CJS Focus on Volunteering: February 2011

A major element of the ‘Big Society’ will give more power to locals making decisions on local matters. This seems logical and worthy. Most people however are not shaken into action until they are directly affected, so does this mean the majority of the population will not get involved? How the ‘Big Society’ shapes up in relevant policy should be clearer this spring, when Defra publishes its Natural Environment White Paper.

● Encourage people to take an active role in their communities (volunteerism).

Government has taken the view that it can’t control and provide everything. The crucial exercise of course is to identify without bias those aspects of what government provides that add value to (rather than hinder) local life. These ‘adding value’ aspects should surely then continue to be delivered by government rather than local people.

Do countryside and environmental organisations outside the public sector (supported and sometimes run by volunteers) provide a mechanism for the Big Society? Voluntary organisations are not devoid of bureaucracy. There is a Chinese proverb, ‘if everybody cleaned outside their own front door it would not be necessary to employ people to do it’ but the ‘if’ here is so big that we will never climb over it. It is rewarding to help your own locality, but how does a new ‘Friends of’ group start to look after a newly ‘acquired’ meadow, woodland or trail effectively? Is valuing the fact that you are part of a community enough if you are frustrated by not having the skills or resources to conserve and improve the local environment? Is it right to expect volunteers to do in their spare time, for free, what paid, highly trained people do?

Formed in 1966 the CMA is the largest organisation supporting the work of conservation, access and recreation professionals in the natural greenspace and countryside sector throughout England and Wales.

Do something different in 2011 and help restore the derelict waterways of England and Wales. Every year WRG runs over 20 week-long working holidays and lots of weekend 'digs'. Learn heritage skills, meet new people and most of all have fun! Check out the WRG website www.wrg.org.uk for more details.

RSPB Volunteer & Farmer Alliance

'It's great that a local farmer is benefitting from my surveys, and I have benefitted too, learning about the farmer's perspective of the countryside.' Do you know your farmland birds? You could support farmland bird conservation too, by volunteering with the RSPB to undertake a survey. Please e-mail v&fa@rspb.org.uk

Your canal needs you! Get involved in one of British Waterways’ new regular volunteering parties across the country and make a real difference to your local waterway. You could be doing anything from environment management and conservation work to painting locks or tackling problem patches. www.waterscape.com/volunteering or email volunteer@britishwaterways.co.uk

Volunteer work in the UK and volunteer placements abroad. Search for a volunteering career break and get free advice and information from the UK's biggest independent career break website.

http://www.thecareerbreaksite.com/volunteer

VINE is a forum for nature conservationists, land managers and all who care about nature. We believe a wider discussion of ethics and values in nature conservation will help conservationists to be more creative and effective. We also celebrate the natural environment for its own intrinsic value. www.vineproject.org.uk

What are you doing on the 9th of March 2011? Want to hear the latest from Nick Hurd, Minister for the Big Society, on the Big Society and what it means for Volunteer Managers? Want to join with fellow Volunteer Managers to discuss Volunteer Management and it’s role, if any, in the Big Society? Then you should be booking a place at the first ever Association of Volunteer Managers Conference in central London. alan.murray@volunteermanagers.org.uk

BTCV training, providing you with down to earth information and practical sessions throughout the UK. From just a day to a year See our latest range of events at http://shop.btcv.org.uk/shop/level1/19/level ,or work your way through from http://btcv.org

DES The BHS has launched an initiative to map all routes used by horse riders & carriage drivers as part of our aim to defend, extend & promote access for all equestrians. Mapped routes will be displayed on EMAGIN (Equine Mapping & Geographical Information Network) www.emagin.org The site uses digital BING mapping, aerial photography & Ordnance Survey 1:25000 data to display routes, businesses & events. BUT Can take up as much or as little time as you like. Only need a means of getting around the routes you can walk, cycle, ride or carriage drive & you need a pen. You can use GPS technology & take advantage of the automated route recording option. ASK John Young Mon – Wed 02476 840584 j.young@bhs.org.uk The first 25 people to volunteer quoting CJS will receive a free USB memory stick.

PAY expenses + training FOR GARDEN ORGANIC in partnership with Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse

DES Using your food-growing skill & passion to engage with people & help them start growing their own food in gardens, windowsills, allotments & communal land. BUT 2 or more years’ food growing experience & passion for helping others learn. ASK Gabbie Sharp gsharp@gardenorganic.org.uk 07584 583803

DES We’re looking for 100+ volunteers to help support individuals, communities & businesses plant trees. By sharing your knowledge of trees & woodland creation you will inspire, advise & support those interested in planting trees & creating woodland. You will use online resources to answer questions either on the phone or by email, build relationships with your contacts, engage communities & landowners & visit their planting sites where appropriate to provide encouragement. The role takes a min of 2 hrs a week as well as travelling time, however we aim to assign you with visits only 30-40 mins away. BUT Experience of community development, consultation & working with others within woodland creation & / or personal experience of organising the planning, development & planting of woodland / urban trees. Willing to share information about your own experiences & provide information in a supportive & encouraging manner. Good communication skills. Mobile phone & access to computer with internet. ASK www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/volunteering

DES A bit like mystery shoppers, the Ramblers are looking for people to carry out a ‘light-touch survey’ of places to walk near where they live. The data that is then fed back to us can help to create a map of where the best & the worst places to walk are. It will also give us an opportunity to help prove that there is a link between how good a path is & how much you enjoy your walk. The survey is very easy to carry out & is a great way to spend an afternoon. BUT Anyone can be a Mystery Walker. ASK http://www.ramblers.org.uk/Campaigns+Policy/Mystery+Walker

DES Offering advice & support to people who want to start growing fruit & veg, New Master Gardeners will join a 140 strong network of marvellous vols who: mentor & inspire individuals, couples & families to grow food; spread the word to the wider community through events, talks, schools & other innovative means. Nearly 9,000 food growing conversations & over 350 registered households with 1,000 residents since May 2010. Details of current Master Gardener programmes & the spring area training sites available on our website (below), with new programmes & training dates to follow. You can choose how & when you vol to fit in with lives & interests. BUT Enthusiastic with some growing experience. To live in one of our 5 project areas. ASK Philip Turvil, Project Manager, 024 76217718 pturvil@gardenorganic.org.uk http://mastergardeners.org.uk/about

The Pentland Hills Regional Park covers an area of beautiful countryside on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The rounded hills have a history of being used by people for farming (mainly sheep), water catchment, forestry, military training and grouse shooting. This variety of uses has created an attractive landscape of reservoirs, small woodlands, pasture, rough grassland and heather moorland. Visitors often comment you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere, where as you are only four miles from the centre of Scotland’s Capital. The Park receives half a million visitors a year and lends itself to many uses from short walks suitable for wheelchairs to whole day strenuous challenges over the tops, cycling or horse riding through the Cleughs (valleys), fishing, golf, paragliding and even skiing on the largest dry ski slope in Europe.

The Regional Park aims to protect the landscape and habitats, help visitors enjoy the area and reduce any conflicts between the landowners and visitors. Soon after the Ranger Service was set up, it was clear that some of the visitors not only wanted to enjoy the Hills, they wanted to “put something back”. At first people helped on an ad hoc basis, then a Conservation Group was set up and volunteers came once a month to help with practical work in the Park. The Ranger Service looked into how these people who are passionate about the Pentlands could best contribute to the working of the park and it concluded much more could be achieved. In 1997 a Voluntary Ranger Service was set up.

Many good things have come from the Voluntary Ranger Service and one is the formation of the Friends of the Pentlands; a charity to help protect and conserve the Pentland Hills. A Volunteer also came up with the great idea to have an art and photographic competition. The entries to the very successful Pentland Inspirations Competition are of such a high standard they form an exhibition that tours the area.

Dean Sewell voluntary ranger said ‘My experience of being a Pentland Hills VR has been a very positive one. I volunteered and trained in about 2003, that’s BC (before children) when I had more time on my hands. I don’t get out very often at all as family and my full-time job have to come first, but when I do, it’s a great feeling being outdoors for the whole day. Sometimes we can go to a less popular part of the Park and see few people but report on the state of paths and stiles, and on other days we can see lots of people, and can often get into conversation with them. The Ranger service is very tolerant of my relative inactivity, but I hang on in there and in future years hope to help more often.’

Long standing voluntary ranger John Stirling said this about the Service ‘The Voluntary Ranger Service is a true value for money service as it offers a double benefit to all that take part. It augments a Ranger Service that is being called upon more and more to add benefit to the quality of experience for the public that are venturing into the countryside seeking relaxation from the stress of everyday living and provides the Volunteer taking part with a learning experience second to none. Given that we are moving into austere times the attributes of the service will never be needed more than at present’

If you would like any further information about the Pentland Hills Voluntary Ranger Service or the Pentland Hills Regional Park please contact us: Telephone 0131 445 3383 E-mail pentlandhills@edinburgh.gov.uk Website www.pentlandhills.org Address Pentland Hills Regional Park HQ. Boghall Farm, Biggar Road, Edinburgh EH10 7DX

The Pentland Hills are obviously providing advice and guidance on a possible model for other services, Zoe Morris from the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park sought advice when setting up their Volunteer Ranger Service. Below Zoe describes her experience during the development of the service set to launch in 2011.

In April 2011, the first Volunteer Rangers will start at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Volunteers have always been involved in a variety of activities at the National Park, such as practical projects and newsletter contributions. However 1.5 years ago we started considering the idea of Volunteer Rangers to assist with visitor focused activities in the summer and wider opportunities throughout the year. So, in July 2009 I visited the Pentland Hills to meet Victor Partridge who had lots of invaluable experience of working with Volunteer Rangers to share. I also met and spoke with other organisations and conducted a survey of National Parks to find out about their Volunteer Rangers.

Bird Surveyor Badenoch & Strathspey, Highland To survey breeding waders & key passerines on farmland within Badenoch & Strathspey. Also carry out basic vegetation mapping. BUT Good bird ID skills, incl songs & calls, for waders & farmland passerines. The survey will need to be carried out in the early morning or evening & paperwork, incl vegetation mapping, completed.

Office Administrator Insh Marshes NNR, Kingussie, Highland To assist in the day to day running of a small office. Incl general admin, answering phone calls, ordering leaflets, filing, data entry, computer work. BUT Must be organised, have good admin skills, basic computer literacy & good communication skills. Interest in nature conservation issues useful. ASK / chat Pete Moore, 01540 661518 07866 578079 pete.moore@rspb.org.uk

DES / BUT Come & help us restore & expand native woodlands, & learn new skills such as tree planting, felling & dry-stane dyking. The activities are usually on the first Sunday of the month, & run from 10am to 4pm. There are regular breaks & you can do as little or as much as you choose. Please bring your own lunch. All tools, training & any safety equipment will be provided. We regret we cannot provide transport. ASK Please check our website for alterations or updates, www.scottishnativewoods.org.uk More info or to book a place on an activity: Chris Childe, Community Education Officer, 01337 832619 chris.childe@scottishnativewoods.org.uk

2 Assistant Rangers Required from mid-June to end of August/September to assist the Perthshire Ranger in a wide range of duties. Assist in carrying out practical conservation tasks, incl control of bracken & other non-natives, footpath maintenance & site infrastructure reports. Assist in carrying out flora & fauna surveys and with day to day running of the Centre, manning the desk, speaking to the public & recruiting new members. Gain experience in conservation management, visitor management & surveying & monitoring. BUT Ability to work as part of a group; some practical conservation & survey skills advantage; ability to communicate with the public; reasonable standard of fitness; own transport advantage. Disclosure Scotland (CRBS) clearance required. PAY Possible strimmer qual & 1st aid cert. All existing benefits protected.

Species Protection Volunteers Required from mid-March to beginning of May – rotational shift rota to provide 24 hr protection. Be responsible for carrying out surveillance of osprey nest & surrounding area, monitoring site & liaison with daily vols & Wildlife Crime Officer, particularly during nightshifts. Gain experience in conservation management & species protection. BUT Able to work in hides during nightshifts; ability to work as part of a group and communicate with the public; reasonable standard of fitness; own transport advantage. IV early March. Both: BUT Interview may incl overnight stay. PAY Free accom in wooden cabin by loch side. Expenses for use of own vehicle on Trust business. ASK Chat: Rab 07920 468568 Apply: Volunteer Applications, Rab Potter, Reserve Manager North East, Gardeners Cottage, Balhary Estate, Alyth, Perthshire PH11 8LT rpotter@swt.org.uk

The revamped National Spring Clean website has gone LIVE - launching a major recruitment campaign for 2011. The campaign boundaries have been extended to two months: all registered litter picks Mon 14 March – Mon 15 May 2011 count towards the campaign. For more information, and to register, please see www.keepscotlandtidy.org/springclean.

Finlaystone Country Estate is a heavily visited property overlooking the Firth of Clyde and we are looking for volunteers to assist with the 140 acres of woodlands & 10 acres of formal gardens. Check out the website @ www.finlaystone.co.uk or email the Head Ranger @ info@finlaystone.co.uk for further information.

DES The Trust’s North East Ranger Service operates from Crathes Castle & provides both stewardship for the wildlife & flora of the estates in the North East as well as providing educational, access & recreation opportunities for visitors. We are looking for a full-time volunteer to assist with leading educational groups, biological recording, & practical conservation work & estate maintenance. This position starts in March for 6 months. BUT Self-motivated, able to work independently as well as with a diverse range of people &, moreover, enthusiastic. Driving licence. Disclosure Scotland checked. ASK Fiona Milne, Senior Ranger, Crathes Castle, Banchory, Aberdeenshire AB31 5EY fmilne@nts.org.uk

DES We are looking for vols to take part in our Green Days Out programme. Join us for a day at a time carrying out vital conservation work in the Scottish Highlands – incl tree planting, nursery work, aspen root collection & more. Pick ups are available from Findhorn, Forres & Inverness. Trees for Life provide all tools & equipment – just bring plenty of warm layers, waterproofs & enough food & drink for the day. BUT No experience is necessary, but vols should have a reasonable level of fitness & be 18+. ASK Rosie, 01309 691444 rosie@treesforlife.org.uk

PAY Reasonable travel expenses. Training opportunities available FOR BTCV SCOTLAND

DES Wednesday mornings. Green Gyms help people of all ages to be physically active & mentally well by offering the opportunity to ‘work out’ in the open air, through local, practical env work. We are looking for vols to join the Green Gym at Cambo – the project is developing a community woodland into an enjoyable & wildlife friendly space for the local community of Cambo & Kingsbarns. We will be laying woodchip paths, clearing dead elm, planting native trees, building bird boxes & much more. BUT No experience required – just an enthusiasm for the outdoors & a willingness to get your hands dirty! ASK BTCV Fife office, 01592 861555 gg-fife@btcv.org.uk

DES To assist with the day to day running of the visitor operations at Mersehead – ensuring that all our visitors have the best possible experience of nature through a warm, informative welcome, interpretation of the reserve & a programme of events. To manage the daily running of the Visitor Centre incl customer care, membership recruitment & stock control. Also to assist in setting up & running a number of offsite promotional activities throughout the season. This role will provide training & all-round experience for a future career in conservation. BUT Good people & communication skills, sales skills & an approachable personality essential, as is ability to work as part of a small team. Specialist knowledge is not essential, but enthusiasm for wildlife & an interest in nature conservation is. A driving licence is also essential as this role will involve offsite activities using the reserve vehicle. ASK Becky Jones, 07747 455232 www.rspb.org.uk/residentialvolunteering

Bolton Conservation Volunteers have worked since 1976. We meet every second Sunday throughout the year to carry out practical conservation management work. We have worked with local authorities, The Wildlife Trust, local landowners, and other community groups. Please visit our website at www.boltonconservation.org.uk

The National Trust has a variety of roles in wardening, footpath work, conservation and learning projects across various places in the North West. Help us to care for some of Britain’s most stunning and vulnerable landscapes. To find out more, please contact nw.volunteering@nationaltrust.org.uk or tel 0161 9254345

DES You will regularly walk or cycle lengths of your local waterway to offer a unique & direct service to all customers using the towpaths & waterway to enhance the customer experience. You will carry out tasks such as talking to visitors; leading guided walks; ensuring our information is up to date & reporting problems. * Sefton, Blackburn/Burnley, Bingley, Newlay, Wigan and River to Spring Locks on the Lancaster Canal. BUT Enthusiasm & willingness to help others essential. Desire & drive to make a positive impact in your local community & must be happy working outdoors, both with the public & on your own. A common sense approach & awareness of H&S issues are desirable. The ability to ride a bicycle beneficial although not essential. ASK Short cover letter detailing your motivations & any rel skills & experience to cassie.weaver@britishwaterways.co.ukAn informal ‘meet & greet’ session will be held early March to assess vols suitability.

Tree Nursery Volunteer Officer Native trees, grown from locally collected seed, must be part of our future if we are to conserve biodiversity & protect wildlife. We collect seed from some of the most scenic areas in the British Isles & propagate it at our tree nursery in Kendal. You can do this! Gain experience in plant propagation in polytunnels & outdoor beds, & learn a range of techniques to get seeds to grow. See the trees become bigger, & go out to be planted in local conservation projects. Work with & lead a wide range of interesting people & community groups. Take the initiative for planning & organising tree nursery work. BUT Willingness to get muddy & wet, an inquisitiveness to learn more about species ID & characteristics, inventiveness to create solutions to problems, & a friendly manner to join & lead our team.

Practical Projects Volunteer Officer Providing assistance in some or all of the following: leading vol work parties across the Lake District, maintaining equipment & grounds, tree propagation, setting up projects, administration & IT. Join a keen & experienced vol team, & have a positive influence on the project’s development. Former VOs have progressed to careers in conservation. BUT Willingness to manage groups or projects. Activities are rural & consequently outdoors. Minibus driving useful but not essential. Both: BUT Reliability, self-motivated essential. Min 4 days per week. Preferably 6 month commitment. PAY Training (formal & informal), PPE provided ASK Rachel Miller, r.miller@btcv.org.uk07740 899596 01539 742612.

Conservation Holidays: Volunteer Officer We manage a successful programme of Conservation Holidays throughout Cheshire & Wales, involving a wide range of locations, tasks & vols. Providing a great platform for you to gain practical conservation skills, see new places & meet like-minded people. You will support staff with the delivery of the programme both in terms of leading or co-leading a holiday & also with the development of ideas for future holiday projects. You will also have the opportunity to get involved with other projects & events incl fundraising, ed activity days, publicity & communications etc. BUT Some previous experience, whether practical or educational desirable. Available to lead projects during weekends, 2-5 times per year approx. http://bit.ly/BTCV114

Fundraising Volunteer Officer We are looking to expand our opportunities across the county & need an individual to support our staff within the office in order to apply for external funding for future env projects. You will work alongside the team to source, compile & apply for grants & funding from a range of providers in order to further projects throughout Cheshire. The VO position provides valuable work experience that is nationally recognised by employers in the fields of conservation / env. You will receive guidance, training & support in your role from experienced staff. Commitment: between 1-2 days per week, depending on your availability. BUT Some previous experience in admin work an advantage. Rel IT skills according to the equipment & programmes you will be using is desirable – such as MS Office. http://bit.ly/BTCV113

Practical Conservation Projects: Volunteer Officer To support our Project Leaders with their regular midweek volunteer groups. VOs will work as part of the team assisting in running the programme of conservation tasks across Cheshire, incl Chester, Ellesmere Port, Northwich, Crewe, Halton & Warrington. You will work on a range of practical activities such as hedgelaying, path building, coppicing, scrub clearance, fence building & other hands on conservation work at a variety of sites. Assist in the planning & delivery of projects, whilst receiving training in project management, vol supervision, leading env day tasks & learning new practical skills. You will also have the opportunity to get involved with other projects & events incl fundraising, ed activity days, publicity & communications etc. Commitment: about 2-3 days per week, depending on your availability, for 6 months initially. BUT Some previous experience, whether practical or educational desirable. http://bit.ly/BTCV31

Mill Kitchen Garden Project: Volunteer Officer We co-manage a successful food growing project in Mickle Trafford, Chester. Now in its third year, the Mill Garden is expanding to incl more growing space. The community allotment project is looking to raise its profile with local people & spread the message of ‘growing your own’. The VO will work as part of the Kitchen Garden team & assist the Leaders in running the programme of food growing activities with vol groups, school parties, special needs groups & the dedicated Friends of Trafford Mill Kitchen Garden. You will also have the opportunity to get involved with other projects & events incl fundraising, ed activity days, publicity & communications etc. 4 times a month – every other Thursday & Saturday is the minimum commitment, with room for expansion depending on your availability. BUT Some previous experience, whether practical or educational desirable. All: Reliable, with a genuine interest in conservation & ready to learn. No formal quals required. PAY Reasonable expenses are paid. VOs have access to BTCV’s training programme including Project Leadership, Minibus Driving & First Aid at Work. http://bit.ly/BTCV112 ASK Cheshire@btcv.org.uk or the links above.

DES 6 month placements. To join our People & Wildlife Team as interns to assist with delivering educational activities & practical workshops with visiting primary school children. These activities might include environmental games, craft activities, exploring the various habitats found at the farm, pond dipping or investigating minibeasts. Ideal opportunity to gain work experience to pursue a career in env education or teaching. In return you’ll gain valuable experience of working with children & free access to all of our Natural Know-how training courses. BUT Enjoy working with children, enthusiastic & concerned about the env & enjoy being outdoors. Good inter-personal skills & able to work well within a small team. CRB checked. Ideally willing to commit at least 2 days per week ASK www.cheshirewildlifetrust.co.uk Chat: Jan Shone, 01948 820728.

Finding a part-time conservation volunteer role is a tough nut to crack. In my own modest experience (whilst at University) part-time volunteer jobs that I could fit around working hours and which provided me with transferable skills were somewhat elusive.

The Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) Out of Hours (OOH) service ticks both the fit-around-work box and the transferable-skills box. It also involves saving bat lives, protecting roosts and raising bat awareness. Be prepared though, in doing so it also throws up fresh challenges.

By the end of their time with us volunteers will have extensive knowledge relating to bats and their conservation (bat crime, legal protection afforded them, bat care), they will have also gained invaluable customer service skills (including the ability to counsel frightened callers) and a greater understanding of how charity organisations such as ourselves function.

All of this is done from home and outside of work hours. This is an extremely important service and it would not be possible to run such a service without volunteers. We cannot thank our past Out of Hours Teams and future Out of Hours Teams enough for their generosity.

If you are at all interested in volunteering for this project, or would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact me on 0845 1300 228 or ztubbs@bats.org.uk. Further information can also be found on our website www.bats.org.uk/pages/bat_helpline.html.

Various volunteer opportunities with Durham Wildlife Trust.

Volunteer Taskforce: Come and help the team on a variety of practical conservation tasks. Visitor Centre: Help with the day to day running of our visitor centres. Marketing & membership: Help to raise the profile of Durham Wildlife Trust Email: kmcsweeney@durhamwt.co.uk

BEES - Bradford Environmental Education Service

We run a weekly conservation volunteer group working in the Bradford District most Fridays and occasional other days. Projects include management of our small nature reserve and community orchard and Council wildlife areas. Details can be found on www.bees-ymca.org.uk or ring 01274 513102. No experience necessary.

The National Trust (Wallington) is recruiting volunteers to undertake practical conservation work across its 8,000 hectare estate. Projects will run every Wednesday throughout the year and will involve a whole range of practical work from tree planting and felling through to construction of countryside furniture. No experience necessary. Paul Hewitt, Countryside Manager, paul.hewitt@nationaltrust.org.uk 01670 774320

REF        VOL-DIRECT-OK8                               JOB        PRACTICAL PROJECTS – VOLUNTEER OFFICERS
BE4        N / A                                                  LOC        HUMBER & EAST YORKSHIRE REGION
PAY        0                                                       FOR        BTCV
DES / BUT    You will be involved with co-ordinating & supervising practical projects. This incl working with schools, colleges & community groups as well as regular vols & work experience individuals. The scope of the practical work is very broad & incl such tasks as tree & hedgerow planting as well as small construction projects such as ponds, raised beds & footpaths. Develop practical skills & a knowledge base that can be transferred to other professions as well as formal training courses. Experience all aspects of planning & co-ordinating practical tasks & groups of vols in many different locations throughout the Humber & East Yorkshire region.   ASK   Ian, 01482 620309 i.jakulis@btcv.org.uk

DES 4 days per week, ideally for 6 months or more (we can be flexible about the length of time), starting April 2011. Do you want to work in the env sector, but lack the experience to land your first job? If so, a Volunteer Education Assistant position at West Boldon Lodge could be just the thing. You will spend your time learning to teach children about the world around them, & trying your hand at a variety of practical conservation skills. You will gain excellent work experience that will be valued by employers, develop a whole range of transferable skills, take part in a comprehensive training programme, & best of all join a friendly & supportive team. BUT Some experience of working with young people & plenty of enthusiasm! ASK sarah.donnelly@groundwork.org.uk 0191 5364873

An innovative environmental education project based in South Leeds with a beautiful 9.5 acre site managed for biodiversity and play. Join our monthly Green Team volunteering days and help out in our wildlife gardens for the day – a great way to learn new skills! Find out more at http://www.skeltongrange.org.uk/volunteering/volunteering_events.html

Raffle Sales Volunteer Do you enjoy chatting & engaging with people? We are looking for some volunteers to help increase sales of raffle tickets by engaging with visitors, providing a friendly welcome & promoting the benefits of the raffle & of National Trust membership. You would be part of a wide team of visitor services staff at Hadrian’s Wall helping visitors to have very enjoyable experiences at the property. BUT Friendly & engaging person, happy talking with visitors & customers. Able to manage a cash float of no more than £20 at a time, to use standard system for ticket sales & keep accurate records.

Visitor Services Assistant Do you enjoy engaging with people & providing excellent customer service? We are looking for some volunteers to help with the smooth running of the National Trust shop & café while providing a friendly & helpful service for all visitors & customers. You would be part of a wide team of visitor services staff at Hadrian’s Wall helping visitors to have very enjoyable experiences at the property. BUT Friendly & engaging person who is happy talking with visitors & customers. Any experience of working in a shop useful but not essential.

Ecological Surveyor Do you enjoy working outside, carrying out wildlife surveys? For example biological surveys, National Vegetation classification, mapping, bird census, butterflies, dragonflies, squirrels, ancient trees, dormice. Are you keen to contribute ideas towards achieving the conservation objectives for the property? In this role you would be part of a wide team of countryside staff committed to protecting & promoting wildlife & enabling visitors to have outstanding experiences on the property. BUT Any experience in surveying is useful but not essential. Interest & some knowledge of wildlife useful. Ability to record & handle data accurately. Good interpersonal skills useful as you interact with visitors & answer questions they may have about the work or property.

Visitor Welcome Volunteer Are you excited about Hadrians Wall, the surrounding area & its history? Do you enjoy engaging with people & providing information? We are looking for some enthusiastic volunteers to welcome & assist visitors, providing information & guidance as their first point of contact. In this role you would be part of a wide team of visitor services staff enabling visitors to have outstanding & inspirational experiences at the property by helping them feel comfortable & informed. BUT Friendly & engaging person who is happy talking with visitors & enthusiastic about the property & the area. Confident in working with different visitor groups e.g. coach parties, children, & interested in increasing your knowledge about the history & management of the property.

Countryside Conservation Volunteer Do you enjoy working outside, helping to conserve the countryside & wildlife habitats for people to enjoy? In this role you would be part of a wide team of countryside staff carrying out estate management tasks & enabling visitors to have outstanding experiences on the property. You would be undertaking conservation work with Rangers, e.g. footpaths, fencing, hedgerows, invasive species control, scrub clearance & other tasks as needed. BUT Any experience in these areas useful but not essential. Good interpersonal skills useful as you interact with visitors & answer questions they may have about the work or property. All: Able to reach the office using their own or public transport. PAY Travel expenses will be re-imbursed & training given as needed. ASK Programme Manager, cressida.thompson@nationaltrust.org.uk 01434 344218.

Guided Walk Co-ordinator Effective delivery of a wide ranging walks programme within the parkland & gardens.

Guided Walk Leader To help visitors discover, enjoy & learn about Nostell Priory & Parkland through a variety of interpretive walks, both general & more specialist (history, landscape, wildlife & culture). Both: BUT Required to complete volunteer registration form. PAY Training & travel expenses ASK Michael Warrington, Volunteer Co-ordinator, Nostell Priory, National Trust, Doncaster Road, Wakefield WF4 1QE

DES Do you enjoy creative writing & website design? In this role you will be able to use all your creative ideas to write & edit material for a new website for the Hadrian’s Wall Country Properties. You can also investigate & write up volunteering stories, activities, events; take photos to accompany stories; provide stories & information to National Trust editors regionally & nationally; create an e-newsletter for volunteers & supporters; keep a property blog; respond to enquiries made via the website & blog & much more! BUT Some experience in writing & using a website design interface. Good communication skills as you interact with visitors & supporters. Admin & organisational skills desirable. Volunteers will need to reach the office using their own transport. ASK Programme Manager, cressida.thompson@nationaltrust.org.uk 01434 344218.

DES Join BTCV in York to gain experience in running environmental education projects. Shadow the project officer & support them in the development & delivery of activities & learn about community support & fundraising. Training given in leadership skills, health & safety, first aid & more. BUT CRB check. ASK Rachel Earnshaw, 01904 644300 r.earnshaw@btcv.org.uk

The Tameside Countryside Ranger Service have been running conservation days for many years. We have a large number of volunteers who come out on a regular basis, but we wanted to encourage other people to have a go at our various activities before committing themselves to anything long term.

It is hoped the conservation days will help to encourage people to take a more active role in helping to conserve their local countryside and also highlight how important our countryside is for wildlife and how much biodiversity there is within Tameside’s green spaces. It gives people the opportunity to not only have an active role in improving an area, but also to learn about habitats, wildlife and methods of conservation.

These taster days have proved to be a good way of getting permanent volunteers. David Hollington has been with us for over three years and when asked what first attracted him he said “I initially wanted to give something back to society and make a contribution to the countryside. I was hoping to learn new skills after retiring from an office bound career and be out in the fresh air. I was hooked after my first day and now enjoy the team work, feeling a lot fitter and working in a variety of sites.”

David Cameron might have penned the phrase ‘Big Society’ but the Tameside Countryside Service have been successfully using volunteers for over 30 years.

PAY Team working, training, support & travel expenses FOR SHROPSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

DES We need volunteer help & support with staging our events. Help with preparing & setting up for the event which entails erecting gazebos, setting out tables, chairs, signage & also taking down at the end. In addition we are looking for volunteers to help us on the day with welcoming people, directing them, serving refreshments & gathering information for evaluation purposes. BUT For the event management team, physically fit & healthy as the work is quite demanding & strenuous. For the welcome team, friendly & outgoing, confident & happy to engage with people. You don’t need to know much about wildlife for either. Events take place during the week & at weekends. ASK / Chat Diane Monether Volunteer Co-ordinator, 01743 284296 dianem@shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

DES Assist us in protecting a nationally recognised wetland habitat, managing scrub & grassland at the Flits NNR. Your work will also help to enhance & restore one of the most important, historic seer-parks in England at Moccas Park NNR. Tasks take place on the 3rd Sunday of every month, throughout the year. BUT Should be keen to learn new skills, meet new people & have an interest in protecting & enhancing the fabulous Herefordshire cside. No specific knowledge is required as all training will be provided. Prior knowledge or experience of nature reserve management could be beneficial. Vols should be prepared for physical work, on occasionally difficult terrain. ASK Lewis.Goldwater@naturalengland.org.uk 0300 0602903 to discuss opportunities, meeting times & locations for tasks.

DES We run a Bug Zoo & Gift Shop at Hatton Country World, as well as breeding of invertebrates, going into schools delivering env ed & run our own activities throughout holiday periods. Assist in shop, help with the invertebrate rearing programme & deliver some of the env activities. Some of this work will involve working with young children as well as older people. More info www.naturalworldexperience.com BUT No specific quals required but applicants must have knowledge of the natural world, be prepared to work & handle various invertebrates, reptiles & amphibians. Must be able to communicate with both very young & older people. Outgoing & prepared to work in all weathers. ASK Paul Taylor 07811 403713 info@naturalworldexperience.com or in person at the Hatton Bug Zoo & Gift Shop (Sats & Suns only)

BE4 N/A ongoing LOC Fenn’s, Whixall & Bettisfield Mosses NNR, & NNR Base (N Shropshire)

DES Great opportunity to assist with the restoration of part of Britain’s 3rd largest lowland raised peat bog. The NNR is 635ha & straddles the English / Welsh border, 4 miles from Whitchurch, Shropshire & 10 miles from Wrexham. Role is varied & can incl practical estate & habitat management tasks, surveying / monitoring, assisting with events / guided walks & office projects. Protective clothing provided & in-house training. BUT Suitable for a student looking for a work placement or someone wanting to gain further experience in the conservation sector. Reliable & enthusiastic, keen interest in wildlife & conservation, physically fit & prepared to work outdoors. ASK Peter Bowyer, Reserve Manager, peter.bowyer@naturalengland.org.uk 01948 880362 www.naturalengland.org.uk

Brand new nature reserve & we are just starting to develop our work with young people.

Informal Education Assistant Assist with our provision for informal youth groups (eg Scouts, Brownies, youth groups etc). Assist Informal Education Leaders to deliver onsite & outreach sessions which may involve guided walks or activities such as pond dipping or env games. BUT Need experience of working with young people. Commitment of once+ per month on an evening or at weekends.

Education Assistant Assist education staff with new field teaching programme, involves backing up the teaching staff whilst out in the field & setting up & putting away equipment before & after sessions. Most groups will be secondary school age but working with young people of all ages. Opportunity to be involved in ordering, monitoring & fixing equipment. Part of a new & exciting education programme & have opportunity to inspire young people’s learning on env issues. BUT Need experience with working with teenagers, basic knowledge of ecology, geography & conservation & a lot of enthusiasm. Commitment of 1+ day per month, during term time only. 9am – 5pm. Both: BUT Enthusiastic, enjoy working with young people & like being outside. Able to communicate effectively with young people. Active role & requires degree of fitness. PAY all required training, travel expenses to & from placement ASK Rebecca.Neal@rspb.org.uk 01827 259454

DES Work with Rangers to undertake day to day management of Herefordshire properties; Participate in events such as guided walks, open days & other events; Develop practical cside skills to assist with upkeep & maintenance; Responsibility for security, routine maintenance of vehicles & equipment; Actively engage with & provide info to members of the public; Liaise effectively with NT staff & vols to provide support; Take reasonable care for the H&S of yourself & others who may be affected by your acts or omissions at work. BUT Essential: Good communication skills & the ability to converse with a wide range of people; Delivery of excellent customer care through being friendly, enthusiastic & approachable; A good team player. Desirable: Full driving licence; Good practical cside management skills incl machinery & equipment use & maintenance; Qual to levels CS30, 31 in chainsaw use; PA1 & PA6 in pesticide use; Computerate. ASK Julie Lynch 0121 7537752 wm.volunteering@nationaltrust.org.uk for info, then informal chat following by more formal IV.

Volunteer for Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and make a difference! Whether you are in education, retired, unemployed or working, there is something for you. Volunteers are essential in helping us manage our nature reserves, deliver our education programme, survey our reserves and deliver magazines. Contact Amanda Henshaw on 02476 302912 or at amanda.henshaw@wkwt.org.uk

Opportunities exist for volunteering at unique our Grade 2* listed detached gardens: Hands on work – hedge laying, clearance, plot development; Research – fruit trees, roses, plants general, structures, oral history, gardening and allotment history; Education work with local schools. For more information please see our web site www.staa-allotments.org.uk

DES We are looking for vols to talk to members of the public about urban wildlife & the benefits of supporting RSPB. These projects aim to bring people closer to wildlife on their doorstep. We have three locations: Worcester (Ref: VMS 3939), where peregrines nest in the city; Willen Lake, Milton Keynes (Ref: VMS 5343), where house martins nest on the site; Wollaton Hall near Nottingham (Ref: VMS 4528), where swallows nest on the site. A date with Nature event grows support for the RSPB by raising awareness of who we are & what we do & by signing up new members. Vols will chat with visitors about wildlife & our campaigns, encourage them to sign our visitors book & tell them about the different ways the can support us & help nature. BUT Infectious enthusiasm for wildlife & conservation is a must but you don’t have to be a bird expert. You must be keen to learn more & willing to share your passion with a wide range of people that visit our stand. Excellent people skills, friendly & approachable, having the confidence to initiate conversations about supporting conservation. ASK Quote rel Ref. Sharon.boardman@rspb.org.uk Chat: 01295 676449.

DES We are looking to expand our outreach programme, bringing Top Lodge & its wildlife to the attention of the local community by means of stands in supermarkets, garden centres & similar locations. The opportunity to meet people of different ages, backgrounds & knowledge levels. The chance to work with a friendly dedicated team. We can help you gain skills & give you valuable insight into our work. BUT Good natural history knowledge, a desire to meet people & enthusiasm. Some knowledge of Red Kites would be useful but not essential. Some loading & unloading of vehicles required so reasonable level of fitness. ASK Chris.Andrews@rspb.org.uk or call Chris Directly on 01780 444691.

The RSPB is an exciting conservation charity, the largest in Europe! We can help you gain skills & give you a valuable insight into our work.

Health Walk Leaders Learn more about this beautiful reserve & enjoy the great outdoors, with the opportunity to meet people of different ages, backgrounds & knowledge levels. We would like you to lead weekly guided health walks around the reserve & to ensure all attendees enjoy themselves. BUT Desire to help people improve their health & knowledge of wildlife. Enthusiasm & a reasonable level of fitness. Outgoing personality & good communication skills important & some knowledge of wildlife a bonus. We ask for a minimum commitment of 1 Friday morning a month, or more if desired. ASK Lee.Copplestone@rspb.org.uk 0121 3577395

Guide in the Hide Opportunity to be the public face of the RSPB on one of our reserves & to be an essential part of our team. Help welcome visitors into our wildlife hide & give them a great visitor experience. You will show people birds from the hide, provide information about birds & wildlife, encourage them to support the RSPB & ensure the hide remains a safe & clean environment for visitors. BUT Good with people & enthusiastic about our work for RSPB. Some natural history / conservation knowledge an advantage. Familiarity with customer care an advantage, but not essential. The time you commit to this role is flexible but 1 or 2 hours per week would be ideal. PAY All required training. Travel expenses to & from your placement ASK Chris.Edwards@rspb.org.uk 01213 577395.

PAY Travel expenses & training FOR HABITAT BIODIVERSITY AUDIT (Warwickshire Wildlife Trust)

DES The main duties involve assisting the Wildlife Site Project Surveyor with admin work, incl preparing letters & information packs to be sent out to landowners, filing & photocopying of site information, assisting in maintaining databases or spreadsheets, producing maps using GIS MapInfo & entering species data into excel. When surveying begins in May there is the opportunity to assist in conducting both Phase 1 & Phase 2 surveys & gain or improve on botanical identification. Training opportunities in field survey techniques, plant identification & some GIS training. BUT Good IT skills, with experience in MS Word & Excel. Any experience of MS Access or GIS software an advantage but not essential. Good organisational & communication skills essential. ASK / Chat Sarah Shuttleworth or Chris Talbot, 01926 412197 sarahshuttleworth@Warwickshire.gov.uk

CAZLAG Ranger, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust

This exciting new initiative through European funding aims to improve Lincolnshire’s coastal reserves. We seek volunteers to help with habitat management, natural history surveys, interpretation and events. A great opportunity to gain field experience or to help the environment. Please contact Dave Miller on 07919 326646 or email dmiller@lincstrust.co.uk

What did you do to support Bird Atlas 2007-11, or what can you do? The fourth winter of fieldwork comes to an end on 28 February and the last breeding survey runs from 1 April to 31 July. That means that there is still time to input any bird records in your field notebook, to look out for nests, or to take a summer evening stroll and listen out for owls, Woodcock, Quail and Grasshopper Warblers.

I can just about say that I was involved in the first BTO breeding Atlas; I was a school-boy birdwatcher when it came to a close in 1972 and the changes to our bird populations feel personal to me. Breeding Atlas number two (1988-1991) provided a real jolt to the ornithological establishment, when the extent of the disappearance of many of our farmland birds became clear. Not only were scarcer birds such as Grey Partridge and Corn Bunting hard to find, previously wide-spread species such as Yellowhammer were missing from large areas of the country. The results of this Atlas set much of the conservation research agenda in the UK in the next ten years which, in turn, informed decision makers responsible for creating the farmland stewardship grant schemes. Data do really make a difference.

This latest Atlas is already posing many questions. Where have woodland specialists gone? Why have so many Willow Warblers disappeared from the southern third of the UK over the last twenty years? Are changing grazing regimes in Wales responsible for major losses of birds that feed on soil invertebrates? By the time we finish, there will no doubt be many more. It is not all doom and gloom, of course, with range expansions for the previously-persecuted Buzzard, the arrival of waves of Little Egrets and expansion northwards of species such as Nuthatch, that are constrained by winter temperatures.

Although the Atlas is a huge project, it is only one of the surveys that the BTO organises. Others see birdwatchers scanning flocks of birds on estuaries, counting nests in traditional heronries, learning how to ring birds, searching out nests and monitoring the success of nesting attempts, identifying and counting birds along rivers and canals, or simply undertaking a weekly survey of birds in gardens.

Breeding season map for Yellowhammer from the 1968-72 Atlas (left) and results so far for 2007-11

The Atlas is all about distributions – local extinctions, new hot-spots, northerly spread associated with climate change etc. – but there are parallel surveys that monitor population levels, the most important of which is the BTO/RSPB/JNCC Breeding Bird Survey. Annually, 3000 or more volunteers take responsibility for BBS squares, representative 1 km OS grid-squares spread across the whole of the UK. In three visits, one to map the habitats and two to register every bird they see or hear, they collect data that will allow comparisons of numbers of every species to those in previous years, at national and regional scales. This summer, most will expect to encounter fewer individuals of species that are susceptible to cold weather; small birds such as Goldcrests and others that have high-octane lives, like birds of prey. These data feed into wild bird indicators, a set of national government statistics that provide indicators of the health of the environment in which birds – and we – live.

If you want to get involved in BTO surveys – or just want a chance to try – there are several ways to start. Your Regional Representative may be able to put you in touch with a local mentor – another volunteer who can take you out on your first survey (http://www.bto.org/regional-network), and there are training courses too (http://www.bto.org/news-events/training). Some surveys require knowledge of bird song, which takes a bit of learning, but you can support Bird Atlas 2007-11, the biggest ever national stock-take of our birds, by just reporting any bird you see, anywhere, this summer.

DES As the need for money to make our essential conservation work possible gets more important, we need to bring in people who can help us with it. By growing our network of vols, we can raise hundreds of thousands of pounds & we are looking for a volunteer to assist with managing the volunteer team. Our Community Fundraising Team generates income by recruiting & managing fundraising volunteers, raising awareness of the RSPB to local community groups, & engaging with people at local events. BUT Experience of working with vols, or as a vol; can work well as part of a team; good communication skills, both written & in real life; good at planning your own time & using your initiative; can motivate others; good with MS Outlook, Word & Excel; interest in fundraising; interest in or keen to learn about conservation; happy to travel. ASK Cara Gibney at Belfast 02890 491547 cara.gibney@rspb.org.uk www.rspb.org.uk

DES Rathlin Island has the largest seabird breeding colony in Northern Ireland. The Seabird Centre welcomes 10,000 visitors during the summer, all eager to see puffins & cliffs packed with guillemots. Vols assist us in presenting this spectacle, raising awareness of the difficulties now being faced by the colony (as changes in the marine env threaten their breeding success) & in providing opportunities for our visitors to support the work of the RSPB. BUT Enthusiasm, ability to work on both your own initiative & as part of a team, interest in conservation. As the location is outdoors, at a cliff-side lighthouse, you must have a head for heights & ability to walk long distances & negotiate many steep steps. Friendly, relaxed & able to engage with visitors. Specialist bird knowledge is not required. ASK http://www.rspb.org.uk/volunteering/residential.aspx

Volunteers are notoriously modest about their efforts, often preferring to “get on with it” with minimum fuss. BTCV believes the hard work of these unsung heroes really should be recognised properly, which is why we began running our annual Green Heroes awards.

As the UK’s leading environmental charity and social enterprise group, BTCV works with over 628,000 people every year to help them improve the places where they live, develop their skills and get more physically active. Whilst we would struggle to thank each of our volunteers individually, we can help to highlight their fantastic work through our Green Heroes awards.

We ask for nominations in a variety of categories, from the straightforward Volunteer of the Year to the Carbon Army Challenge Award for the individual or group who has had the biggest impact on climate change. The best candidates in each region are picked and named regional winners. These are then put forward for the national competition, with the winners being chosen by a judging panel. The overall winners are then presented with their awards at a London ceremony in autumn each year.

Matthew, who has battled bullying, depression and Asperger’s syndrome, was a shy, introverted teenager when he joined BTCV seven years ago. Through his continued efforts at volunteering with BTCV, Matthew is now a confident and able young man who inspires his fellow volunteers.

Led by his interest in conservation, Matthew has now clocked up an impressive list of qualifications covering everything from leadership to handling power tools. After studying a foundation degree course in Cornwall, Matthew found a full time job with the National Trust but he still finds time to volunteer with BTCV.

BTCV Project Manager Rachel Miller, who nominated Matthew for the award, said: “The changes in Matthew’s life have been so great. When he was younger he was very introverted. Now he is bubbly, enthusiastic, and eager to tell others about the difference that BTCV has made to his life.”

Perhaps our volunteers don’t think they’re doing anything special. But hopefully our Green Heroes Awards help to show that the work they do really is remarkable. If you’d like to find out more and get involved with BTCV, we’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re looking for experience and skills to help get a job, want to get fitter and healthier or have a passion for improving the environment, we can find something to suit. Who knows? Maybe you could be our next Green Hero.

CAT is dedicated to informing, inspiring and enabling in the field of sustainability through a diverse range of activities. Long Term Volunteers come every March and September to work full time for 6 months in various departments across CAT. www.cat.org.uk/volunteers 01654 705955

The Snowdonia Society runs conservation tasks throughout the year to help maintain the natural beauty of Snowdonia, working in partnership with other organisations and community groups. Volunteering work varies from upland footpath maintenance to beach cleaning, clearance of invasive species and more. Contact jenny@snowdonia-society.org.uk or 01286 685498. Website: www.snowdonia-society.org.uk

Moelyci Environmental Centre is owned by the community and manages 350 acres of land near Bangor, Gwynedd. A wide range of volunteering opportunities are offered, with particular emphasis on nature conservation, growing fruit and veg, and green-waste composting. Contact Volunteer Co-ordinator Alan Patterson: volunteer@moelyci.org 01248 602793 www.moelyci.org

The Countryside Department at Erddig are looking for hardworking enthusiastic volunteers to assist them with the management of the 514 hectare estate. If you have an interest in being outdoors, conservation and countryside management then contact Laurel Chalk on 01978 315179 or laurel.chalk@nationaltrust.org.uk for more information.

DES Carry out a wide range of tasks around Stackpole estate including welcoming & advising visitors, selling membership & raffle tickets, helping to organise & co-ordinate events. May entail some car parking. Some weekend & evening work required. *Volunteer card upon completion of 40 hrs entitles you to free entry. BUT Good communication skills & an interest in wildlife & historical places. Some experience in retail an advantage. Must enjoy working outside. Driving licence an advantage. ASK Chris Oliver, Head Ranger, 01646 661639.

DES Supervise vols during their activities across Snowdonia & Llŷn in order to maximise their potential to contribute to the maintenance of coast & cside properties & to enable them to obtain maximum educational & personal benefit from their involvement. ASK Application pack Alison Ellis 01766 510129 alison.ellis@nationaltrust.org.uk

National Trust, Mid & SE Wales - The Adventure Starts Here!

Help us care for some of the finest landscapes and intriguing historic buildings in South Wales From Room Steward to Meet & Greet Warden From Handy-Person to full-time roles in access & conservation Share your experience, share your passion! Contact:

joe.daggett@nationaltrust.org.uk

DES For the 2011 season, 1/4/11 – 1/11/11 for 6 separate 4 week blocks & 1 block of 6 weeks. Up to 8 hours a day, 6 days a week. Volunteers living locally available on a part time basis welcome year round. Responsibilities / duties incl: visitor centre operation, incl dealing with enquiries & taking boat bookings; land & boat based surveys; data entry & checking; updating sightings information; beach cleans; educational activities with children & the general public. BUT Essential skills: interest in wildlife & conservation; reliable, conscientious & mature attitude; ability to work as part of a small team; self-motivated with ability to work unsupervised; adaptable & patient (particularly as boat work is weather dependent); confident in dealing with the public both face to face & over the phone; fluency in English; willing to ask for help if unsure & admit mistakes. ASK Laura, volunteer@cbmwc.org 01545 560032. Download app form from: www.cbmwc.org/volunteer/become_vol.asp & send to volunteer@cbmwc.org

DES 6 to 12 month placement. Come & work with our Wardening team on a mixture of habitats carrying out tasks such as fencing, gate hanging, stock gathering, winter scrub clearance & monitoring. We are leaders in heathland management & conservation grazing in Pembrokeshire, & you will gain valuable experience of both. Also help visitors to enjoy our beautiful Pembrokeshire coast & cside by assisting with engagement work. Great chance to gain the practical skills & experience required by employers in the sector with the opportunity of certified training that may incl the use of brushcutters, First Aid etc. BUT Able to work outdoors in most weather conditions. Reasonably fit & mobile to work on generally rough & wet terrain. Full driving licence essential & own transport useful as public transport is infrequent. Able to work alone & enjoy working in a team with staff & other vols. ASK Nicky Middleton-Jones, 01348 837860 Nicky.MiddletonJones@nationaltrust.org.uk

DES We work in partnership with other orgs to maintain & conserve this stunning area for all to enjoy. We are keen to offer practical experience in tool use & land management techniques to people wishing to work in the env sector. These 3 month placements will provide vols with: opportunities to make contacts with conservation professionals; hands-on experience on at least 4 conservation workdays ranging from footpath maintenance to invasive species control; a report & reference from the Snowdonia Society outlining tasks completed & skills gained; experience of working with groups of vols & the opportunity to take on a more supervisory role where appropriate; an understanding of working in the field of conservation. BUT No experience necessary, but a willingness to learn & a practical approach to work would be an advantage. Able to travel to a number of locations around Snowdonia, most are accessible by public transport. ASK jenny@Snowdonia-society.org.uk with CV & covering letter.

DES The Wildlife Trust at Paxton Pits has been working in partnership with the Huntingdonshire District Council Health Walk schemes to provide Health Walks with a difference, focusing on a different aspect of wildlife around Paxton Pits Nature Reserve. We are looking for vols to take on the role of managing & delivering these Health Walks, by organising the themes, liaising with the Council Health Walks representative, researching & setting up the walk information packs, & being present on the walks to help with identification & information for the walkers. BUT Sense of responsibility & discipline, strong communication skills, sound judgement & a mature pragmatic & flexible approach. Knowledge of local wildlife desirable, but a willingness to learn is a must. ASK Kate Bygrave, 01480 473161 kate.bygrave@wildlifebcnp.org

DES The Workout Project provides practical conservation work opportunities for people across North Norfolk District. As well as vols to work on the practical tasks, we are looking for someone to help with admin & promotion of the project (esp people with physical, sensory or learning difficulties, mental health or long-term medical conditions). Your work would incl marketing, data entry, making contact with other 3rd sector groups & health professionals, answering enquiries & anything else we can think of to keep the project running & boost recruitment of vols. BUT Confident at speaking to a wide range of audiences, computerate (MS Word, Excel, email) & prepared to have a CRB check as you will be handling personal information. ASK Mark Webster, Countryside Section, North Norfolk District Council, Holt Road, Cromer NR27 9EN 01263 516336 workout@btcv.org.uk

DES Help run network of children's wildlife clubs. Wildlife Watch Groups are the junior branch of the Wildlife Trusts & normally run once a month for 2 hours, often on a Sat morning. They are aimed at 6-12 year olds. BUT An enthusiasm to work with children & teach them about wildlife & conservation is all that's needed. ASK Wildlife Watch Organiser Martha Meek on 01473 892433 or martha.meek@suffolkwildlifetrust.org for more details www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org

DES Mid May – mid Oct/Nov, 5/6 months, 3+ days per week. Turtle Doves are declining rapidly in the UK and we are currently testing a potential new agri-environment option aimed at providing food for the birds when they return from Africa in spring. We have 6 farms with trail seed plots, & 6 control farms with no seed plots. We aim to radio-tag up to 30 Turtle Doves during June and need assistants to help us collect as much information as we can. Ideal opportunity for a recent graduate looking for fieldwork experience. * Training in radio-tracking & experience of whoosh netting, handling & fitting radio-tags to Turtle Doves. Gain experience in collecting field data and there are opportunities to be involved in analysis & writing up of data & potentially in co-authoring of a publication in a peer-reviewed journal. BUT Required: Good basic knowledge of British wildlife, habitats & conservation priorities; capable of keeping accurate & legible records; ability to undertake demanding fieldwork (long hours / poor weather) & willingness to work unsociable hours; ability to work under own initiative; good observational & map reading skills & experience of using a compass; able to travel without public transport; self motivated & able to manage own workload. Advantage: previous bird fieldwork experience; farmland work & liaising with landowners; bird handling & nest finding experience; plant ID skills. ASK Jenny Dunn jenny.dunn@rspb.org.uk 01767 693592

Norfolk National Trust Volunteers carry out practical outdoor conservation work at weekends, on properties and land owned by the National Trust within Norfolk. Volunteers don't have to be super fit, just prepared to give it a go. New members are always welcome. Email: membership@norfolkntv.co.uk Web: www.norfolkntv.co.uk

Norfolk Wildlife Trust rely on volunteers to help us protect Norfolk's wildlife for the future. Whether you are looking to use your skills, change your career, stay active or simply get closer to nature we would like to hear from you. For current volunteering opportunities visit our website www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk or contact Jo Prendergast on 01603 625540.

DES Volunteers needed to come out & work on green spaces in & around Norwich. Work includes: tree felling, hedge laying, scrub clearance. No previous experience necessary as training is provided on the day. BUT Anyone who is reasonably fit & enjoys working outdoors. ASK Please call our officer on 01603 767300 or email d.murray@btcv.org.uk

DES To assist the Warden & Assistant Warden with the management of NWT Cley Marshes for the benefit of wildlife & visitors. Habitat management, reserve maintenance, monitoring car parks & hides for litter & any problems, monitoring leaflets & notices in bird hides, Visitor Centre external maintenance incl grass & maintenance of the wildlife garden. BUT Need to be physically fit with an interest in & enthusiasm for wildlife. Team worker with initiative & ability to follow instructions & adhere to H&S procedures. Good communication skills. Reliable & hardworking. ASK http://bit.ly/NorfolkWT or contact Jo Prendergast on 01603 625540.

BE4 25/2/11 LOC NWT Ranworth & Hickling Broads, NWT Cley Marshes & NWT Holme Dunes

DES To support the NWT Education team in the delivery of school visits as part of our outdoor learning programme. This may incl welcoming groups to the nature reserves, helping to set up resources needed for the delivery of sessions, delivering sessions on nature reserves to visiting schools incl habitat trails, dykedipping & env games. You will also help raise awareness about the work of Norfolk Wildlife Trust. BUT Excellent communication skills with ability to communicate with a range of age groups & abilities. Knowledge of local wildlife & an interest in the work of NWT. ASK http://bit.ly/NorfolkWT or contact us on 01603 625540.

DES Attending events across Norfolk to help promote the work of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust &raise awareness about wildlife & the env. You may be involved with running wildlife activities, helping with craft activities, promoting events & giving out information to the public. BUT Excellent communication skills & able to communicate with a wide range of audiences. Some knowledge of wildlife & the local area an advantage. Able to work in a team in a fast paced role. ASK http://bit.ly/NorfolkWT If you have any queries contact Jo Prendergast on 01603 625540.

DES We need an excellent all-round person, who wants to experience working in a large team, on one of the RSPB’s flagship nature reserves. This is a varied & challenging vol role experiencing env tourism & visitor services. You’ll be helping with the planning, delivery, promotion & evaluation of the reserve’s busy events programme & people engagement operation. You’ll be working with the media & other stakeholders as well as supervising other vols. BUT Excellent people & communication skills with approachable personality essential. Ability to work alone & in a team. Specialist knowledge not necessary, but enthusiasm for wildlife & an interest to learn more is. Ability to: actively listen to others, use your initiative, think & work creatively. Computer literate, organised, with attention to details. 18 years old or over, available for 6 months or more & have achieved A-levels or equiv. ASK Information pack & app form: Louise Gregory, Minsmere Volunteer Development Officer, louise.Gregory@rspb.org.uk 01728 648083.

BE4 11/3/11 LOC NWT Ranwoorth & Hickling Broads, NWT Weeting Heath & NWT Holme Dunes

DES To assist the Centre Co-ordinator / Warden with all day to day visitor centre activities & take responsibility for ensuring all visitors are welcomed & given any information they require about the reserves & the work of NWT. Provide an enthusiastic & warm welcome to all visitors, providing information, promoting NWT memberships & quiz trails, stock checking, pricing & merchandising, dealing with sales transactions incl till operation, & ensuring the Visitor Centre is clean & welcoming at all times. BUT Excellent communication & people skills, love / knowledge of wildlife & wild places, numerate & able to use cash register (training will be provided) & be a reliable time keeper. ASK http://bit.ly/NorfolkWT info@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk

Minsmere Audience & Activities Analysis Officer We need someone with experience in, or wanting to gain experience in market research to assist us with the evaluation of our new & existing people engagement activities. Key aspects of work: analyse, interpret & form an action plan of outcomes from the visitor survey programme & quality assurance assessments. Identify & implement appropriate evaluation techniques for the Minsmere team to use, to interpret the effectiveness of new & existing events & activities. Identify the key components of our audiences & make recommendations for the reserve’s development plan. Excellent opportunity to work in a different but exciting env, to develop & enhance your personal competencies. You will have the opportunity to develop skills, such as planning, team working & leadership, with support from RSPB staff. BUT Experience or knowledge of market research techniques. Good communication & presentation skills. Previous experience in tourism or visitor behaviour desirable. Interest in wildlife conservation & interpretative methods useful, but not essential.

Are you the face of nature? Do you have an inspirational smile? Are you passionate about wildlife conservation? Do you love chatting to people? If yes to any of these; you could be the face of nature. Over 99,000 people visit Minsmere nature reserve each year & your face will be the one that they are most likely to remember. You will be the first person that visitors see & speak to about the reserve, the work of the RSPB & how they can support it. You’ll be there to ask ‘What did you see?’ & say goodbye at the end of the day. BUT Excellent people, communication & listening skills with an approachable personality essential. Ability to work on your own & as part of a team. Specialist knowledge not necessary, but an enthusiasm for wildlife & an iterest to learn more is. Both: PAY Appropriate training & expenses reimbursed. ASK Information pack & app form: Louise Gregory, Minsmere Volunteer Development Officer, louise.gregory@rspb.org.uk 01728 648083.

The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) is a small charity based on the Isle of Mull, dedicated to the conservation of whales, dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans) through our research and education programmes. In 2001 HWDT purchased Silurian, a dedicated research and education vessel. Since then, Silurian, with her crew and volunteers, have travelled tens of thousands of miles, making detailed recordings of encounters with cetaceans, birds, boats and even rubbish!

Every summer season, between May and October, HWDT coordinate a series of cetacean research surveys, usually lasting for 10 days. HWDT surveys are designed to find out more about the distribution, abundance, movements and behaviour of whales, dolphins and porpoises.

If you would like to contribute directly to local marine conservation, please don’t hesitate in contacting Morven Summers on volunteercoordinator@hwdt.org or by phoning 01688 302620.

You can find out more about the volunteer programme and HWDT in general by visiting our website www.hwdt.org

DES England’s largest new native woodland covers 858 acres & will eventually boast 600,000 new trees, a community orchard, miles of paths & rides & an array of wildlife. Work as part of a regular team of vols who will plant trees across the site. This will involve pit or slit planting trees depending on the size of the root ball. It may also involve checking a previously planted area has been planted correctly & gapping up where needed. Work party days will run from 10am – 3pm on different days during the week. This will be a great way for you to gain experience, a great excuse to get outside & keep fit & help us create a new woodland. BUT Outdoor walking & tree planting experience desirable but not essential, all necessary training given. A sensible regard for H&S & the willingness to visit the site in all weathers essential. ASK Louise Neicho, Site Manager louiseneicho@woodlandtrust.org.uk 0845 2935706.

DES Do you care? Are you searching for that ‘something more’? We are an env charity with a unique approach. We work to conserve endangered species & habitats, but unlike other orgs, we put a lot of emphasis on tackling human problems such as greed, selfishness & the ‘me, me, me’ mentality. We train our team to understand how these psychological factors have a huge impact on the success or failure of nature conservation projects. The key to the causes of our env problems, & to any realistic chance of overcoming them, lies in changing the way we think about the world around us. If this deeper approach appeals to you, there is a chance to get involved with our work – which includes nature reserves in Sussex & South Africa. We all purposely work unpaid. This is a real opportunity to help make a difference. BUT No quals or experience required, just the right attitude! ASK www.wildlifeforall.org

DES 2 days a week (although we would consider 1 day or several half days) until the end of June. Love Nature is a fundraising week running 28/5/11 – 5/6/11 when we will be holding street collections & events across the Midlands. We will also be asking people to fundraise at their own events. To help prepare for this exciting week we need an intern to help promote events, recruit new vols & encourage people to fundraise for us. Volunteering in our friendly Banbury office is a fantastic opportunity to gain knowledge of how a large charity works & valuable office experience. BUT Motivated & creative with a passion for fundraising. Able to use MS Word & Excel & have good communication skills. ASK dana.rock@rspb.org.uk or call Dana directly on 01295 676452.

PAY All required training & courses. Travel expenses to & from your placement FOR RSPB

DES An opportunity to join a friendly team, support a charity in your local area, help contribute to the effectiveness of our work, meet new people & gain new skills. We have an increasing amount of admin work & would love your help to run the office more efficiently. Your role in the friendly team would be to help staff & other vols in general admin tasks that are many & varied! BUT Good admin skills. Experience in the use of spreadsheets & databases would be beneficial along with basic knowledge of Word. ASK Brenda.cooknell@rspb.org.uk 01295 676451.

DES Help maintain our stunning country estate gardens & beautiful woodland. This opportunity is suitable for career changers or as an introduction to horticulture. Term: min 9 months & 22.5 hrs (3 days) per week. *Day release at local college to study RHS level 2 Certificate. BUT Over 18 years old. Interest in gardening, horticulture. ASK The Admin Team: 01628 605069 cliveden@nationaltrust.org.uk

DES 6 month vol opportunity (Apr – Sept 2011; 3+ days per week) working as part of a small Ranger Team to help manage, maintain & enhance visitors, improving the quality of the site for both people & wildlife. Duties would incl a range of practical landscape / habitat management tasks, site monitoring, patrolling, working with vols & could incl running guided walks, working with school groups & assisting with events (incl our 2-day Woodworks festival). All essential training, tools & equipment provided, with up to 3 rel training courses. Ideal opportunity to gain first-hand practical & professional experience in conservation & countryside management. BUT Broad knowledge of conservation & cside management; clear passion for the env & understanding of balancing the needs of people & wildlife. Practical conservation experience an advantage. Enthusiasm for outdoor working is key, along with flexibility, reliability & ability to work independently & in a team. ASK www.marstonvale.org/forestteam/vacancies.html

DES To explain & interpret the exciting spectacle of nesting herons & other interesting wildlife at our Date with Nature event, which aims to bring people closer to the wildlife on their doorstep, providing an enjoyable experience for all visitors & growing support for the charity by raising RSPB’s profile locally & recruiting new members. Help us by meeting & greeting visitors, showing them how to use telescopes & binoculars to view the heronry, explaining what people are seeing & enthusing them about RSPB’s conservation work. Working in a friendly, dynamic team, you will gain invaluable skills, work experience & an insight into the work of the RSPB. BUT Infectious enthusiasm about wildlife & conservation. You don’t have to be a bird expert, but must be keen to learn more & share your passion about the natural world with a wide range of people. ASK Ref: 5352. Rebecca Ingham, 01603 660066 rebecca.ingham@rspb.org.uk

DES / BUT Volunteers for any of the following positions would be warmly welcomed: Assisting with general gardening duties at the Pines Garden, St Margaret’s Bay – some experience & knowledge of plants would be useful. Please note The Pines Garden is organically managed. Assisting with general gardening duties in the grounds of Rippledown House, near Deal. This is an env education centre with visiting school groups throughout the year so full CRB check will be required. Assisting with general office duties at either Rippledown or the Pines Garden – for which office experience & / or some experience of using MS Office would be helpful. ASK / Chat Louise Kjaetinge, General Manager, louise@pinescalyx.co.uk 01034 851737.

DES To provide office based support to the Grants & Business Development Officer. Tasks incl filing, internet research, data entry. A weekly commitment would be preferred – Wednesday & / or Thursdays. BUT Some previous experience of office work. Use of databases & spreadsheets. Professional approach. Attention to detail. Experience of working with people & orgs of differing interests & backgrounds preferred. ASK Please email CV to markanscombe@sussexwt.org.uk or for more information call Mark on 01273 497522.

DES Stepney City Farm is looking to build a team of enthusiastic Education Volunteers interested in getting involved in our varied work with Schools & Youth Groups during Spring & Summer 2011. Potential tasks & activities incl: guiding Schools & Youth Groups around the farm; running sessions with classes in Schools; handling small animals with Children & Young People; presenting educational information about the animals; running workshops relating to growing edible plants. *relating to animal care & gardening. Potential external training opportunities related to working with animals, gardening & working with young people. BUT No experience necessary, just a keen interest in working with young people, animals & gardening! ASK Please contact Cat via youth@stepneycityfarm.org or call 020 77908204 on Weds, Thurs & Sundays.

PAY Basic training in woodland management, dead-hedging, tool use FOR WILDWOOD TRUST

DES Wildwood is set in many acres of ancient woodland, & needs your help in keeping this in top condition, as well as helping us construct & maintain animal enclosures. We have collaborated with the charity Mind to enable people who are mental health service users the opportunity to volunteer at Wildwood & learn new practical skills in our wonderful woodland surroundings. You will help in keeping the Wildwood grounds & facilities in excellent working order, help in the construction of new animal enclosures, help our keeper team develop better conditions for our animals. Skills will incl: pathway construction; waste minimisation; groundworks & building; rainwater collection & distribution system; woodland management incl coppicing. Spaces available 10am to 2pm Mon to Fri. BUT No quals needed. Reasonably fit / mobile, for people suffering mental distress only. ASK Chat / app form: Volunteer Co-ordinator, 01227 712111.

DES To undertake survey work in 2011. This is initially a vol position, with the intention of becoming a paid position (depending on funding). Survey work will be focusing on water vole surveys. There is also potential of other survey work on an ad hoc basis. The survey work on water voles will begin in mid-April 2011. Hours are to be negotiated (full time/part time). BUT Essential: Current bat licence (Survey/monitoring, Roost Visitor, etc); Knowledge of water vole ecology & field signs; Ability to work on own initiative; Ability to work unsupervised & as part of a team; Ability to meet tight deadlines & work under pressure; High regard for Health & Safety, Equal Opportunities & Data Protection. Desirable: Ability to write reports; Ability to manage own workload. ASK Apply with CV to: Sussex Ecology, 49 – 51 East Road, Old Street, London N1 6AH

Hampshire Conservation Volunteers are out most weekends, working on a wide variety of sites which are valuable for wildlife. Please visit www.hcv.org.uk for full details.

Would you consider becoming a volunteer at Waddesdon Manor? There are a variety of roles to fill including Room Wardens, Raffle Ticket Sellers, Land Train Drivers, Aviary Assistants, Gardeners, Garden Guides and positions in the Collection & Catering Departments. Various other roles available throughout the year. Liz Wilkinson 01296 653307 Liz.wilkinson@nationaltrust.org.uk

The National Trust are looking for volunteers in the Hastings to Tenetrden area for a woodland

regeneration and education project near Fairlight. Activities include coppicing, green woodwork, charcoal making, wildlife monitoring, woodland glade and ride creation and pond creation. Please contact: Dave Lewis 07778 170452 / kelly.payne@nationaltrust.org.uk

If you want to get more active, discover your local countryside & meet new people why not try leading Health Walks (short, regular, free walks that take place across Hertfordshire)? For more information please visit our website www.hertslink.org/cms/healthwalks , email healthwalks.cms@hertscc.gov.uk or call 01462 459395.

Garden Guides A good opportunity to meet other garden & walking enthusiasts. Involves being a guide for a walk of the Manor Gardens, which take place every Wed – Sun & Bank Holiday Mon at 11.30 for 30 – 45 mins. We have a Manor, Sculpture or Water Garden walk depending on the day. Regular meetings are held for updates, general briefings & training. Also the opportunity to take bookings on private walks.

Weekday or Sunday Gardeners Assist the garden team in a wide range of day to day tasks. Tasks incl weeding, planting out bedding, deadheading, pruning, re-potting, edging & assisting the project team in all aspects of gardening tasks. Weekday Vols meet in the Garden Dept at 8 and work until 4.30 Lunch break for hour at noon, with breaks at 10 & 3. Sunday Vols meet on the first Sunday of the month, 10 till 4 with breaks & hour lunch. BUT A little knowledge of gardening is required & a desire to be out in the open in all weathers.

Full time Garden Volunteers Limited number of opportunities for those with time to spare, between further education & work, as part of a university of college course or between jobs. Although role is mainly for overseas applicants, we welcome all enquiries. Assist the garden team in a wide range of day to day tasks, which may incl maintenance, project work, development or poss assisting with the garden events & interpretation. Expect to undertake following tasks: weeding, planting out bedding, deadheading & assisting the project team in all aspects of gardening tasks. BUT 3+ months commitment with living accom (incl heating) normally 37.5 hours per week, usually 8 – 4.30 weekdays. In addition we would ask that you are prepared to give occasional weekends hours, time in lieu can be taken. Some reimbursement of expenses can be agreed.

Aviary Assistant Role incl feeding, cleaning, food prep, project work, maintenance & a variety of other tasks. Helping with public presentations or recording data on the computer. Work is varied with the discipline required to work with livestock. (weekdays & weekend cover required). Also looking for vols who can give talks (Wed – Fri) on Conservation on the Aviary Collection & answer questions once training is completed. Hours: 8 – 3.30 or half days.

Plant Centre Assistant Produce labels for plants which give hort info to customers, our installed programme will facilitate this but new varieties may entail some research. Day tba. All: PAY 0 ASK Liz Wilkinson 01296 653307 liz.wilkinson@nationaltrust.org.uk

Species Spotter Survey the flora & fauna of the Polesden estate. Training in identity of flora & fauna & surveying techniques where necessary. BUT Keen bird watcher or botanist, or interest in some area of natural world, interest in countryside & / or practical conservation. Must be willing to pass on knowledge to other members of the team.

Estate Volunteer Working on the estate maintaining walks, fences, gates, & working in the woodland clearing scrub, widening tracks, creating glades. Must be willing to work in most weathers & through the year. Can be physically demanding. Training in use of hand tools, health & safety & landrover driving. BUT Nothing specific, gardens at home plus interest in countryside & / or practical conservation. Please note that we are looking for vols to form a Friday Team so would prefer vols who are available from 9am – 4pm every Friday. Both: PAY Training & expenses. NT membership after 50 hours; & cake! ASK Andy Goodwin, Warden, andy.goodwin@nationaltrust.org.uk 01372 452048.

PAY necessary training FOR CHOLDERTON GREEN GYM (Cholderton Charlie’s Rare Breeds Farm Park)

DES Exciting opportunity available. Green Gym improves peoples health by enabling them to take part in activities to improve their local environment. Details: http://choldertongreengym.blogspot.com/ BUT Previous hort & animal handling experience advantage. Team player & will enjoy leading the team when needed. Want to make a difference to the lives of people & env. ASK 01980 629438 choldertonrbf@aol.com

Downlands/Old Surrey Downs Project

Practical conservation volunteers needed to help our countryside management project working in NE Surrey/Sth London. Wide variety of tasks on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Sundays, including hedgelaying, chalk grassland restoration, livestock management, creating/maintaining ponds, making signposts, fencing and surfacing paths. Please contact us on 01883 341140, email downlands@surreycc.gov.uk or visit www.downlands.org.uk.

The 207,000 members of the National Federation of Women’s Institutes hold the environment close

to their hearts. Across England and Wales members are creating a buzz with bee friendly

gardens, taking part in national wildlife surveys and working to protect ancient woodland.

The NFWI plays a unique role in providing women with educational opportunities and the chance

to build new skills, as well as the opportunities to make an impact in their communities, and to influence local, national and world issues. In practice this has meant that our environmental work has been deeply rooted in the organisation’s campaigning, as well as members’ collective desire to take action to protect the environment.

Our environmental work dates back to 1927 when we began lobbying decision-makers about pollution in the seas. A WI resolution adopted in 1954 calling for action on litter led to the formation of the Keep Britain Tidy campaign. Since then environmental resolutions have covered a diverse range of issues from the need to prevent deforestation and protect our wildflowers, to calls for more research into renewable energy sources.

These resolutions are translated into a two-fold campaign approach; pressing for change from decision and policy-makers, while stressing the role of the individual as a change-agent in their community.

Volunteering activity is rooted in the recognition that we all have a role to play in protecting our environment. WI members have taken their own lives as a starting point, acknowledging the importance that seemingly small decisions have in determining the future of our planet and acting as environmental leaders in their communities; taking action as consumers, cascading information and propelling the message out to others in the hope of realising the potential of an informed and active civic society, ready to take responsibility for its own impact on the planet.

Our SOS for Honeybees campaign was launched in 2009, when a mandate was passed to raise awareness of the declining honeybee population and the vital role the honeybees play in the country’s ecosystem and food production. Pushing for honeybees to receive their fair share of funding for insect pollinator research was the central call, underpinned with awareness raising amongst the public and practical steps that members could take at a local level.

Henllan WI in Denbighshire took the campaign right to the heart of their community, with a vision to create a bee-friendly village. After successfully bidding for funding from the Welsh Assembly Government’s Rural Development Plan, the newly-formed village conservation group has held flower planting and gardening sessions with involvement from the whole community, young and old.

Many more WIs have seized the opportunity to turn unused or unwanted land into bee paradises in their communities; securing donated plants and mobilising the whole community to transform once neglected space into something to be proud of.

Our most recent environmental campaign ‘Women and Environmental Leadership: Women Changing the World’ aimed to provide projects that WI members could use to reinvigorate interest within their community in environmental issues.

A partnership with Open Air Laboratories (OPAL), an organisation that aims to inspire a new generation of nature-lovers by getting people to explore, study and protect their local environment, has seen WI members out and about surveying local water and air quality.

OPAL’s surveys allow all ages and abilities to take part, with results helping scientists build up a picture of England’s natural environment. WI members tested water, recorded indicator lichens and got up close to earthworms to build up a picture of the health of the environment on their doorstep.

Work with the Woodland Trust on their ‘MORE Trees MORE Good’ campaign aims to create a UK rich in native woods and trees with WI groups identifying areas of land in their community that might be suitable for trees to be planted, and applying for Trust tree packs to plant there. WI members have also taken part in the Woodland Trust’s WoodWatch project, which aims to empower people to take action to protect the woods and trees that are important in their community.

Of course, much WI volunteering takes place independently, owing its success to the strong roots of WI groups in their local communities, and the characteristic enthusiasm of members to ‘be the change’.

Sheringham WI in Norfolk has been maintaining a prizewinning garden at Sheringham railway station for over 25 years, transforming a space that was previously full of rubbish, brambles and rubble. The dedicated team of volunteers clear litter from the station every day, and are hoping to further expand the garden over the coming months with wildlife boxes and a bee haven.

These are just a few examples of WI community action in recent years. With the advent of the ‘Big Society’ and an increasing drive to localism, as an organisation we understand that the work of volunteers will become even more vital to protecting our environment. While our members are diverse, we are united by this strong belief that we can all make a difference in our own way.

Credit: Ruth Bond is Chair of the National Federation of Women’s Institutes, the largest voluntary women’s organisation in the UK.

DES Fantastic opportunity to be involved in cside management. Placement incl hands on practical work, assisting with the co-ordination & management of local vol group, assisting with events & involvement with other projects as necessary. 6+ months commitment. Training incl brushcutter, first aid & Diploma level 2 in Env Conservation. BUT Ideally recently completed a Cside Management course & looking for experience to enter the Conservation sector. Must be able to act on own initiative, show enthusiasm & interest in the cside & have a practical aptitude. Some experience desirable. No accom available. ASK Chat: Steve 01823 451814 steven.sudworth@nationaltrust.org.uk Apply by CV & letter.

DES We are looking for a volunteer to support our Conservation Volunteering Programme. You will learn practical conservation skills including footpath construction, woodland & grassland management, together with the production of costings, project leadership & delivery of community based events. We provide valuable practical experience which will develop your essential skills required for employment in the environmental sector. Some accredited training (e.g. First Aid at Work) to support your delivery & development will be available. BUT Over 21, available for 2-3 days per week, including some weekends, from 9am to 5pm & have a driving licence for 2+ years (desirable). Previous experience of practical conservation volunteering essential. ASK 01752 217721 x 364, CV & covering email to Rupert.Goddard@groundwork.org.uk www.groundworksouthwest.org.uk

DES To assist the leader in helping people develop their horticulture skills & help lead the group when the leader is absent, at BTCV’s new community garden & hort training site. Based at our sustainable offices near Cambourne for half a day & a the garden site near Truro on 2 days, this is a great opportunity to gain first-hand experience of setting up & running a gardening project & of leading groups. Opportunity to undertake a level 1, 2 or 3 qual in Hort as well as lots of other free training. Cornwall BTCV has an enviable record of helping our Vos into jobs in the environmental sector. BUT Must be over 21 & pref have had a full driving licence for 3+ years. ASK Betty Levene, BTCV, Conservation Centre, Tuckingmill Valley Park, Tolgarrick Road, Tuckingmill, Camborne, Kernow TR14 8NH Tel / Fax: 01209 610610.

PAY Local travel expenses & some certified practical training FOR NATIONAL TRUST

DES The 12,500 acre Holnicote Estate is in West Somerset on the Bristol Channel coast & within Exmoor National Park. The placement includes mainly hands-on practical conservation work & assisting with the co-ordination & management of local volunteers, & involvement with events & other project work as necessary. A min of 6 months commitment is required. Training to include the use of brushcutters, first aid, off road driving & NVQ level 2 diploma in Env Conservation may be given. No accom available. BUT May have recently completed a Countryside Management course & looking for experience to enter the Conservation sector. Must be able to work on own initiative, show enthusiasm & interest in the countryside & have a practical aptitude. Some experience desirable. Clean driving licence. ASK Rob Manicom, Holnicote Estate Office, Selworthy, Minehead, Somerset TA24 8TJ Robert.manicom@nationaltrust.org.uk Chat: Rob, 01643 862452.

Bournemouth National Trust Volunteers give you an opportunity for days in the beautiful Dorset countryside performing valuable conservation work along with other likeminded people. We usually meet on Sundays and anyone is welcome to come along. To find out more about us see www.bournemouth-ntv.org.uk

National Trust: Don't be a Stranger Meet the Ranger

Want to learn more about how our Nature Reserves are managed? or just enjoy the outdoors and exercise in the fresh air? Then don't miss your opportunity to get hands on to help protect our beautiful Heathland in Studland Dorset. Contact: aemelia.roe@nationaltrust.org.uk /Mob: 07917 456808

Devon Wildlife Trust

For an exciting range of volunteering opportunities all over Devon, including practical conservation, long-term placements, office tasks, survey and events, contact Dawn Lenn, Volunteers Officer, Devon Wildlife Trust dlenn@devonwildlifetrust.org; 01392 279244 or go to www.devonwildlifetrust.org

DES Cleaning out monkey cages, preparing food for the monkeys, enrichment & collecting leaves. Assisting with workshops during public opening days & general duties in the day to day running of the sanctuary. BUT Enthusiasm & willingness to help. A good command of the English language. ASK will@monkeysanctuary.org

DES Assist gardener in looking after Wildlife gardens, Organic growing areas, Permaculture areas. Opportunity to work & learn in interesting garden of Monkey Sanctuary & in a beautiful location. Needed May-June 3-5 weeks. BUT Plant identification skills for weeding. Self-motivation & ability both to work on own & as part of a team. ASK Resume or brief letter of relevant experience to Will, will@wildfutures.org

DES You will be providing an information service about DWT & wildlife in general for visitors & callers. Information Centre: Meet & greet visitors, answer general questions & occasionally assist staff with tours. Maintain & update wildlife information resources available in the centre. Wildlife helpdesk: Provide information to the general public on wildlife, env & conservation issues, via email, phone & face to face. You may, on rare occasions, be dealing with sensitive or controversial issues, so a mature & confidential approach is necessary. BUT Knowledge of wildlife advantageous but not essential, but a passion for wildlife is! Friendly & helpful manner & excellent interpersonal skills; highly organised; able to remain calm & polite even at busy times; prepared to give DWT policy rather than personal opinion; enthusiasm for undertaking research; literate to respond to letters or emails. Willingness to work independently & unsupervised & knowledge of computers essential. ASK dlenn@devonwildlifetrust.org.uk 01392 279244.

Wembury Marine Centre always needs part time volunteers to help out between April and September each year, volunteers assist with public events e.g. rockpool rambles, beach cleans and seashore crafts and help deliver rockpooling sessions for school groups. Contact Cat Andrews on info@wemburymarinecentre.org and visit our website www.wemburymarinecentre.org

DES Our office at the Create Centre is looking for office assistance for around 2 days a week. Tasks will incl computer data input, dealing with phone enquiries for our many nature conservation projects, helping project officers with a variety of tasks & anything else you think needs doing! The role would suit anyone interested in developing their office skills. BUT Self-motivated & enjoy working in an office that can either be very full or very empty. An interest in conservation would be useful but not essential. ASK Bekki Farrar, 0117 9298488 .farrar@btcv.org.uk

DES Assisting a wide range of individuals, disabled & able-bodied to have experiences with horses including riding, carriage driving, natural horsemanship & more. Some horse care opportunities also available. We work with volunteer to determine the best time that they can come to suit both us & them. BUT No horse experience required, however being fit & active is beneficial. We are looking for someone friendly & outgoing, who likes working with people & animals. ASK volunteerexmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk or call the stables on 01598 763059 to discuss volunteering.

DES For the high profile flight season of the large blue butterfly. 6 weeks 1 June 2011 to 8 July. Collard Hill is the only open access site to see this rare butterfly & attracts hundreds of enthusiasts from right across the country. Lead person to co-ordinate a team of vols delivering visitor management & biological recording during busy flight season. High profile role offers unique chance to work with some of the country’s leading butterfly experts. Duties: Manage visitors to ensure visits are safe (site is a steep slope) & enjoyable & that the butterfly is protected. Co-ordinate a group of local vol butterfly enthusiasts to run the duty rota for the site. Also responsible for conducting important research into butterflies population & distribution, as well as the visitor experience & summarising findings in an end of season report. BUT Enthusiastic, able communicator & can demonstrate experience of working with the public. Active interest in env conservation & able to demonstrate the benefits this post would bring to their work. Good knowledge of butterfly ecology a strong advantage although training given prior to flight season. Constant need to walk on steep slopes often in very warm conditions so should be physically fit. ASK Robert Holden robert.holden@nationaltrust.org.uk

Volunteers sought for longer-term positions supporting the work of rural centre for sustainability education. All workers live on site within consensus-based intentional community. Responsibilities range from administrative and finance to construction and maintenance to farmland, orchard and garden management. Email Monkton Wyld Court, Dorset at info@monktonwyldcourt.org

People engagement volunteers – RSPB Exe Estuary Reserve, Devon. We are looking for a number of friendly and enthusiastic individuals to act as ambassadors for the Exe Estuary nature reserve, chatting to people about the estuary landscape and the work of the RSPB. Please contact Sally Mills by email sally.mills@rspb.org.uk

Lapwing Survey Volunteers – RSPB Exe Estuary Reserve, Devon. We are seeking a keen and motivated individual to coordinate and undertake monitoring of the last largest remaining population of Lapwing in Devon, through monitoring breeding pairs and productivity. Please contact Sally Mills by email – sally.mills@rspb.org.uk

Interested in volunteering for 3 months or each Tuesday?

Magdalen Farm is a 132 acre organic farm on the beautiful Somerset, Dorset, Devon borders. We are a site of NCI and AONB. We are a working farm, an Educational Centre and a Care Farming Centre. www.themagdalenproject.org.uk

Roving Reserve Guide (4992) Help our visitors really enjoy their day out, enhancing their nature reserve experience & encouraging them to visit again. Be a friendly face out and about on the reserve, helping to identify wildlife & pointing them in the right direction. Telling people about RSPB work and membership. Opportunity to be the public face of RSPB. Get to learn more about the wildlife & conservation of Arne & enjoy the great outdoors, plus you’ll be meeting & passing on your knowledge & skills to many people of different ages & backgrounds. BUT Love nature, enjoy being outside & like a chat. Friendly, approachable person who wants to share passion for wildlife with visitors. Need a good general knowledge of wildlife, able to deal with the general public & tact & diplomacy & able to initiate conversations. Commitment of 1-2 days per month+

Voluntary Information Assistant (1077) Help to welcome visitors & enhance their visitor experience. Staff the information hut, providing info to the public & recruiting new RSPB members. Opportunity to be the public face of RSPB. We can help you gain skills & give you a valuable insight into our work. BUT Be good with people, friendly disposition, enthusiasm for RSPB, tact & diplomacy. Some natural history/conservation knowledge an advantage. Commitment of 1 day per month+ from April to September.

Guide in a Hide (4993) Provide an excellent experience for visitors to the 2 hides, making people feel extra welcome & helping people learn more about birds & be inspired by wildlife. Chance to learn about the ecology & wildlife of the nature reserve. BUT Enthusiastic amateur (or more experienced) birdwatchers. Outgoing personality, able to initiate conversation & deal with the general public with tact & diplomacy & be passionate about wildlife. Need to have confidence but being an expert is not necessary. Commitment of 1-2 days per month+ all year round. Both: PAY 0, appropriate training provided & expenses re-imbursed where necessary. ASK Ref: Quote rel ref to Paul Morton 01929 553360 paul.morton@rspb.org.uk

DES Help us fundraise in the South West. Help research new methods of community fundraising such as walks for wildlife, challenge events, themed days, quizzes etc. Also research new external events for us to attend across the region from Cornwall to Bristol. BUT Good IT skills, especially ability to use Excel spreadsheets & the internet. Must be organised & able to keep accurate records of the research undertaken. ASK Nikki Marks 01392 457194 nikki.marks@rspb.org.uk

DES Memberships are vital to enable the RSPB carry out its wildlife conservation work, safeguarding species & habitats in the UK & internationally. We need your help to enthuse & inspire others with amazing facts & stories about our wildlife conservation projects & encourage funds through membership to support this work. We are looking for passionate people to help us encourage new members at events, festivals & shows in the local area & also at our Dorset reserves. This is a great opportunity to help fund wildlife conservation, meet people from a wide variety of backgrounds & enhance your skills. It’s also a great way of getting into the big shows for FREE! BUT Commitment of 1 day per week is desirable. ASK Lynne Burningham, 01305 773519 / 07826 919038 lynne.burningham@rspb.org.uk

DES Join the Living Seas team for marine conservation, education & awareness programme. Cover the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve for 13 weeks between April & October 2011. Work involves: Day to day running of the Marine Centre & aquaria; engage & provide info to visitors; patrol the reserve & liaise with users; assist with school groups, public events & activities; assist with shore based survey & monitoring programmes & marine projects & events along the wide Dorset coast; assist with local publicity & advertising. Training given: first aid; H&S; Marine species ID; marine education & awareness; leading & delivering school talks & events. Dissertation opportunities: The Strandline habitat & the effects of mechanical cleaning; Suitability of seabed habitat in the Reserve as a skate nursery area; Visitor perception of marine litter & impacts on wildlife; Visitor & stakeholder perception of the introduction of Marine Protected Areas locally; Levels of visitor awareness of sustainable seafood choices. BUT Enthusiastic. Would suit a student or young person with an interest in marine conservation, marine env &/or env ed. 13+ weeks with availability to work 2+ weekends per month desirable. Own transport essential. Subject to CRB check. ASK CV & letter to Julie Hatcher, Marine Awareness Officer, Dorset Wildlife Trust, Fine Foundation Marine Centre, Kimmeridge Bay, Wareham, Dorset BH20 5PF 01929 481044 kimmeridge@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

DES You will help our staff to run recruitment & information stands at various events & venues across the county. We need your help to enthuse others about wildlife conservation & encourage support of our work by recruiting new members to the RSPB. BUT Friendly, enthusiastic & outgoing people who love a challenge. Role will involve standing for long periods at events & shows, & being able to carry membership materials. ASK Nikki Marks, 01392 457194 nikki.marks@rspb.org.uk

DES Ongoing recruitment with commitment of 2 days per month all year round. Help enhance our visitor experience. Welcome visitors onto the reserve by being stationed at the duck feeding platform outside the visitor centre. Tell visitors about the work of the RSPB & hopefully encourage them to explore the nature reserve & to support RSPB through joining. We will have various wildlife objects for you to show our visitors. Opportunity to be the public face of RSPB & an essential part of the team. Role duties incl: helping out on guided wildlife walks, in the visitor centre on events & engaging with visitors. BUT Passionate & enthusiastic, able to tell our visitors about the wildlife on the reserve & show them various birds & creatures. Knowledge of wildlife would be useful & good people skills essential. ASK Ref: 5072 Luke Phillips 01305 778313 luke.philips@rspb.org.uk

DES BirdLife Malta has organised a camp for the past 3 years during the annual spring migration period to monitor migration & keep a check on illegal hunting activities. This is an excellent chance to make a genuine contribution to wildlife conservation & experience life in another country. This year’s event will take place between the 10 – 24/4/11 & participants are welcome to stay for 1 week or more. Cost: Hotel accom (shared incl all meals 24 euro per day. Taxi transfer from airport 25 euro. BUT All one really needs is enthusiasm & motivation to monitor bird migration & help in the fight against the illegal hunting of protected species. However, a number of vols are required to have good bird ID skills, please specify your level of skills when you enlist. Vols skilled in the use of video cameras & camcorders are also needed. ASK To book your place: http://www.birdlifemalta.org/Content/conservation/springwatch2011/1100/ springwatch@birdlifemalta.org

Conservation Volunteers Australia offers projects starting weekly across Australia. Our projects range from urban to outback, from desert to coast and everywhere in between! Typical activities are team based and include tree planting, habitat restoration, wildlife surveys, track building, seed collection etc. bookings@conservationvolunteers.com.au www.conservationvolunteers.com.au A charge for meals, accommodation and project-related travel applies on all projects.

DES Group 1: 4/6/11–20/8/11. Group 2: 11/6/11-27/8/11. Group 3: 18/6/11-3/9/11. Trail Teams work on a variety of footpath construction projects & other conservation management tasks throughout the country’s national parks & nature reserves, often staying in camps within these areas. Vols work in small teams & travel between worksites to complete a series of practical projects. The programme runs for 11 weeks & the teams usually spend 1 or 2 weeks in each location. BUT No previous experience of this work necessary as all training provided, however, enthusiasm & team spirit essential. Due to the strenuous nature of the work, participants must be physically fit. Applicants should have some experience of practical work, camping & hill walking. The remoteness of worksites & Iceland’s notoriously changeable weather make the volunteer programme both an adventure & a challenge. Applicants must be over 20 years of age. ASK http://bit.ly/IcelandVol

DES 1 year contract pref, but would consider short term applicants. Commencing March 2011. Cercopan is assisting the Iko Esai community to protect more than 20,000ha of community forest on the borders of the cross River National Park. The site is home to 60 semi-free ranging forest monkeys & an array of wildlife. You would be responsible for undertaking construction & maintenance of the physical environment of Cercopan’s Rhoko operations. Involves the management, training & development of local staff. BUT Appropriate technical qual within a construction & / or building services discipline (e.g. BTEC ordinary / NHD or equiv) or equiv high level of work experience. Good all-rounder with a wide range of skills / knowledge / experience. Driving licence essential. Ability to drive 4 x 4 & some knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance beneficial. Able to live & work in the rainforest env. ASK cover letter & CV to Claire Coulson (Director Cercopan) Claire.coulson@cercopan.org

DES We have a wide variety of conservation & marine projects, where you’ll live & volunteer on game reserves. Time will be spent working alongside rangers monitoring lions & elephants, learning bush survival skills, wildlife research on black rhino or even gaining hands-on veterinary experience. Projects range from 2 to 12 weeks. If you’re looking for excitement, want to make a difference or yearning for adventure then come & join our conservation projects in South Africa. All training carried out onsite BUT Someone who likes wildlife & wants to get involved in conservation work. A passionate & committed individual looking for an exciting adventure. ASK Chat: 0845 257 3205 Apply: www.shumbaexperience.co.uk

PTES Mammals on Roads Survey. By recording the mammals along road journeys, we can build a picture of how species distribution and abundance is changing. Visit our website at www.ptes.org/mor or email mor@ptes.org for a free survey park. Survey starts 1st July. Annual survey, deadline 30 Sept.

Wildflowers Count - Plantlife's annual plant survey

Volunteers needed to survey a randomly assigned 1km square near their home. Survey a Wildflower path, a 5x5m square, a 1x20m linear plot, using a list of 99 common plants. good botanists can identify more at super-surveyor level. Free survey pack supplied. Register on 01722 342755 or at www.plantlife.org.uk.

We need your help to find out more about our swifts

You've probably seen them speeding through the air, screaming their heads off, or swooping into crevices in buildings. But they're in trouble. Tell us where you see swifts and help us to help them. To find out more and how you can help, visit: www.rspb.org.uk/helpswifts

Frogwatch - hop on board.

This is a national survey to find out more about urban distributions of widespread amphibians, discovering more about their habits and about their garden habitats. Anyone with or without a garden pond can participate. If you need help working out which amphibians you’ve spotted then our amphibian guide might come in useful. Find out more at www.froglife.org/frogwatch

Key: REF CJS reference no. (job number – source – delete date) JOB Title

BE4 Application closing date IV = Interview date LOC Location

PAY £ range - usually per annum (but check starting point) FOR Employer

DES Description of Job BUT Person Spec / Requirements ASK More details from / How to apply

CJS Suggestions: Please check the BUT section to ensure that you have all of the required qualifications / experience before you apply. Contact ONLY the person, number or address given & if an SAE is required double check you use the correct stamps.

PLEASE REMEMBER to DOUBLE CHECK the BE4 (closing date) of the vacancies. And please contact only the person, telephone number, email address given.

Also, please mention CJS when applying. This CJS Focus was published 14/2/11.

The CJS team would like to thank everyone who has contributed adverts, articles and information for this CJS Focus publication. Next edition will feature Outdoor Recreation, published 20/6/11.

A4 sides this CJS Focus: 27 - Details believed correct but given without prejudice, Ends.

Countryside Jobs Service

Focus on Volunteering

Endorsed by both the Scottish Countryside Rangers Association & the Countryside Management Association