CJS Focus on Volunteering

Find an explanation of the headings used in the following linage adverts by clicking here.

CJS posts these adverts free of charge, send us your roles for inclusion as SFL here. Find out why we do this here.

Scotland:

JOB   FESTIVAL VOLUNTEER

BE4  02/04/22

LOC  GALLOWAY HILLS, SW SCOTLAND

PAY  Accommodation/camping/all meals as below

FOR  KNOCKENGORROCH CIC

Start date: 9th April for a week or so - Site prep and maintenance for Knockengorroch Festival. Our festival returns in 2022 so we have a lot of work to do to be ready for 19 May. Building, track/path/bridge repair, gardening, cleaning, sorting, painting, cooking amongst other jobs, mostly outdoors. Upland remote location in our own glen in the Galloway hills of SW Scotland, surrounded by hill, mountain, forest and river. Enthusiasm, a work ethic and love of the great outdoors welcome. Building and joinery skills would be very useful. All meals provided and good company. There is a possibility of a basic caravan to stay in. There may also be an opportunity to join our festival production team or festival crew for this May’s festival. Please email info@knockengorroch.og.uk to find out more.

JOB   MARINE CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  EYEMOUTH, SCOTTISH BORDERS

PAY  Training will be provided

FOR  BERWICKSHIRE MARINE RESERVE

This is an excellent opportunity for applicants to gain interdisciplinary experience while working with a unique marine conservation charity. Our volunteers will be an integral part of the BMR team ensuring delivery on our programme of events and supporting our Project Officer undertaking a variety of citizen science projects to engage our local community in robust data collection. Please contact Alice Fisher, alice@berwickshiremarinereserve.org.uk 01890 752509

JOB   PIN BADGE VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  FLEXIBLE

PAY  Expenses covered, appropriate training provided

FOR  RSPB SCOTLAND

Community fundraising is crucial for the RSPB, as it allows us to continue the work we do to protect UK’s natural habitats and our unique wildlife. Our “pin badge scheme” is one of our most successful fundraising initiatives, thanks to our almost 1,500 committed pin badge volunteers across the UK. A volunteer can raise thousands of pounds a year to support our conservation projects just by managing a few pin badge boxes! Being the local face of the RSPB, you will be helping us develop our fundraising capacity by placing and maintaining 1 to 5 pin badge boxes in your chosen area. Volunteers are required to visit their box(es) every 4 to weeks to top up the pin badges and bank the money. You then have to simply log that income on our user friendly online system and order more pin badge stock. The role is suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities and can take as little as one hour a month. If you would like to know more about becoming a pin badge volunteer, or if you’d like to host a pin badge box, please email communityfundraisingscotland@rspb.org.uk. For other volunteering roles available with the RSPB in your area, go to https://c-js.uk/33IQpsq.

JOB   VOLUNTEER ASSISTANT FOREST SCHOOLS LEADER

BE4  31/03/22

LOC  BONNYRIGG/MIDLOTHIAN

PAY  Induction training, Bushcraft skills training. Travel expenses (within 30 miles)

FOR  INSTINCTIVELY WILD CIC

Are you instinctively wild - love working outdoors/with nature and have an understanding and aptitude for working with children with additional support needs? We are currently running Forest Schools programmes in Midlothian with children with additional support needs. We need help to deliver Forest Schools sessions. Potential volunteers need to be locally based. (Within 30 miles). Sessions take place on Thursday and Friday mornings. As we are working with children we have a thorough vetting procedure in place. This involves an informal chat, application form/references and a PVG (Police Check). In the first instance contact Pete Carthy and ask for a Volunteer Induction Booklet. pcarthy@instinctivelywild.co.uk 07555 445605.

JOB   DISTRICT VOLUNTEER

DEL 01/09/22

LOC  OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS SCOTLAND

PAY  Training, garden visits

FOR  SCOTLAND’S GARDENS SCHEME

Our District Volunteers help our District Organisers and Garden Openers to open private gardens to the public for charity. This is a varied role that includes helping at gardens with admissions, teas, signage and car parking on the day of the opening, as well as publicity beforehand. It's a great opportunity to support different charities, build new relationships, develop your gardening knowledge and visit beautiful gardens. We offer training and support, regional meetings and the opportunity to attend our National Conference. 2-4 hpw. Please contact Liz Stewart. 0131 226 3714 info@scotlandsgardens.org https://scotlandsgardens.org/our-volunteers/

JOB   INVERNESS WILDLIFE WATCH LEADER

BE4  13/03/22 - the position may be filled prior to this date

LOC  INVERNESS

PAY  Application costs will be covered by the Scottish Wildlife Trust

FOR  SCOTTISH WILDLIFE TRUST

What we are looking for: an interest in wildlife; creativity; good organisational skills; enjoys the outdoors; enthusiastic about helping children and/or young people to have fun discovering wildlife. Useful but not essential: experience of working with children; lives locally; first aid qualified; experience of working or volunteering for conservation. What you will get in return: a chance to be part of an excellent environmental education group; inspire the next generation to care about wildlife and the environment; get out and about and experience wildlife; an opportunity to create and lead sessions. Time: TBC - 2 hours per month. The completion of an application to the PVG scheme is essential for this role, due to the close work involved with young people. To find out more, contact Holly Owens, People and Wildlife Officer, howens@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk.

JOB   WILDLIFE WATCH LEADER

BE4  01/04/22 (The role may be filled from applications received prior to this date)

LOC  JUPITER URBAN WILDLIFE CENTRE, GRANGEMOUTH, EAST FALKIRK

PAY  Application cost will be covered by the Scottish Wildlife Trust

FOR  SCOTTISH WILDLIFE TRUST

What we are looking for: an interest in wildlife; creativity; good organisational skills; enjoys the outdoors; enthusiastic about helping young people to have fun discovering wildlife; availability once a month on Saturday mornings and/or Tuesday evenings. Useful but not essential: experience of working with children/teens; lives locally; first aid qualified; experience of working or volunteering for conservation. What you will get in return: A chance to be part of an excellent environmental education group; inspire the next generation to care about wildlife and the environment; get out and about and experience wildlife; an opportunity to create and lead sessions. Time: TBC - 2 hours per month. To find out more, please contact Claire Martin, Falkirk Ranger falkirkranger@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk

North East:

Northumberland Wildlife Trust is a charity dedicated to protecting wildlife and habitats within Northumberland, North Tyneside and Newcastle and educating people about nature conservation. We’re part of the wider family of Wildlife Trusts in the UK and we manage over 60 local nature reserves. Find out more here - https://www.nwt.org.uk/

JOB PRACTICAL CONSERVATION WORKER
DEL  01/09/22

LOC  St Nicholas Park, Gosforth with transport to Trust sites provided.
PAY  Hands on training in delivery of various practical tasks
FOR  NORTHUMBERLAND WILDLIFE TRUST

One day as and when. Tasks take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and occasional Mondays. Start time from Gosforth is 9:15am with an end time between 3 – 4:30 pm. Assist in the delivery of practical environmental tasks on NWT reserves, community / partner sites and corporate sites. This is a great opportunity to get involved in practical tasks, meet new people, spend time outdoors and build practical environmental experience for career development. Full training will be provided. For further information and to apply please visit https://c-js.uk/33HQtIY.

JOB  CEMETERY VOLUNTEERS

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  Hunslet, Holbeck, Cottingley, Harehills, Armley, Otley, cemeteries in these areas

PAY  Meeting people, helping maintain and preserve the cemetery, looking after the wildlife and flora, keeping healthy and fit. Can claim travel expenses up to daily limit.

FOR  LEEDS CITY COUNCIL RANGER TEAM

Volunteering to help maintain cemeteries, vegetation management, path work, planting, weeding, litter picking and more. From a few hours to a few days each month. Please contact Heather Wagstaff (Ranger Heather) heather.wagstaff@leeds.gov.uk 07562439631.

JOB  INFORMATION ASSISTANT

BE4  01/09/22

LOC  Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre, Low Hauxley, Northumberland

PAY  Vehicle mileage and public transport costs will be reimbursed. Opportunity to shadow existing ‘Bird Count’ wardens to learn about the reserve and local wildlife.

FOR  NORTHUMBERLAND WILDLIFE TRUST

Northumberland Wildlife Trust is looking for an Information Assistant to volunteer at their Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre. The Centre is one of the best wildlife-watching spots in the North East and offers fantastic views across the length of Druridge Bay. Responsibilities include staffing the reception area, welcoming and engaging with visitors, assisting with occasional walks/talks, helping to ensure visitors adhere to site rules and recruiting new NWT members and volunteers. The position is suitable for someone who is friendly and approachable, with knowledge of the local area and/or wildlife. Usually half a day per week as part of rota system – morning 9am - 12:30pm afternoon 12:30pm - 4pm. For further information and to apply please visit https://www.nwt.org.uk/volunteering-opportunities/information-assistant

JOB   ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ASSISTANT

BE4  08/04/22

LOC  ST NICHOLAS PARK, GOSFORTH

PAY  Vehicle mileage and public transport costs will be reimbursed. Training in delivery of wildlife activities to children.

FOR  NORTHUMBERLAND WILDLIFE TRUST

Northumberland Wildlife Trust is looking for Environmental Education Assistant volunteers to assist the project officer in the delivery of environmental education activity sessions with schools, youth groups and adult community groups (sometimes vulnerable adults). These activities will take place on nature reserves, in public areas, community buildings or schools. We are looking to build a pool of volunteers for ongoing schedule of events. We expect opportunities to come along about one to three times per week. Full training will be provided. Two references will be required and in certain situations an enhanced DBS check may be required. For further information and to apply please visit https://www.nwt.org.uk/volunteering-opportunities/environmental-education-assistant

JOB   BIOLOGICAL SURVEYORS – WATER VOLE

BE4  01/04/22

LOC  St Nicholas Park, Gosforth with travel to Kielder and other parts of Northumberland.
PAY  Training in survey, identification and data collection techniques. Volunteers will have the opportunity to attend volunteer training events offered by NWT as well as build environmental experience for career development. Vehicle mileage and public transport costs will be reimbursed.

FOR  NORTHUMBERLAND WILDLIFE TRUST

Northumberland Wildlife Trust is looking for volunteer Biological Surveyors to work on their water vole projects. This is a great opportunity to gain some practical conservation experience, spend time outdoors and meet new people. Responsibilities could include assisting with the capture and release of water voles, undertaking water vole surveys as well as constructing and maintaining mink rafts. Volunteers should have good communication skills but training in relevant survey, identification and data collection techniques will be provided. For further information and to apply please visit: https://www.nwt.org.uk/volunteering-opportunities/biological-surveyors-water-vole

JOB  GROUP CO-ORDINATORS - YORKSHIRE

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  YORK NORTH, SELBY, HULL, HARROGATE, WHITBY, EAST RIDING WEST, YORKSHIRE WOLDS, SHEFFIELD AND BARNSLEY

PAY  0

FOR  SUSTRANS

Would you like to help make it easier for people to walk and cycle? We’re looking for group coordinators to bring together and motivate local volunteers and to help coordinate group activities such as practical taskdays, promotional stalls, led walks and rides. You will act as the main volunteer contact in the area and ensure information, knowledge and resources are shared with local volunteers, linking in with other local Sustrans groups, organisations and staff. We are looking for someone who is committed to the Sustrans ethos, an excellent communicator, a good motivator, acting as support and encouragement for others, someone able to identify skills and interests in the group and someone able to work with a diverse range of people. This is an ongoing vacancy with a time commitment of 1-2 days per month. For more information and to apply please visit our website - https://www.sustrans.org.uk/volunteer-vacancies

North West:

MNTEV members work at National Trust sites in Merseyside and nearby on Sundays about fortnightly, e.g. hedge and tree planting, woodland, heath and footpath maintenance, coastline conservation. Previous experience unnecessary, tools provided, friendly welcome. Under 18 must be accompanied by adult. Contact John at 0151 6779664, jmh@noc.ac.uk

If you're interested in working with our small, friendly team in beautiful Eskdale valley, please get in touch. We seek people able to get stuck in and support our visitor services, maintenance crew, gardeners and/or hands-on operating and maintaining a watermill. Visit www.eskdalemill.co.uk/volunteering for more information.

Join Chester National Trust Volunteers for a day. CNTV do voluntary work at NT sites across Cheshire, Marches, Wirral - two days per fortnight. Tuesday & Thursday groups. Previous experience unnecessary, job for everyone, Tools provided, friendly welcome. Contact Brian Payne chesterntv@gmail.com facebook.com/groups/chesternationaltrustvolunteers

JOB   REWILDING VOLUNTEER

BE4  30/10/22

LOC  ACCRINGTON, HYNDBURN, EAST LANCASHIRE

PAY  Training & travel up to £5.00

FOR  THE PROSPECTS FOUNDATION

Take part in weekly activity sessions, sowing wildflower meadows, laying hedges, planting trees among other activities! All materials are provided, enthusiasm, a willingness to learn & share your skills with the community are all that are needed. Woodworking, gardening & practical environmental conservation skills are welcome, although these will be developed whilst volunteering with the project. A love of nature & willingness to contribute to planning & delivery of activities are a bonus! Level of commitment; 3 hpw on either a Monday or Tuesday during the daytime plus opportunities to take part in extra training & events. For more information please contact Gareth on 01254 230348 or gareth.muir@prospectsfoundation.org.uk.

JOB  HABITATS AND HERITAGE VOLUNTEER

BE4  01/04/23

LOC  ACCRINGTON, HYNDBURN, EAST LANCASHIRE

PAY  Training & travel up to £5.00

FOR  THE PROSPECTS FOUNDATION

Prospects Foundation manages 8 woodlands in the borough on behalf of Lancashire County Council. Volunteers are needed to support Prospects to look after these and other sites in Hyndburn through practical environment conservation activities and training. Volunteers will engage in practical environmental conservation tasks including; litter picking, Invasive species/woodland/meadow/pond management and maintenance. Training opportunities are available to gain AQA certificates along with Health and Safety and First Aid. This is a practical role and would suit people who are physically active and willing to volunteer in all weather conditions. Level of commitment; 3-4 hours on a Wednesday and/or Thursday during the daytime. There will be opportunities to take part in extra training and workshops at other times of the week. For more information please contact Gareth on 01254 230348 or gareth.muir@prospectsfoundation.org.uk.

JOB  MAPPING VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  ACCRINGTON, HYNDBURN, EAST LANCASHIRE

PAY  Training available and travel reimbursement up to £5

FOR  PROSPECTS FOUNDATION

A volunteer is required to support PROSPECTS Foundation to map Hyndburn’s woodland spaces. The role will involve using various tools to map the borough’s woodlands to provide detailed information about woodland sites to support PROSPECTS Foundation and other organisations planning and delivery of woodland management. This is an ideal opportunity for some looking to gain experience of working in the outdoor sector and would suit a student/graduate and/or someone looking for a career change. Ideally the volunteer will have a broad range of knowledge and skills relating to digital mapping. An enthusiastic attitude and willingness to contribute to PROSPECTS as a whole and the Mapping part of the Habitats & Heritage project are essential. Knowledge and experience of GIS - Geographic Information System mapping would be advantageous. Knowledge of local geography would be a positive. 4 hpw. Contact gareth.muir@prospectsfoundation.org.uk to enquire about the role and register your interest.

Midlands:

JOB   PARKS ASSISTANT

DEL  01/06/22

LOC  WS15 STAFFORDSHIRE

PAY  Training, uniform, lunch

FOR  BEAUDESERT OUTDOOR ACTIVITY CENTRE

Grass cutting, strimming, hedge trimming, fence repairs, general maintenance. We have 120 acres of mixed parklands and woodland to care for. 1 day per week minimum. Please contact nigel@beaudesert.org.uk 01543 682278.

Lincoln Conservation Group carries out practical nature conservation work in the Lincoln area, helping to sustain the local plant and animal life and having fun at the same time! We provide tools and training. Volunteer days (16 years +) are usually on the first and third Sundays each month. www.lincolnconservationgroup.org.uk

Volunteers take all sorts of forms here at Fordhall – there is something for everyone! If you have a passion for nature and working in the outdoors, why not join us on the farm? No experience necessary, just bring your wellies! For more info, visit our website. www.fordhallfarm.com

Wales:

Knighton Community Woodlands Group has weekly conservation task days (alternating Sundays / Thursdays) in woodlands around Knighton, Welsh Marches (Wales/West Midlands). We come together to learn skills and manage woodlands for the benefit of wildlife and our members. Tools and training provided. Contact: 01547 520374, woodland@tveg.org.uk, http://tveg.org.uk/wordpress/woodland-project

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation needs surveyors in North and South Wales! Online and in person training available, all experience levels welcome. Contact: joe.franklin@arc-trust.org (N.W.) or george.mee@arc-trust.org (S.W.) for more information.

JOB   FUNDING VOLUNTEER

DEL  28/03/22

LOC  KNIGHTON AREA (POWYS / SHROPSHIRE / HEREFORDSHIRE BORDER)

PAY  Expenses

FOR  KNIGHTON COMMUNITY WOODLANDS GROUP

Knighton Community Woodlands Group (KCWG) is local people coming together to learn and share woodland skills, and to use those skills for the benefit of wildlife and our members. We are seeking an experienced fundraiser who will use their skills for a few hours each week to help support our development and expansion. Your knowledge of funding sources, and your ability to successfully apply to them, will allow us to provide training and tools to our volunteers, bring woodlands back into management, provide additional volunteering and paid roles, and cover running costs. This opportunity will allow you to work from home and set your own hours. You will be supported by a sociable, experienced and knowledgeable group who have been running for over 10 years. For more information: woodland@tveg.org.uk 01547 520374 http://tveg.org.uk/wordpress/woodland-project

JOB   MARKETING VOLUNTEER

DEL  28/03/22

LOC  KNIGHTON AREA (POWYS / SHROPSHIRE / HEREFORDSHIRE BORDER)

PAY  Expenses

FOR  KNIGHTON COMMUNITY WOODLANDS GROUP

Knighton Community Woodlands Group (KCWG) is local people coming together to learn and share woodland skills, and to use those skills for the benefit of wildlife and our members. We are seeking a marketing volunteer whose role will be to help us for a few hours each week to recruit volunteers, promote our training courses and products, and raise and maintain our public profile. This will involve leading our social media presence, maintaining our website, writing and issuing press releases, advertising our volunteering opportunities through local channels and writing our newsletters. This opportunity will allow you to work from home and set your own hours. You will be supported by a sociable, experienced and knowledgeable group who have been running for over 10 years. For more information: woodland@tveg.org.uk 01547 520374 http://tveg.org.uk/wordpress/woodland-project

JOB   MARKET RESEARCH AND SALES VOLUNTEER

DEL  28/03/22

LOC  KNIGHTON AREA (POWYS / SHROPSHIRE / HEREFORDSHIRE BORDER)

PAY  Expenses

FOR  KNIGHTON COMMUNITY WOODLANDS GROUP

Knighton Community Woodlands Group (KCWG) is local people coming together to learn and share woodland skills, and to use those skills for the benefit of wildlife and our members. We need to become more financially self-sufficient through sales and so need to establish what the potential local market is for woodland products such as charcoal, bean poles, pea sticks and hedging stakes. We are seeking a volunteer for a few hours each week who will contact local retailers to find out if they would be willing to stock these items and the level of stock that they would require. This opportunity would allow you to work from home and set your own hours. You would need to travel to local vendors as required. You will be supported by a sociable, experienced and knowledgeable group who have been running for over 10 years. For more information woodland@tveg.org.uk 01547 520374 http://tveg.org.uk/wordpress/woodland-project

Northern Ireland:

JOB  FLORENCE COURT KITCHEN GARDENER

DEL  31/07/22

LOC  FLORENCE COURT, CO. FERMANAGH, NORTHERN IRELAND

PAY  Travel expenses, training

FOR  NATIONAL TRUST

If you love gardens as much as we do then you’ll know they need a lot of care and attention. Volunteer Gardeners do practical tasks to help maintain the health and appearance of Florence Court kitchen garden. What’s involved? Helping with everyday practical tasks to keep the garden looking its best. Looking after garden machinery and equipment. Being a friendly face for visitors and answering any questions. Helping with projects like new planting or clearing overgrown areas. You are important in making sure things run as smoothly and safely as possible - this includes getting to know health and safety and evacuation procedures. There might occasionally be some other activities that are of interest to you, that we could use your help with. We will discuss these with you as and when they come up. Flexible time commitment. For further information please contact: florencecourt@nationaltrust.org.uk

JOB  FERMANAGH VOLUNTEER RANGER

DEL  31/07/22

LOC  CO. FERMANAGH, NORTHERN IRELAND

PAY  Travel expenses, training

FOR  NATIONAL TRUST

You will volunteer alongside a small team of rangers and other volunteers to manage Crom Estate, Castle Coole or Florence Court assisting with the delivery of day-to-day practical habitat management, ecological monitoring and visitor experience. The location will depend on your personal preference. The range of work is varied so you can choose and become involved in activities to suit and enhance your own personal skills. For further information please contact: florencecourt@nationaltrust.org.uk

JOB  CROM GARDENER VOLUNTEER

DEL  31/07/22

LOC  CROM ESTATE, NEWTOWNBUTLER, CO. FERMANAGH, NORTHERN IRELAND

PAY  Travel expenses, training

FOR  NATIONAL TRUST

The Volunteer Gardener role at Crom Estate is ideal for anyone who is interested in gaining experience in the world of horticulture. Spring & summer: these are the seasons that are our most busy and fruitful in the garden. As the garden springs to life, so do the grass and weeds, so weekly maintenance is key to a beautiful garden. Autumn & winter: this is generally thought to be a quiet time of the year for gardening, but it’s actually a very important time to make plans for the seasons ahead. For further information please contact: crom@nationaltrust.org.uk

JOB  CROM WELCOME VOLUNTEER

DEL  31/07/22

LOC  CROM ESTATE, NEWTOWNBUTLER, CO. FERMANAGH, NORTHERN IRELAND

PAY  Travel expenses, training

FOR  NATIONAL TRUST

This is a seasonal role during our busy visitor season. The Welcome Volunteer role at Crom Estate is ideal for anyone who enjoys working with people and providing a warm welcome. This new role will help provide the coordination and support needed to make outdoor activity happen to ensure visitors have the best experience in Crom. Tasks might include: Facilitating bike and tracker pack hire. Acting as a point of information around arrival area. Support with boat hires and accompanying health and safety. Support with identifying programming activities / opportunities. Proactively dealing with visitor queries. Welcoming visitors to Crom • Help with maintaining the geocaches at Crom through onsite checks and providing visitors with GPS devices. • Keeping the reception area inviting and up to date. Seasonal Role, flexible time commitment. For further information please contact: crom@nationaltrust.org.uk

Anglia:

JOB  INDEPENDENT EVENTS TEAM VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  ACROSS NORFOLK

PAY  Training and expenses

FOR  NORFOLK WILDLIFE TRUST

On average one day per month. We are building a team of enthusiastic volunteers with excellent communication skills to represent the Trust at a variety of events throughout Norfolk. You will be supporting NWT and raising awareness of our work by providing friendly face to face contact and distributing information and events leaflets. For more information about this opportunity please visit the webpage https://c-js.co.uk/2IUbPCv where you will be able to download a role description and an application form or contact Alan Marchbank alanm@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk or on 01603 598360.

JOB  VISITOR CENTRES VOLUNTEERS

DEL 01/09/22

LOC  HOLME DUNES, RANWORTH BROAD & HICKLING BROAD

PAY  Training and expenses

FOR  NORFOLK WILDLIFE TRUST

Several opportunities exist for volunteers to help in our busy seasonal visitor centres at Holme Dunes, Hickling Broad & Ranworth Broad, all of which are fabulous locations. You will be the welcoming face of NWT, sharing your enthusiasm, handling money & promoting our work. They are open 7 days a week, so there are a variety of flexible roles to fit into the rotas, incl regular commitments or more occasional cover, with a particular need for weekends & school holidays. We are especially keen to find more volunteers to help out at our Information Centre on Malthouse Staithe, near our Ranworth Broad Visitor Centre, especially on Sundays. For a full role description & to apply visit https://c-js.co.uk/2IUbPCv & send your application forms to alanm@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk.

JOB   ROADSIDE NATURE RESERVES VOLUNTEER WARDEN

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  SUFFOLK

PAY  0

FOR  SUFFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL

Suffolk has a network of 116 Roadside Nature Reserves which support rare and unusual plants and fungi, and species rich grasslands unique to Suffolk. This is an exciting opportunity to help conserve these important sites and join a dedicated team of volunteer wardens. The role involves keeping a regular eye on your verge/s and letting us know if anything happens to them, as well as raking the cuttings off once a year, to remove nutrients. We would also welcome contributions to our regular newsletter. Equipment and training will be provided, and you will be supported in your role by the Ecology Team. You will need to live locally to your verge. For more details about the role and to see our interactive map of RNRs please visit https://c-js.co.uk/3aVnbW6 please contact RNRs@suffolk.gov.uk to register your interest.

South:

JOB   SURREY COUNTRYSIDE PARTNERSHIPS: VOLUNTARY COUNTRYSIDE MANAGEMENT TRAINING PLACEMENTS

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  Based at Caterham, Surrey (Downlands Partnership) or Epsom, Surrey (Lower Mole Partnership), but required to work/travel across the partnerships' area (principally North/NE Surrey and into Croydon, Sutton & Kingston areas)

PAY  Formal training courses can be funded/offered as required (e.g. brushcutter use). Support with travel expenses can be discussed.

FOR  Surrey Countryside Partnerships, hosted by Surrey County Council

Gain a wide range of practical conservation experience working to maintain & restore a diverse range of habitats, in particular chalk grassland & woodlands. You would be joining in on scheduled volunteer task days, gaining essential on-the-job experience learning about targeted countryside/rare habitat management practices, helping to prepare for tasks, carpentry and opportunities to work with our Downlands Partnership conservation grazing service (stock moves, animal welfare). We work closely with volunteers of all ages, plus school & corporate groups, so excellent communication skills are required & you need to be able to work confidently as part of a small busy team. Physically demanding at times and involves working outdoors in all weathers. Full clean driving licence and access to a vehicle essential. An ideal first voluntary training placement during/post countryside management studies. Principally weekdays; we can be flexible on placement duration and number of working days per week. Please email your interest and outline CV to: countrysidepartnershipsteam@surreycc.gov.uk. Find out more about our work: http://www.surreycc.gov.uk/surreycountrysidepartnerships.
 

JOB  YOUTH GROUP LEADER WILDLIFE EXPLORERS

BE4  01/05/22

LOC  RSPB THE LODGE. SANDY, BEDFORDSHIRE

PAY  Support and training available from RSPB

FOR  RSPB

We are looking for an enthusiastic individual to be an inspiring leader, working alongside a team of assistant and junior leaders to run activities that encourage young people to explore and develop a passion for nature. You will plan and lead monthly programme of activities for children aged 8 to 12. You will coordinate and lead a team of assistant leaders to help run the group, agreeing roles for each team member to ensure meetings are planned and delivered safely and successfully. Experience of working with young people is essential and good communication skill are important. Please visit rspb.org.uk to apply for this position. https://c-js.uk/3GKCeQV
 

JOB  VISITOR ENGAGEMENT VOLUNTEER

DEL  14/08/22

LOC  RSPB DUNGENESS

PAY  The RSPB will reimburse you for out of pocket expenses travel expenses, we will provide the equipment, training and any uniform needed for you to complete the role.

FOR  RSPB

As a Visitor Engagement Volunteer the tasks will include some of the following: Providing a friendly welcome to visitors when they arrive and making them aware of parking/entry requirements. Having conversations with visitors and finding out how you can help them enjoy their visit, whether that's pointing out where the Visitor Centre is or where they can see wildlife. Helping deliver events and activities, including setting up and clearing away afterward. Talking to the public about the work of the RSPB, what we're all about, and asking them if they would like to become members if the conversation takes you there. Ensuring the welcome area is clean and tidy, leaflets are replenished and information boards are up to date. Full training and support will be provided for this role but you do need to be a ‘people person' and have good communication skills. For more information: corinne.pardey@rspb.org.uk 07712 303184 https://c-js.uk/3sHHAYb

JOB   EVENT HELPER

DEL  14/08/22

LOC  RSPB DUNGENESS

PAY  The RSPB will reimburse you for out of pocket expenses travel expenses, we will provide the equipment, training and any uniform needed for you to complete the role.

FOR  RSPB

As an Events Volunteer you will helping out in a range of ways, this will depend on which events you're working on, but will include some of the following: Providing a friendly welcome to visitors and members of the public. Having conversations with visitors and members of the public, and finding out how you can help them. Talking to the public about the work of the RSPB, what we're all about and asking them if they would like to become members if the conversation takes you there. Ensuring the event stand is clean and tidy, leaflets are replenished and information boards are up to date. Helping deliver events ‘on stand’ activities, such as nest box building, children's educational activities. Event planning and coordination - including setting up and clearing away afterwards. Participating in event reviews and providing constructive feedback. More information: https://c-js.uk/3gZOy5o

JOB  RETAIL VOLUNTEER

DEL  14/08/22

LOC  RSPB DUNGENESS

PAY  The RSPB will reimburse you for out of pocket expenses travel expenses, we will provide the equipment, training and any uniform needed for you to complete the role.

FOR  RSPB

We are looking for volunteers to help in our shops on reserves. Volunteers serve customers, stock shelves and make our shops a friendly place to visit. Profits made from our shops mean that we can continue to protect wildlife. What you will be doing Welcoming and talking to customers. Providing information about products. Serving customers at the till. Opening up and closing the shop. Checking stock levels and replenishing when necessary. Ensuring the shop is clean and tidy. Keeping up to date with current offers and promotions and mentioning these to customers. This is a rewarding role with a friendly team during which you will learn new skills and gain experience working in the hospitality industry. The money raised through our retail and catering contributes to nature conservation, so you’ll get satisfaction from making a difference. More information: https://c-js.uk/3BzRm2C or contact Corinne Pardey 07712 303184, corinne.pardey@rspb.org.uk

JOB   FRIENDS VOLUNTEER ROLES (VARIOUS)

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  HOME BASED / STAUNTON COUNTRY

PAY  Parking

FOR  HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

Do you care about the future of your local Country Park? We are a local group committed to supporting Hampshire Countryside Service in the preservation & conservation of Staunton Country Park. Our projects seek to educate the public about the park’s history, its flora & fauna and to support the park’s positive development. The Friends of Staunton Country Park group are looking for new members to help with its various projects, including fundraising appeals, social media promotion and website maintaining. Time commitment flexible, ongoing. Email chairmanfoscp18@gmail.com to find out more.

JOB   PARK MAINTENANCE VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  STAUNTON COUNTRY PARK, HAVANT

PAY  Parking, refreshments, training

FOR  HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

Looking to volunteer outdoors and support your local Country Park? This group role works alongside volunteers and ranger staff to carry out a wide variety of tasks. Dependent on the season this could include clearing overgrowing vegetation, scrub management, installing and maintaining gates, fences, and benches, as well as keeping the park tidy and litter free. No specific skills are needed but a willingness to volunteer in all weathers is appreciated! A basic level of fitness will be needed as tasks are physical and on uneven terrain. Flexible time commitment. Email scpch@hants.gov.uk to find out more.

JOB   MEETING AND GREETING VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  STAUNTON COUNTRY PARK, HAVANT

PAY  Parking, refreshments, training

FOR  HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

We are looking for warm and friendly volunteers to welcome visitors to our Visitor Centre (in our newly renovated Victorian Coach House). This role will welcome and introduce visitors to the park, as well as supporting the visitor services staff behind the desk at reception, covering lunch times and meetings. As you will be the “face of Staunton”, you will need to have a willingness to learn about our park, including its landscape, history, and facilities and be patient, friendly and polite to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Time commitment one 3 hour shift weekly or two-weekly, ongoing. Email scpch@hants.gov.uk to find out more.

JOB   GUIDED WALK LEADER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  STAUNTON COUNTRY PARK, HAVANT

PAY  Parking, refreshments, training

FOR  HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

Do you like walking and the outdoors? Do you have an interest in either history/heritage or flora and fauna? We are looking for enthusiastic walkers keen to bring Staunton Country Park to life in a fun and interactive way. We run a combination of guided heritage and wildlife tours and we would love new Guided Walk Leaders to join the team! It is desirable to have some experience or a specific interest in the subjects related to this role, however, relevant experience could be gained by supporting other tour guides, as part of initial training. Email scpch@hants.gov.uk to find out more.

JOB   GARDENING GROUP VOLUNTEER

BE4  01/09/22

LOC  STAUNTON COUNTRY PARK, HAVANT

PAY  Parking, refreshments, training

FOR  HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

Would you like to spend some time outside, carry out some gardening tasks and help us take care of beds around the park? Typical tasks will include weeding, mulching, watering, and preparing beds and planting. Some basic gardening skills would be useful, but are not essential, as direction can be given by staff and other volunteers in the group. Flexible time commitment. Email scpch@hants.gov.uk to find out more.

We are looking for 50 volunteers to help make London greener, healthier and wilder - you’ll join a network of 100+ inspiring and knowledgeable Rangers, have the space to create something new and learn new skills to influence and involve people. More details at www.nationalparkcity.london/rangers

Energy Garden supports communities to maintain 26 gardens on railway stations across London. We are looking for volunteers to take part in regular sessions to beautify these trackside spaces. Join us for our Spring Kickoff to get a flavour of volunteering at Energy Garden: energygarden.org.uk/spring-signup. No experience necessary, all welcome.

Gain experience in various practical woodland management tasks plus wildlife surveys at Hazel Hill Wood, near Salisbury, Wiltshire. Tasks include ride and glade maintenance, tree thinning and hedgelaying. Contact charley@hazelhill.org.uk 07519 464023 hazelhill.org.uk/volunteer

 
Join Forestry England as a Bike Trail Maintenance Volunteer on 4th Wednesday of each month, starting in April 2022 at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest. Looking to recruit dedicated volunteers to support team with maintenance of the cycling trails and associated facilities. Please email Dan Jennings, Recreation Ranger at dan.jennings@forestryengland.uk Induction day on 23rd March 2022

Hampshire Conservation Volunteers work at weekends on a wide variety of sites. Spring and summer are for construction tasks, while autumn may include some pond maintenance. Winter tasks include coppicing, hedgelaying and scrub-bashing, usually with a roaring bonfire. Duke of Edinburgh award participants are welcome. Contact: mail@hcv.org.uk

Weekly seasonal, practical countryside volunteering task days with our great conservation crew, inc carpentry sessions at our Horton Country Park, Epsom workshop. Volunteer tasks run on Tues, Weds & Thurs across North Surrey & Kingston areas. email: mole.project@surreycc.gov.uk; tel 01372 743783. Info: http://www.surreycc.gov.uk/surreycountrysidepartnerships;

Weekly seasonal, practical countryside volunteering task days with our great conservation crew. Tasks run Tues, Weds & Thurs across NE Surrey, Croydon & Sutton areas and Mons & 1 Sun/month at the SWCA (Sanderstead). Also @Downygrazers voluntary livestock checker & farm helper opportunities. Info: http://www.surreycc.gov.uk/surreycountrysidepartnerships; email: downlands@surreycc.gov.uk; tel 01883 341140.

South West:

We manage chalk grassland, wetland and shingle habitats from Dover Districts to Romney Marsh and the award-winning Samphire Hoe. We have daily volunteer tasks throughout the year, but also volunteer positions doing livestock lookering, site rangers, office volunteers, wildlife surveys and event helpers. Contact: wccp@dover.gov.uk for more details.

Could you help our Schools on Reserves programme, supporting sessions for students on RSPB Ham Wall and Shapwick Heath? Volunteer in a small team, making a difference to the lives of young people in the local area and the nature living around them. Contact us at ham.wall@rspb.org.uk for more info.

We are looking for volunteers to help run the popular and friendly takeaway café on our RSPB Ham Wall nature reserve. Meet new people, help raise vital funds for nature recovery and gain valuable experience. Contact us at ham.wall@rspb.org.uk to express interest or for more info.

Love muddy boots and lungfuls of fresh air? Join us as a countryside volunteer in the great outdoors. No day is the same, with tasks of strimming the coastal path, replacing steps and installing benches combined with learning new skills like coppicing and orchard pruning. Contact: National Trust, East Devon Countryside, Ollie 01297 680507, ollie.jones@nationaltrust.org.uk

Join the landscape scale conservation project run by East Shallowford Farm in the heart of Dartmoor to protect the Marsh Fritillary Butterfly, one of the UK’s fastest declining species. There will be many opportunities available from scrub clearance to survey training. To find out more email ellie@shallowfordfarm.co.uk. All are welcome!

EuCAN Dorset Midweek Volunteers  - A Not-For-Profit CIC engaged in a variety of practical tasks (including hedgelaying, drystone walling, fencing, heathland restoration, habitat management and invasive species) on NNRs and SSSI's within Dorset’s AONB, and occasionally just beyond. Operated by volunteers for volunteers, we fund machinery and other courses where possible. Check for detailed worksite information on the link or or phone 07763 923545 eucan.dmv@gmail.com c-js.info/3g2WymU

JOB  WALKS LEADER AND FAMILY EVENTS VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  RSPB HAM WALL, MEARE NR. GLASTONBURY, SOMERSET BA6 9SX

PAY  Opportunity to learn new things and gain skills

FOR  RSPB

We are looking for volunteers who can lead walks, events and activities and talk to the public about the work of the RSPB, what we're all about and asking them if they would like to become members if the conversation takes you there. As a walks leader volunteer, you will share your knowledge of the wildlife spectacles at Ham Wall with a range of audiences with varying levels of knowledge. The days and times of these events will vary throughout the year. For this role the most important skill required will be your people skills. We are looking for someone who enjoys meeting new people and is a confident communicator, with an ability to adapt your communication style to the audience you are talking to, from families with children to adults. This is a rewarding role which offers the opportunity to work alongside a friendly team. You will have the opportunity to make new friends and spend time outdoors. By working on a reserve, you'll naturally learn all about the work of the RSPB and how we manage the wildlife on our reserves, work in partnership with others and advocate to governments. For more info visit: https://volunteer.rspb.org.uk/opportunities or contact Becky Smith on ham.wall@rspb.org.uk, 01458 860494.

JOB   VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  ESCOT PARK, OTTERY ST MARY

PAY  0

FOR  WILDWOOD ESCOT

At Wildwood Escot in Devon, we thrive through generous volunteers donating their time and talents. We have a wide variety of opportunities including regular positions for individual volunteers, college work placements, university internships and special event days more suited to teams. We are looking for enthusiastic and friendly individuals who are happy to be outside in all weather conditions. Volunteers are welcome to apply to help in various areas of Escot within various teams such as the keeper team, education team, maintenance team and gardening team. We also have fantastic opportunities on various projects such as our wetland restoration project, our Anglo Saxon village experience, seasonal events and our gardening for wildlife project. Find out more from Charlotte Mead on charlotte.mead@wildwoodtrust.org.

JOB   NATURE CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER
DEL  01/09/22
LOC  DOVER/FOLKESTONE/ROMNEY MARSH
PAY  0
FOR  WHITE CLIFFS COUNTRYSIDE PARTNERSHIP
Join our weekly volunteer tasks helping the nature, coast and countryside around the Dover and Folkestone Heritage coasts, chalk downland, river Dour, Greatstone Dunes, Dungeness National Nature Reserve and many more! You will join a friendly group of local volunteers and at the same time gain experience in all aspects of countryside management, including wildlife surveys and livestock checking. You can also get involved with wildlife surveying. No experience necessary – just enthusiasm. Please email us on wccp@dover.gov.uk or call us on 01304 241806 for more information.
 

JOB   CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  SHARPHAM, DEVON

PAY  Expenses

FOR  THE SHARPHAM TRUST

To assist in the restoration of the Sharpham home farm parkland. The role will include maintenance or building of fencing and tree guards, creating wildlife habitats including building and erecting bird boxes on the Sharpham Estate, under the direction of the Wild for People Ranger. Main tasks/activities: To help with tree planting To help with building tree guards To work on improving wildlife habitats and landscape on the Estate. To assist in other ad-hoc duties and projects relevant to the role including preparing for events at Sharpham. Time: twice per month minimum. Please contact Lucy Bell, volunteer@sharphamtrust.org 01803731802.
 

JOB   RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  MAGDALEN FARM, WINSHAM, CHARD, SOMERSET

PAY  Accom. incl meals & training

FOR  MAGDALEN ENVIRONMENTAL TRUST

A 132 acre organic educational & therapeutic centre that welcomes c. 4,500 visitors of all ages & abilities in a residential & day visit capacity. For the last 25 years we have engaged with & educated visitors using nature & the farming environment as our resource; it is fun, inspirational & innovative. Most of the help required is horticultural. There is also animal care which involves feeding up & putting our lovely poultry to bed! We always have the need for help with conservation & construction such as building wooden bridges. Time: 3 weeks to 2 months. Experience and interest in horticulture is essential and we hope that you have a passion for and experience in looking after animals. We will teach some animal care skills, seasonal horticultural skills & organic vegetable growing. As we are in a rural setting & not a community you will need to be fairly self-sufficient & being sociable is really important too. Self-motivated, enthusiastic, committed & willing to get involved. Contact rebecca@magdalenfarm.org.uk to request a volunteer application pack.

JOB   RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTEER, WARDEN TEAM

BE4  21/03/22

LOC  DORSET

PAY  Accommodation

FOR  RSPB

If you enjoy being outdoors, meeting new people and hands on conservation work, then this role could be the perfect opportunity for you. Volunteering with the RSPB’s Dorset team you will be contributing to nature conservation across nine reserves managing coppice woodlands, reedbed, heathland, wet grassland and more for a huge host of wildlife including Dartford warbler, marsh harrier, dormouse and smooth snake. During this long-term (6-12 months) practical placement you will undertake practical habitat management tasks: Cutting and clearing vegetation. Infrastructure maintenance on fences and gates. Creating and maintaining visitor infrastructure such as paths and benches. Species surveying, such as hen harrier roost counts. Maintaining and managing tools, equipment and machinery. Following work plans. Following Health and Safety protocols. Accommodation provided at Arne nature reserve (5 miles from Wareham train station). Car or bicycle useful. Ages 18+. Please contact: Hollymay, Warden 07730029158 hollymay.gladwin@rspb.org.uk

JOB   LONG-TERM PRIMATE CARE VOLUNTEERING PLACEMENT

BE4  13/03/22

LOC  LOOE, CORNWALL PL13 1NZ

PAY  Accommodation, food and training

FOR  WILD FUTURES’ MONKEY SANCTUARY

This one-year long post is an exciting opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, working alongside an experienced team, with the chance to earn a recommendation from a highly respected primate sanctuary. All of which are assets to anyone passionate about pursuing a career in animal welfare and conservation. You will need to meet the European Solidarity Corps requirements. Selected candidates will be invited to visit the Sanctuary and be formally interviewed for this position. The Sanctuary is open to the public for six months of the year. You will need to learn about the monkeys and the ethos of the Sanctuary sufficiently, so you can talk to and educate visitors and run workshops. You will be expected to work five full days a week and to be flexible about your days off. You will have an allowance of thirty days annual leave. Applicants must be UK or EU residents or have permission to work in the UK. Interviews will be held as applications come in, so early applications are encouraged. Wild Futures reserves the right to bring the application deadline forward if the right candidate is found. Please send a cover letter to kim_nicholson@wildfutures.org to receive an application form.

JOB   PRIMATE VOLUNTEER

DEL  01/09/22

LOC  LOOE, CORNWALL

PAY  Travel, food, accom & pocket money

FOR  WILD FUTURES

Wild Futures Monkey Sanctuary rescue and rehabilitate primates from the UK pet trade. We are offering 2 and 4 week funded, live-in placements if you meet the European Solidarity Corps requirements (are aged between 18 and 30, do not need the placement as part of a university/college course and haven’t previously completed an ESC placement). The role includes daily cleaning of monkey enclosures, tasks such as food preparation and making enrichment items as well as any re-roping enclosures, adding wood chip to outdoor spaces, gardening, painting and cleaning. Assisting in the café can also happen when we are open to the public. Volunteers will receive weekly education talks by staff members on our monkeys and their history, the organisation, anatomy etc. Days can be long and the work is often physically demanding so volunteers must be fit and able. Personal Protective Equipment will be supplied and certain Covid requirements apply. To find out more please contact volunteer@wildfutures.org.

National:

Bat numbers in the UK have declined dramatically over the last century. You can help to monitor the UK's bats by taking part in our surveys and observing these fascinating mammals in your local area. Anyone can take part, from beginners to experts. www.bats.org.uk/nbmp

The RSPB Residential Volunteering Scheme offers places at 48 reserves in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. If you are interested in the environment this is an ideal opportunity to help with our conservation work and gain practical or people engagement experience. For more information, please visit our website https://volunteer.rspb.org.uk/residential-opportunities

WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) is all about helping out at ecologically-minded sites (smallholdings, crofts, woodlands, green-builds etc.) in return for food, accommodation and learning. It’s a great way to meet like-minded souls, reconnect with the earth and learn about growing food and low-impact ways of living www.wwoof.org.uk

The Sea Watch Foundation is seeking National Whale and Dolphin Watch Assistants for the 2022 season. The chosen assistant/s can work on-site or remotely, part-time or full-time. Visit https://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/nwdw/ for information about the event. To view the 2021 National Whale & Dolphin Watch Report, go to: https://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/nwdw-reports/. Contact: chiara.giulia.bertulli@seawatchfoundation.org.uk.

What effect has recent weather had on wildlife? Does climate change affect timings in nature? Take part in the Nature’s Calendar citizen science project and help scientists discover answers to these questions. Simply look out for the signs of seasonal changes near you and record at: naturescalendar.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Community Empowerment in Green Spaces

We are pleased to be able to report that the movement of over 7,000 local greenspace Friends Groups throughout the UK continues to grow and become ever more vital for the current and future maintenance, management and protection of our vital public green spaces. This is in the face of having to deal with the challenges of continuing greenspace budget cuts and the current devastating pandemic. As the democratic voice of this inspirational grassroots movement of tens of thousands of volunteers, the NFPGS is committed to ensuring that those who love and champion their local greenspace get the recognition they so richly deserve*. To that end we have some very important news to be shared.

In January we:

• published our new and pathbreaking 'Better Friends' NFPGS report - a detailed nuts-and-bolts analysis of the activities, character, needs and influence of Friends. Read here 
• published a new 'Benefits of Friends Groups' Infographic showcasing the immense value Friends Groups bring to green spaces and local communities. See here  
• upgraded our parkscommunity.org.uk online presence and support for grassroots activists
• circulated the new 'State of UK Public Parks' report (by the Association for Public service Excellence) on the effects, implications and challenges due to the deepening financial and staffing crisis being imposed by years of Government cuts to Local Authority budgets for local public services: Read the report here

We send our thanks and admiration to all those who care passionately about greenspace, and are doing their best to ensure that such crucial facilities for all communities are properly championed and looked after. We look forward to continuing to work together with you all throughout 2022.

Best wishes for the coming year

Dave Morris
Chair, National Federation of Parks and Green Spaces

* The NFPGS is unfunded and entirely reliant on volunteers and donations. If you wish to support our work, please give generously here: https://www.justgiving.com/nfpgs
 
PLEASE CHECK OUT THESE VERY IMPORTANT REPORTS AND RESOURCES

Better Friends - The State of the Movement of Greenspace Friends Groups throughout the UK
This pathbreaking and important report, produced by the Parks Community UK (PCUK) team of the NFPGS, analyses in depth what Friends Groups do, how they do it (through the efforts of approx 60,000 activists), their memberships (around 840,000 people), their groups' character, needs, partnerships and successes. It is based on the statistics emanating from the parkscommunity.org.uk Better Friends strength checker - a state-of-the-art audit tool freely available to all local greenspace community groups. The report turns a spotlight on the ever-evolving influence of an inspirational grassroots movement now central to the future of the UK's public green spaces.

Benefits of Friends Groups for Parks and Green Spaces - a poster/infographic
https://natfedparks.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/NFPGS-PCUK-Benefits-of-Friends-Groups-Infographic-2.pdf [Mobile friendly version]
https://natfedparks.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/NFPGS-PCUK-Benefits-of-Friends-Groups-A4-Infographic.pdf [A4, printable version]
The benefits of having an active Friends Group for each of the UK's 27,000 green spaces are profound and unique. This new infographic explains the value of such groups for the greenspace itself, for its managers, for the volunteers involved, and for the wider local community. Feel free to use, circulate or print out!

The parkscommunity.org.uk website/platform is re-launched
Please check out the revamped Parks Community UK website. Its a free online knowledge hub for all Friends of parks and green space community groups created by and for the movement, as coordinated by the NFPGS. Its aim is to 'help UK Friends Groups thrive'. These groups play a vital role to ensure our parks and green spaces become and remain well-run and welcoming. The website's role is to celebrate, support and help empower these community volunteers to be effective and resilient. Wondering where to start? Take a look at the most popular pages:
- Case Studies: https://parkscommunity.org.uk/case-studies/
- Advice Guides: https://parkscommunity.org.uk/how-to-guides/

State of UK Public Parks 2021
A new report was published last week by the Association for Public Service Excellence, based on their survey of Local Authorities throughout the UK. It finds that our local parks have lost £690 million in funding over the past decade - and it calls for serious additional Government investment. It also notes the continued growth and importance of the Friends Groups movement and volunteers, references our own new 'Better Friends' report, and includes a quote from the Chair of the National Federation of Parks and Green Spaces: " The Friends Groups movement, with now over 7,000 local groups throughout the UK, continues to grow, helping to promote and bring to life, maintain, protect and fundraise for our green spaces. However, these passionate and dedicated volunteers face many challenges of their own (not least during the pandemic) and must be actively supported rather than taken for granted. The added value they bring needs to be backed up by well-staffed and well-resourced parks teams. The Government needs to match the public's love for and commitment to their local green spaces by ensuring that adequate funding is provided to maintain and sustain such essential public infrastructure both for current and for future generations."

National Federation of Parks and Green Spaces
www.natfedparks.org.uk @NatFedParks
www.parkscommunity.org.uk @ParksCommUK

International:

An exciting opportunity to volunteer with an award-winning NGO, working alongside conservation experts on a variety of cutting-edge projects. Volunteers will be able to experience the wonders of Madagascar’s biodiversity, whilst contributing to sustainable change and having a positive impact on the local community and environment. Read more: https://madagascar.co.uk/volunteer

TITLE  CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER

DATE  4 schemes a year in January, April, July and October (10 weeks long)

BASE  SAINTE LUCE, ANOSY, MADAGASCAR

COST  Donation fees start from £795 for 2 weeks

WITH  SEED MADAGASCAR

An exciting opportunity to volunteer with an award-winning NGO, working alongside conservation experts on a variety of cutting-edge projects. Volunteers will be able to experience the wonders of Madagascar’s biodiversity, whilst contributing to sustainable change and having a positive impact on the local community and environment. Choose to join our team for 2-10 weeks. All volunteers must be over 18 and complete an application form. Please contact info@seedmadagascar.org or https://madagascar.co.uk/volunteer

The CJS Team would like to thank everyone who has contributed adverts, articles and information for this CJS Focus publication.

Next edition will feature Employability, published on 23 May 2022.

Details believed correct but given without prejudice, Ends.