Visitor Engagement Volunteer (On Reserves) (Mersehead)

The RSPB manages a big network of nature reserves which are havens for wildlife, and importantly very special places for people of all ages and abilities to visit and experience a nature rich landscape.

Nature is in trouble, there aren't many places left where wildlife can thrive, that is why we want to welcome more people to these places.

We are looking for volunteers who can help with all our visitor engagement activities, from welcoming people on arrival, to leading events and activities. Our events and activities are aimed at all age ranges from toddlers to families, new to nature and those who are already nature lovers.

As a Visitor Experience Volunteer the tasks you will undertake will depend on which reserve you're working on, but 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 café is or where they can see wildlife.
• 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.
• Potential to work offsite with our Community Engagement Officer, when opportunities arise.
• Option to help deliver events and activities, including setting up and clearing away afterwards.
• Option to assist in creation of promotional resources (e.g. event posters) and/or interpretation.

There will be opportunities to undertake additional tasks and projects when time allows.

Full training and support will be provided for this role but you do need to be a ‘people person’ and have good communication skills. Working in the visitor centre and on events will require the completion of training modules (e.g. food hygiene, safeguarding, data protection and information security).

This is a really rewarding and enjoyable role. You will be working with a friendly team on a beautiful nature reserve, you will have the opportunity to make new friends and spend time outdoors. You will get to meet loads of new people in this role, enjoying conversation and helping people have a wonderful visit.

There is always the opportunity to learn new things and gain skills through volunteering, by working on a reserve, you'll naturally learn all about how nature reserves are managed and the wildlife that is found there.

Some aspects of this role will involve working alone at times.

Out-of-pocket travel expenses can be reimbursed (for travel up to a 25-miles from the reserve).

This role is only suitable for under 18’s or vulnerable adults that are accompanied by a responsible adult/carer during work periods. Individuals will be expected to work unsupervised in their role for much of the time.

Please get in touch to find out more. Contact:

Calum Murray RSPB Mersehead nature reserve Tel: 07825 119337 Email: calum.muray@rspb.org.uk