Details
Description
In 2017 we packed up our little family and moved from the busy city of London to the countryside ( well only an hour away ! ) We have since been exploring permaculture practices in our backyard.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Charity WorkArt ProjectsHelp with Eco ProjectsTeachingGardeningDIY and building projectsAnimal CareFarmstay helpBabysitting and creative playCreating/ Cooking family mealsHelp around the houseGeneral MaintenanceHelp with Computers/ InternetUN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We see the forest here as a metaphor for experiencing nature's rhythms and the interconnected relationships which, in turn, inspires change.
Registered charity
This host is a registered charity in the UK and is looking for help with their charity project. Guidance on charity worker sponsorship by a UK registered charity, can be found here.
Help
It’s an ever-changing space and activities are constantly changing depending on who’s in residence, our current focus and season.
We would love help with: Organizing, landscaping, orchard pruning, medicinal garden upkeep, permaculture practices, working towards Zero-waste, cooking, carpentry, foraging, bee-keeping, harvesting for the foodbank, writing, building, compost making, animal care*, mushroom growing, cleaning, restoration works, matinence, documentation . . .
...Harvesting the Physic Garden, mulching the sensory garden, planting the food forest, orchard, raking the Living Yoga Mat, meditative spaces...Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
Sometimes you may need to share a bedroom or bathroom with other volunteers ( separate bed of course. )
What else ...
FAQ’S
“I want to volunteer but long term I would appreciate money $£!”
We can talk. We have sometimes been able to support people who are keen to cover their expenses while they are learning.
“Party Time?!”
Possibilities for new friendships are made and a ‘sense’ of community is created when working with like-minded people. Through exposure and intention, we can ALL teach and learn from each other that will inspire new ways of being in the world that shape kinder societies. Being around new people helps us to generate fresh ideas / new perspectives. Words from our daughter: sharing is caring ;)
Although the focus has been curating a social group that can learn and development their skills for this last year of our project we only want to have 1 volunteer/ couple at a time onsite. This might interest folk that are looking for something more mindful/ reflective + introverted. We are also no longer hosting peoples friends to come and stay. The mum that’s set this up is feeling rather burn out.
“Why do you have a minimum amount of time for collaboration”
Our concern is anything shorter than three months and you just end up running around like crazy the whole time doing very manual and maybe less intellectually stimulating things.
“Whatcha looking for atm?”
Minimum medium level of English
21 years old +
"What's your food sitch?!"
We are open-minded when it comes to an individual's needs and can buy gluten + crap snacks if preferred. We deeply respect slow food, yet you’ll also often find that we end up with a cheeky little pizza delivery etc! There's loads of comfort / easy food in the cupboard and freezer if no one is up for cooking! We will always provide a full pantry for you complete with natural and organic dry goods, fresh vegetables + many speciality items for gluten, dairy, meat-free. Nut-free is something we cannot accommodate for atm.
“What do I have to bring with me?”
We provide a bed with linens/blankets, towels, food.
Bring clothes + footwear for the weather, good vibes and a head torch.
“Do you offer Internships?”
Have offered internships up to a Masters Level.
If you have an internship as a part of your studies please send us a link and tell us more.
“Do we have to do things in the rain?”
If only sun brings you happiness you might need to volunteer further south OR learn to sing and dance in the rain (and work.) Rain or shine, baby!
“Do I need to be super(wo)man to help here?”
Kind of yes. The property is on a very steep hill and the work currently requires people who are VERY physically fit and able-bodied at this time. :(
“What’s the process for staying with you?”
If we haven’t already invited you, reach out! We will ask some q’s, run a police check, references etc.
"What's the area like?"
The home is within a couple of minutes walking distance to the "Devil’s Punch Bowl. “
The Devil's Punch Bowl is a large natural amphitheatre and beauty spot and is the source of many stories about the area. The rich and diverse landscape has helped to inspire many great artists and authors, and you will also enjoy an invigorating walk/ride all year round...Take advantage of the stunning National Trust commons!
** Always trying to manage expectations! Due to the owner dealing with some health issues we are currently needing a hardworking, proactive long term person. The taught "learning experience" will be limited. If you are legal to work in this country we might be able to help you find paying work later.A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 25 Hours / Week
Feedback (42)
Ariel's culinary… read more
Contributions included hardscaping, sewing seeds, harvesting, mulching, weeding, building steps and handrail from local wood. He completed all of his tasks with attention to detail and even went above and beyond by taking… read more
In fact... she's coming back soon which must be saying a lot!?
Compassionate, hardworking, intelligent... adored!
I *sadly* only got to spend a short 2.5 weeks here, but those 2.5 weeks were incredible!
The community Charisse has built around this place is unlike anything you'll experience anywhere. The people I met I now consider my friends, every single person I met was such a kind soul, and I had so much… read more
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(4.8)
Communication:
(5.0)
Ariel's culinary… read more
Contributions included hardscaping, sewing seeds, harvesting, mulching, weeding, building steps and handrail from local wood. He completed all of his tasks with attention to detail and even went above and beyond by taking… read more
In fact... she's coming back soon which must be saying a lot!?
Compassionate, hardworking, intelligent... adored!
I *sadly* only got to spend a short 2.5 weeks here, but those 2.5 weeks were incredible!
The community Charisse has built around this place is unlike anything you'll experience anywhere. The people I met I now consider my friends, every single person I met was such a kind soul, and I had so much… read more
The whole place and the surroundings are so beautiful and peaceful and full of life, which made me reconnect with nature. The accommodation is perfect, comfy with an incredible view. I had… read more
He was up to all the physical tasks and even more intellectual ones as he gave advice on very complicated paperwork we were dealing with.
He joined some “field trips” to different parts of Surrey and met us in Wales with other workawayers for a week long “let’s relax for awhile r + r break. Everyone… read more
By reading the reviews on this profile people can figure out the type of host and workawayers you can find… read more
Would happily have him back anytime!
I felt immediately comfortable and thoroughly enjoyed every day I spent here - the people, the nature, the atmosphere and sense of space - and I think it’s partly because I felt like I was also able to build something for myself, and not just… read more
Elliot was so likeable and appreciated in every contribution. He’s reliable, intelligent and… an awesome cook. 5 stars across! Would have him back any time and even want to do a Workaway at his future spot! Wish we could keep him!;)
When he arrived his calm, kind personality were immediately apparent.
While Dec learned about and helped us with foraging, and then processing (huge quantities!) of wild garlic.
He did a fantastic job making wild garlic butter and pesto which was donated to a local food charity providing… read more
Charisse is easily the best host I’ve met so far. She’s just a… read more
Must have been because we were far too sad to see him go :)
One of those dream people all hosts want. . . and fingers crossed we will see him again!
With regard to work, Charisse gave me interesting and varied tasks in the garden. We discussed… read more
He is brave and will put his head to anything that's needed and mucked in with every aspect.
He acted as a mediator when we had a difficult situation and provided me with insight that I was able to provide in future situations. He his missed.
There are few places in my life where I have felt such peace and self actualization as I have at this Workaway! It’s a lot of work, don’t be mistaken, but the incredible,… read more
She cleaned, prepared food for the crew, helped with my daughter ( who by the way LOVED her.) She got a great playlist and awesome vibes. We were sad when he time was up. If you get a request from her... take it !
Those 6 weeks flew by and were continually extended. Here I am 6 months later: learning, growing, tripping, getting back up, winging it,… read more
Aodhnait is highly respected by the… read more
I served mainly as the… read more
She offered lessons, horse training, grooming and land management.
We begged her to stay… if you get a chance to host her…do it!
INCREDIBLE workaway. Worked so hard and intelligently, took ownership of the project, guided / mentored other volunteers, sang while he cooked, we were all sad when he left.
I also experienced many funny and interesting activities and learned many things during my time here.
Looking forward to come… read more
He helped in all aspects and even did extra hours which was really appreciated.
I loved to be surrounded by beautiful nature and amazing inspiring people (as well as animals!). I was lucky to be Kitchen Alchemist, using all the crazy yummy and healthy ingredients provided. I really learned a lot during my stay, also about myself. Can‘t wait to see how the project… read more
People here are very nice, friendly and fun as well. Angelo is a bit lazy, but I like him a lot. I was here @ a funny time - met the 'holidaying' (just made that word up) hosts just for 2 days of my stay; volunteers and other… read more
It was an amazing time we really enjoyed!!
We met a lot of interesting, friendly and wonderful people from different counties and had really good conversations and laughs with them.
We slept in a cabin in the garden with 2 other guys. It was the most amazing thing to woke up in the morning and see the sun shining… read more
Since they traveled together I will write the review of them together.
In their time with us they mucked in with all aspects: cooking, tutoring, cleaning, animal care, service, outdoors work. Just a little bit of everything ! We absolutely love their “can do” attitude to each… read more
They helped in all areas and we would have loved to have them stay longer.
If they contact you... you are very lucky !
At it all, it was a wonderful experience and for sure, we will… read more
He was a grounding presence here and we miss him so much already.
He got along with everyone.. from the 4 year old to the cat.. and always helped out wherever he could. He helped us with digging, built a cabin, helped with admin, painting, cooking, cleaning up.. Lots of outdoors work (but was… read more
She’s willing to work hard + puts a lot of detail in everything she does. She’s also an amazing Didgeridoo player so if you enjoy jam sessions she’s the one for you!
We will miss her and how considerable she is. Thank you for all your hard work and all the funny conversations!
He is very professional, eager to learn new things and keeps motivation high in the people he works with.
There will always be a place for him and his big, crooked… read more
The work flow here is… read more
He built a beautiful wooden storage bench for us and helped build an insulated cabin on the plot. He had creative + pragmatic solutions for the complex issues that arise in any start-up.
We hope he will come back + start… read more
Nick is one of the most modest Workaways Ive met. He was so unassuming but it turns out he knows something about everything. He was committed to finishing tasks and had a high standard for his work. He project managed a cabin during his time with us!
Denika is friken brill. This former model turned ecowarrior artist knows how to… read more
I dont understand where she gets her energy from. She also is a wise woman.
This was the most luxurious workaway experience we’ve ever had.
She likes to stay busy + since I trust her totally she always got the more tricky tasks. We tried hiding her passport so she wouldn’t go home… lol… well… we wanted to!
It was my first workaway experience and i didn't know what expecting from it which made my prospective of the situation like a truly gift;
Charisse and her family are just a… read more
We trusted him with the kids, he mucked in, worked so hard and always had the best attitude. He would quickly and kindly diffuse divisive language which created a really positive vibe in the group. We are so sad his time with us is complete (even though he extended his stay) and hope we will be… read more
Missing Hanuman (the hairless cat) the most. Obvs.
I arranged to spend around 3-5 weeks back in Feb/March on this project and probably extended my stay three times or more.
I was met with so much of the expected and non expected.
Here I… read more
"Practically" speaking :
Her volunteering for 10 hours a week is most peoples 25 hours a week ! ( or more ! )
She’s reliable, thorough, easy going, honest, uses common sense, and fits in with everyone.
"Personally" speaking: she will be ALWAYS welcome here. She could always call this home.
She adds so much… read more
I am vegan and all my dietary needs were taken care of… There was always plenty of… read more
Carolin is SUCH an animal lover and is very inspires that love to those around her.
She helped with so many things ( kids entertainment, cleaning, being a kitchen alchemist etc ! ) We love her so much we’ve asked her to come back… and she is in a couple of weeks for 6 months +… read more
I came to work on this project as a part of an informal, kinda personally defined, pilgrimage. The final destination in my pilgrimage was a Zen… read more
Although short, it was very potent.
We were able to chat on the London drive about the reason behind this project + his reflections were profound to me. Its these “in-between” work/ service times that can be so great and I was thankful to have that with him.
I wish he could have stayed longer to help… read more
“Google” as I called him because his knowledge is very broad ( don’t call him that though!)
COOL GUY!
He mucked in with everything and even stayed longer than planned… wish it was even longer tho!!
I would seek his advice on various building projects. A paid professional we had creating steep stairs with… read more
Firstly a warm welcoming and place to stay with plenty of healthy top quality food to fill our belly.
A family open, fun and kind who shares an interest in promoting well being for everybody. Charisse always makes sure you are happy with your stay in many ways. She is a woman… read more
Hes so fun to have around and work with.
Everyone is so sad now that hes gone... even the land !
We was contacted by Paige for Business Internship when she was looking for a 4 month, 35 hours a week internship with a “Conscious Business” for her Masters. I knew very early on that she was someone that I wanted to work with as she came across as… read more
They are probably the most prolific duo you will ever meet !
Disciplined, hilarious, super talented, worked a ton,
I would bribe them back here anytime they wanted to come.
We felt really lucky to have someone as educated in the plant world as her here with us.
She helped out in the project here but also went to London to help out at our business with a really keen attitude. . . and helped with social media… read more
She was keen to try new experiences.
She had to leave early in the end for another opportunity.
We wish her all the very best!!
Near to the house there is National Trust knowing for the Devil's Punch Bowl, a… read more
His focus was carpentry. But he totally mucked into EVERYTHANG.
He helped with my daughter, made food and best of all made us laugh - ALL THE TIME !
We’ve asked him to never leave !
Charisse is doing an amazing project there, it was a pleasure to be able to collaborate. And of course see you in the future!!! =D
VERY talented as well !
She knows her way around a kitchen + is SO positive !!!
I wish she could stay with us always.
On her downtime she would retreat to her room to meditate or would make jewellery.
My 4 year old daughter LOVED her + saw her as a big sister.
Literally the best workawayer !
She helped with my daughter, made the most amazing food for the family etc.
She also took incredible pictures and videos for our business that we used in all our socials.
If only I could clone her… but theres only one Theresa !
If you are lucky enough to be approached by her DO NOT PASS AND GO !… read more
The kind you hope your daughter would grow up to be !
She was only with us a short time but mucked in with all aspects + there was a lot of work !
Very easy to work & understand.
She is so incredibly thoughtful & really wants you to feel at home while you are with her.
Providing amazingly healthy food & a comfortable space, I am so grateful, for who she is, and what… read more
I soon found Naomi focus to be caring for the vibes of my tribe !
She helped with my daughter … a very graceful + loving approach to children.
I work so hard sometimes I forget to eat… she noticed that and quietly made super healthy yummy snacks !
She would always check in …… read more