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Support vital searches
Play a key role in helping locate missing people quickly and safely, often in time-critical situations.
Join Our Team
Dorset Search and Rescue is made up entirely of dedicated volunteers who give their time, skills, and commitment to help find and assist those in need across Dorset's diverse and often challenging landscapes. From rugged coastlines and ancient heathlands to dense woodland and remote countryside, our volunteers are trained to respond in some of the most demanding conditions, working alongside the police, coastguard, and other emergency services to bring people home safely. Whether you are looking to make a real difference in your community, develop life-saving skills, or simply be part of an incredible team, volunteering with Dorset Search and Rescue could be one of the most rewarding decisions you ever make.
Join the team
Volunteer with Dorset Search & Rescue
Help make Dorset safer by supporting life-saving searches for vulnerable missing people. Whether you want to be operational on the ground or support the team behind the scenes, your time and skills can make a real difference.
Why Volunteer?
Dorset Search & Rescue is powered by volunteers. We assist emergency services by searching for vulnerable missing people in urban, rural and coastal environments. Every role matters, and every volunteer helps strengthen our ability to respond.
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Train with purpose
Build practical skills in navigation, search tactics, communication, teamwork and incident support.
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Serve your community
Make a direct, positive impact in Dorset while becoming part of a trusted and committed volunteer organisation.
Volunteer Roles
We welcome people from a range of backgrounds and experience levels. Operational and non-operational opportunities may be available.
Search Technician
Take part in ground searches, follow search plans, work safely in teams and support callouts across Dorset.
Drone Support
Assist with aerial search capability, image capture and operational support, subject to training and certification requirements.
Fundraising & Events
Help raise awareness and income through community events, talks, campaigns and supporter engagement.
Control & Coordination
Support planning, communications, logging and operational coordination during training and live incidents.
Administration
Use your organisational skills to help with records, volunteer support, communications and day-to-day operations.
Specialist Skills
If you have expertise in mapping, welfare, technology, media or logistics, there may be a place for your skills on the team.
What We’re Looking For
- Commitment, reliability and a willingness to learn
- Good teamwork and clear communication
- A calm and professional approach under pressure
- Reasonable fitness for operational field roles
- Respect for procedures, safety and confidentiality
- A genuine desire to help people in crisis
Training & Commitment
Full training is provided for suitable volunteers. This may include search techniques, radio procedure, navigation, personal safety, teamworking and incident awareness.
Volunteers are usually expected to attend regular training sessions and, for operational roles, be available for some callouts when possible.
Exact expectations will depend on the role and your availability.
How to Join
Our application process is designed to help you understand the role and ensure you’re a good fit for the team.
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Apply
Complete the volunteer enquiry or application form.
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Meet Us
Attend an information session or informal introduction.
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Checks
Complete any relevant vetting, references or role checks.
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Start Training
Begin your induction and role-specific training journey.