Supporting Your Local Branch

Supporting Your Local Branch: The Importance of AGMs and Volunteering at BDS

Members of the British Deer Society (BDS) are part of a community dedicated to the welfare and sustainable management of deer across the UK. If you are a BDS member, one of the most important ways you can engage with and support this community is by attending your regional branch’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). Your involvement is crucial to ensuring the future of deer conservation efforts in your area.

Why Do We Hold AGMs?

AGMs are an essential part of BDS’s charity structure, providing a platform for members to come together, share their thoughts, and discuss future plans. These meetings are where key decisions are made, including the election of branch officers, reviewing past activities, and planning for the year ahead. AGMs also provide an opportunity for members to hear about the latest developments in the charity and wider deer world.

In addition to formal business, AGMs are a chance for members to ask questions, raise concerns, and offer suggestions on how BDS can better support deer and deer management in the area. By attending, you ensure that the voices of members are heard, and you contribute to shaping the efforts in your region to support the charity’s national strategy.

Why Are AGMs Important?

The AGMs held by each regional branch are vital to the success of BDS as a whole. These meetings not only allow for the sharing of knowledge and experience but also foster a sense of community and collaboration among members. By attending your local AGM, you help strengthen the foundation of BDS and ensure that the organisation remains responsive to the needs of its members and the wider deer community.

Your participation helps ensure that BDS can continue to advocate for deer welfare, promote sustainable management practices, and support local initiatives that benefit both deer and their habitats.

Why Should You Support Your Branch AGM?

Your support at an AGM is more than just attendance—it is about engaging with your local branch’s work and demonstrating your commitment to deer welfare. By attending, you show that you care about the direction of BDS and are willing to contribute to its success. It is also an opportunity to network with fellow members, share your experiences, and learn from others who are also passionate about deer.

Supporting your AGM is also an opportunity to make a difference. Whether you are new to BDS or have been a member for years, your voice matters. Every member’s input is valuable, and the collective strength of the BDS community is built on the active participation of individuals like you.

Branch AGMs

Some of the dates currently set for AGMs are below, while more will be notified by other branches as soon as their meeting dates are confirmed:

• 23rd January 2025 – Branch AGM (West)
• 24th January 2025 – Branch AGM (Northern Ireland)
• 1st February 2025 – Bisley Range Day and Branch AGM (South East England)
• 4th February 2025 – Safari Experiences with Steve Grigson and Branch AGM (South East Scotland)
• 6th February 2025 – Branch AGM (Wessex)
• 7th February 2025 – Branch AGM (East Mercia)
• 8th February 2025 – Branch AGM (East Anglia)
• 9th February 2025 – Branch AGM – Ernespie House Hotel (South West Scotland)
• 23rd March 2025 – Branch AGM (Venue TBC) (Midlands, Wales and the Marches)

View Branch Pages

Volunteering at Branch Level: A Call to Action

In addition to attending AGMs, we encourage members to volunteer at branch level to support the work that BDS is doing in each region. Volunteering is a fantastic way to get involved, meet like-minded individuals, and make a tangible impact in your area.

Your time, skills, and expertise can help BDS reach new heights in its mission to promote deer welfare and sustainable management. Whether you can dedicate a few hours a month or take on a more active role, there is always a need for volunteers to support the work of the regional branches. Volunteering not only benefits the society but also allows you to develop new skills and deepen your connection with the deer community.

Get Involved Today

Many of our branches will have AGMs during the first few months of 2025 and we encourage you to attend your local branch’s AGM and consider how you can support the work of BDS in your area. Your participation, whether through attending meetings, offering your time, or sharing your expertise, is invaluable in helping BDS achieve its goals.

Together, we can continue to make a difference for deer and deer management across the UK.