Community Volunteer (RSPB Rep - Planning Networks for Nature)
Why we need you
Nature is in crisis with a key pressure coming from development. Communities are worried that local wildlife is under threat and there is growing desire to challenge the planning system to protect our wild places.
However, without support many do not have the confidence to get involved. The Planning Networks for Nature project provides that support via online groups where knowledge can be shared, and passion and resources combined. Conservation organisations and community members will be able to work together to build a network of empowered local activists.
We are piloting this approach in Kent and Sussex, the networks have been live and public for around 8 months so this is an exciting time for developing and building this project.
What will you be doing?
We are looking for people who will act as representatives of RSPB in the groups. You will login in at regular intervals throughout your shift to:
- Answer, triage or signpost queries that are directed to RSPB via the hubs
- Provide information and advice on birds and other topics related to the work of the RSPB
- Sharing updates on planning casework that the RSPB is involved with.
- Create and edit texts providing information relevant to people engaging with the planning system
There will also be additional opportunities to create content and design promotional material.
What’s in it for you?
This is a unique opportunity to be part of a team helping members of the community to come together to protect nature in their local area. You’ll get a real insight into how conservation organisations work whilst connecting with like-minded people.
This opportunity is also suitable for anyone developing the skills and knowledge for a career in conservation or has an interest in planning and development.
It’s a flexible role that can be carried out from home and fitted around your existing commitments Ideally, we’d be looking for a day’s cover (agreed beforehand on a rota to suit your availability) once a week/fortnight. However, if you would like to commit more time opportunities will be available.
What skills are we looking for?
We’re looking for people with:
- Bird or other wildlife knowledge, especially in relation to planning and the needs of individual species
- Experience in using social media
- Ability to communicate well in writing
- A friendly and approachable manner with good interpersonal skills
- Diplomatic and able to represent RSPB’s views in a professional way at all times
Due to the legal requirements of group membership, candidates must be 18 years or older.
A full induction to the project will be given including online training sessions about the role and how the groups work.
It would be preferable (but not required) for applicants to live within the counties of Kent or Sussex, as local knowledge of campaign groups and communities is really valuable.
So, if this is you, and you want to make a difference, come and help us pool our resources and expertise, maximise our influence and save more nature!
Thank you for reading this role description. Clicking on ‘more about this role’ and the downloadable pdf will give you just the generic role profile for this opportunity. A role profile is the family to which an opportunity belongs and informs vetting and training requirements and may not be an exact fit to the role described above.