Frequently Asked Questions – Andover Trees United (ATU)


What is Andover Trees United and what do you do?

Andover Trees is a community-led environmental charity based in Andover, Hampshire. We care for and grow spaces like Diamond Wood, creating thriving habitats for wildlife while offering opportunities for people to connect with nature. Through conservation work, education and community events, we aim to enrich lives, protect biodiversity and inspire long-term environmental action.

Where is Diamond Wood and can I visit?

Diamond Wood, also known as Harmony Woods, is located in Andover and is open to the public. It’s a welcoming green space designed for both people and wildlife, with paths for walking and areas that support local biodiversity. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the woodland responsibly and help us protect it for future generations.

How can I get involved with Andover Trees?

There are many ways to get involved, whether you have an hour or want to become more regularly engaged. You can join our weekly volunteer conservation days, attend our monthly community days, take part in seasonal events, or support us through membership.

View upcoming opportunities on our events calendar: https://www.andovertrees.org.uk/events-calendar

If you’d like to get involved directly, please contact: abbey.sadler@andovertrees.org.uk

Do I need experience to volunteer?

No experience is needed at all. Our volunteering sessions are open, inclusive and designed for all abilities. Whether you’re completely new to conservation or already have experience, our team will guide you through activities and make sure you feel comfortable and involved.

To express your interest, email: abbey.sadler@andovertrees.org.uk

What happens at a volunteer conservation day?

Volunteer days focus on practical conservation work that helps maintain and improve the woodland. This can include tree care, habitat creation, wildflower planting and seasonal projects. It’s also a great opportunity to meet people, learn new skills and spend time outdoors.

Find your next session here: https://www.andovertrees.org.uk/events-calendar

Are your activities suitable for families and children?

Yes, many of our activities are designed with families in mind. We regularly host events such as nature trails, storytelling sessions, craft workshops and seasonal activities that help children learn about the natural world in a fun and engaging way.

See what’s coming up: https://www.andovertrees.org.uk/events-calendar

How does membership support Andover Trees?

By becoming a member, you are directly supporting the ongoing care and growth of Diamond Wood and our wider environmental work. Membership helps fund tools, planting initiatives, education programmes and community events, ensuring the woodland can thrive for years to come. For more membership FAQs, please see below.

Join us here: https://www.andovertrees.org.uk/membership-andover-trees

Why are community woodlands important?

Community woodlands like Diamond Wood play a vital role in supporting biodiversity, improving air quality and helping tackle climate change. They also provide accessible green spaces that support wellbeing, education and community connection, something that is more important than ever.

What is the Disappearing Wildflowers project?

Our Disappearing Wildflowers project focuses on restoring vital habitats such as chalk grasslands, which are essential for pollinators. Through home planting kits, community planting days and public installations, we are raising awareness and helping more wildflowers grow across Andover.

Read more here: https://www.andovertrees.org.uk/news-list/wildflowers2026

Can schools and groups get involved?

Yes, we actively work with schools, community groups and organisations. Diamond Wood acts as a living classroom where people can learn about nature, conservation and sustainability in a hands-on and engaging way. To discuss partnerships or group visits, please email: abbey.sadler@andovertrees.org.uk

How are you funded?

Andover Trees is a charity and relies on a combination of donations, memberships, grants and community fundraising. Every contribution goes directly back into supporting our work, from maintaining the woodland to delivering education and community programmes.

Support us here: https://www.andovertrees.org.uk/membership-andover-trees

How can I support Andover Trees if I can’t volunteer?

If you’re unable to volunteer, there are still plenty of ways to support us. You can become a member, donate, attend events or simply help spread the word about what we do. Every action helps us grow our impact. 

Are your events free or paid?

We offer a mix of free and paid events. Many of our community conservation days are free to attend, while some workshops and special events have a small fee to help cover costs and support the charity. Browse all events here: https://www.andovertrees.org.uk/events-calendar

How do I find out about upcoming events?

You can view all upcoming events on our website’s events calendar. We also share updates on social media and through our newsletters, so you can stay connected and never miss an opportunity to get involved. Visit the events page: https://www.andovertrees.org.uk/events-calendar

Who do I contact for general enquiries?

For general questions about Andover Trees, events, volunteering or partnerships, please contact our team at: abbey.sadler@andovertrees.org.uk

Why is your work important right now?

Nature is under increasing pressure, with habitats declining and biodiversity at risk. Local action plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges. By restoring green spaces and bringing people closer to nature, Andover Trees is helping to create a healthier environment for both wildlife and the community.

Andover Trees United (ATU) Membership FAQs

Be Part of Something Growing

Join a community dedicated to nature, sustainability, and bringing people together through meaningful outdoor experiences. By becoming an ATU member, you directly support the care and growth of our environment and woodland spaces while gaining access to exclusive opportunities for learning and stewardship to build a lifelong connection to nature and a sustainable future.

Membership Options

We offer a range of memberships to suit individuals, families, young people, and organisations:

  • Junior Membership – for young people aged 4 to 16 years old

  • Individual Membership – for individual adults (17+ years old)

  • Couple Membership – for two adults (17+ years old)

  • Family Membership – for up to four people from the same family and must include at least one young person aged 4-16 years old (no charge for under 4s)

  • Lifetime Membership – a one-off payment for lifelong support

  • Guardian Membership – for our valued volunteers who have volunteered more than twice in one year and have the opportunity to work towards the Kings Award for Voluntary Service

  • Young Green Ambassador – for young people (aged 4 to 16 years old) passionate about sustainability (launching September 2026)

  • Patron Membership – by invitation only from our Founder and Trustees

  • Corporate Membership – for organisations financially supporting our work

What You’ll Receive

As an ATU member, you’ll enjoy:

  • Access to exclusive events and learning sessions

  • Regular updates and newsletters from ATU

  • Opportunities to get involved in biodiversity, conservation and community initiatives

  • Support of a growing movement supporting biodiversity, youth voices and sustainability

Additional recognition and benefits may apply for Lifetime, Guardian, Patron, and Corporate members.

How It Works

Signing up is simple:

  1. Choose your membership type

  2. Complete your registration online

  3. Receive your confirmation email and membership details

All memberships are managed securely online, with clear communication at every stage.

Payments & Renewals

  • Monthly memberships renew automatically each month

  • Annual memberships will renew automatically, manual renewal is possible (if selected) 

  • Lifetime membership is a one-off payment with no renewal

You will receive confirmation emails for each payment, along with reminders ahead of renewal dates.

Can I cancel my membership?

Yes. You can cancel at any time. Your membership will remain active until the end of your current billing period, and no further payments will be taken.

Will I be notified before renewal?

Yes. You will receive a reminder approximately 30 days before renewal or expiry, giving you time to make any changes.

Can I get a refund?

Membership payments are generally non-refundable. However, if you believe a payment has been made in error, please contact us at abbey.sadler@andovertrees.org.uk and we will review your request.

Can membership discounts be used in the shop or for cabin hire?

No. Membership benefits do not apply to shop purchases or cabin/woodland hire.

What happens if my payment fails?

You will be notified and asked to update your payment details. Your membership may lapse if payment is not completed.

Payments & Platform

Memberships are processed securely through a third-party payment provider. Some elements such as payment processing, renewals, and notifications are managed automatically.

Optional Contributions

At checkout, you may see an optional contribution to support the 3rd party payment platform Zeffy. This is entirely voluntary and can be adjusted or removed.

Join ATU Today

Be part of a growing community making a real difference.

Join today and help us shape a more sustainable future.