Visitor Engagement Volunteer (On Reserves) (Volunteer Ranger Fairburn Ings)

We need volunteers to help us to enhance the enjoyment of Fairburn Ings for all our visitors, whatever their age, background level of experience and knowledge of nature or reason for visiting. We are particularly looking for more Volunteer Rangers for Sundays, but please do apply if you are interested in volunteering on any day of the week.

As a Volunteer Ranger your role will include: -Spending time out on site, talking to all types of visitors, ensuring they have the information that they need to enjoy their visit. Helping and encouraging visitors less experienced in bird and wildlife watching, as well as engaging with more experienced visitors to discuss their findings and share information. To be comfortable discussing how the public can support the RSPB, including giving basic information about membership and volunteering wiht us. Where appropriate and safe to do so, provide guidance on proper use of the site to visitors with the support of RSPB staff. Monitor the site for any issues and report them to staff when needed. If you are happy to, assist the Visitor Experience Team to deliver visitor activities, guided walks, and events. Ensuring that we maintain a high standard of visitor facilities around the wider site, such as making sure that notices and signs are well presented and clean, litter picking etc. Keep bird feeders clean and topped up.

You will need to be able to positively interact with people of all ages and backgrounds and be approachable and friendly with good people skills and an outgoing personality. You will have confidence and be happy to initiate positive conversations with visitors about key areas, such as the work of the RSPB and how they can support us. You will have a natural enthusiasm for nature and for inspiring people. You don't need to be a wildlife or bird expert, although some basic knowledge of the wildlife on the reserve would be an advantage.

Unfortunately this role is unsuitable for under 18’s volunteering alone, however you are welcome to do this role if accompanied by a family member who is over 18.

This is a really rewarding and enjoyable role. You will be working with a friendly team on a beautiful nature reserve, have the opportunity to make new friends and spend time outdoors. You will get to meet lots of new people, enjoy conversations and help people have a wonderful visit.

You can claim your travel expenses when volunteering, and you will be provided with a uniform and all the resources and training you need to undertake your role. You will have opportunities to learn new things and gain new skills and to learn about our reserves and the wildlife that is found here. You will need to undertake some essential online training, either at home or on site and you will be supported by a line manager and have lots of opportunity to discuss your role with them.

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