeguards / lifesavers, powerboat helms, cooks / chefs and people to help maintain the RLSS UK Code of Conduct on site.
Colwick Park Lifeguards is a club based in Nottingham, but with volunteers from around the country from all sorts of walks of life. We encourage applications from everyone; sometimes there will be a minimum age for an event which will be due to national legislation or local authority restrictions.
To find out more information or to volunteer for an event, please complete the 'Sign-up or Request Info' form on the menu and someone will be in touch!
What type of people volunteer like this?
The one thing that makes our organisation great is the mix of individuals from different backgrounds - each bringing their own experience and skills.
Where will I stay?
At the one day events you will come that day and go home afterwards. At the multiple date events (where shown as one event selection below) you will have accommodation - this differs by event and could be a house, space to bring your tent to camp or even sleeping on a boat!
How much do I have to do a day?
This differs by event. Expect to do at least eight hours spread across the day. For those volunteers who are aged 16-17 (where allowed) we comply with government advice, for example you would not be allowed to volunteer overnight.
How do I get there?
This differs by event, sometimes we can pick you up on the way, other times you may have to travel. Travel expenses are often reimbursed but this must be agreed in advance. Please consider sustainable transport options such as public transport or sharing cars.
What festivals do you do?
Reading Festival, Latitude Festival, Port Elliot Festival, Secret Garden Party, Wilderness Festival, Nottingham Riverside Festival, Detonate Festival.
See full list of open events on the sign up page.
Can I see any of the event?
Yes! If your chosen event is something you'd like to enjoy in your downtime (for example a music festival or national event), then we allow for this within the shift system. We have to put operational needs first but will be as fair as possible.
Is everyone a volunteer?
Yes. All the people you are deployed alongside are volunteers, as are the administrators, mechanics, management, etc.
What age restrictions are there?
In line with RLSS UK and RYA guidance we look for a minimum age of 16. This is also a Health & Safety requirement on all festival sites due to the possible movement of machinery within arenas. At events where we cover late into or through the night, these shifts must be done by persons aged 18 or over. In addition Secret Garden Party is strictly open to those aged 18 or over to comply with their licence.
There are a limited number of places available to those aged 14-15 at some events to observe and train. Please contact for details.
"I just want free tickets really"
Then you're in the wrong place. We only want to hear from genuine volunteers who care about helping others. We will ask for a copy of a photocard driving licence or passport, which will be kept on file and passed to the police if you're attempting to be a freeloader. We'll take it seriously so don't bother trying!