Exciting News: ARG UK Launches Youth Committee for Aspiring Herpetologists

A New Initiative for Young Conservationists

Amphibian and Reptile Group UK's Training and Events Intern, Maiya Evans, has proposed an exciting new initiative: the formation of a youth committee for individuals aged 18-26. This committee aims to empower young minds. Passionate about reptiles and amphibians, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to conservation efforts.

ARG UK is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) registered in England and Wales since 2016. It serves as a network for volunteers dedicated to conserving the reptiles and amphibians of the United Kingdom. The organisation supports and promotes various groups across the country.

Currently, there are around 40 groups in the UK, with approximately 5,000 volunteers actively involved. ARG UK offers numerous ways to support these enthusiastic participants:

1. Providing public liability insurance for ARGs.

2. Offering free websites for new groups in the UK.

3. Assisting in organising regional conferences and the annual national conference (the Herpetofauna Workers' Meeting).

4. Publishing advice notes on topics related to amphibian and reptile conservation.

5. Managing the ARG UK100% Fund, which provides up to £250 for ARGs to carry out practical projects benefiting amphibian and reptile conservation.

6. Offering online recording through 'the Record Pool' to help capture herpetofauna data from across the UK.

   
   

The Announcement

This innovative idea was unveiled during the Annual General Meeting of ARG UK on 7th January 2026. The atmosphere was filled with hope for the future of conservation. Young aspiring herpetologists will have the chance to share their thoughts and ideas, contributing to the organisation's direction.

The youth committee will provide a platform for members to discuss new project ideas and offer feedback to ARG UK's leadership. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about local herpetology conservation while developing essential skills such as leadership and collaboration through 3-5 meetings each year.

Maiya emphasises the importance of safeguarding, stating that individuals under 18 will need "parental permission and some extra safeguarding in place." This ensures a safe and supportive environment for all participants.

A Voice for Young Conservationists

"This will be complementary with our affiliated ARG groups (i.e. you can be a member of both)," Maiya explains. The youth committee will give young people their own voice, additional mentoring, and the chance to shape the organisation's direction.

No prior experience is necessary—just a passion for working with others to help conserve amphibians and reptiles. Membership is voluntary and unpaid, but we strive to ensure the experience is both rewarding and impactful.

If you're between 18 and 26, this is your chance to make a difference! Join us in our mission to protect and conserve the incredible reptiles and amphibians of the UK.

If you've made it this far and are between or below 18 and 26, then please click the picture below to start applying: