South East Rivers Trust: Home

Employees from the South East Rivers Trust clearing weed from a riverbank.

Who we are and what we do

Restoring, protecting and enhancing the South East's waterways for people and nature

A hand holding a mobile phone in front of a river with the Big River Watch app on the screen.

What we discovered during Big River Watch

Thousands of volunteers took part in this spring's Big River Watch, helping to build a clearer picture of river health across the country. The results reveal valuable insights into the condition of our waterways and the challenges they face. Discover the key findings, explore the data, and see how citizen science is helping drive action for healthier rivers.

Discover your rivers

Find your local river with the help of our map. Use the map to find out which catchment you are in and see how your local river connects to the wider network of waterways.

What we do

We protect and restore rivers across the South East, inspiring all ages to enjoy and care for them. Our expert team improves habitats, water quality and flood resilience, partnering with communities to tackle water scarcity, boost biodiversity and deliver lasting, evidence-led change.

Discover our latest projects

Chalk Stream Connectors

With support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Chalk Stream Connectors is helping communities connect with four rare chalk streams across South London.

Flood and drought resilience in Kent

Across 16 hectares of the Upper Beult catchment in Kent, we’ve been restoring the landscape to hold water naturally and make the river system more resilient to flooding and drought.

Natural Flood Management in the Upper Mole

Working with Gatwick Airport and local landowners, we’re using nature-based solutions to slow the flow of water, reduce flood risk and create healthier habitats for wildlife.

Farming and nature thriving together

Discover how farmers in the Eden Valley are working together to improve water quality, support wildlife and create a resilient, productive landscape.

Our mission and impact

Healthy rivers are essential to life on earth. With your help, we've achieved so much for rivers across South East England.

It’s been wonderful to work with the South East Rivers Trust. The advice and support have made a huge difference.

Bek Bibby - fifth generation grower at West Pikefish Farm

A group of people wearing waders and using tools in a river.

Healthy rivers for the South East

We work with communities, landowners and partners to restore and protect rivers across the South East so they can thrive for people and wildlife. Together we are helping rivers become cleaner, healthier and more resilient in a changing climate.

33 km

fish passage created

300

river cleanups

50,000 m³

flood storage created

40,000

volunteer hours restoring rivers

A family paddling on a river surrounded by trees and dappled sunlight.

Donate

Your donations are vital in helping us restore and protect rivers across the South East of England. Together, we can make a lasting impact, for people and wildlife.