Do something different
Residential volunteering on RSPB nature reserves 2015
We are delighted...
“As a result of the experience I’ve had and skills I’ve developed during the residential internship, I have been able to get a job with the RSPB.” Beki Williams, Northern England Volunteer Intern
...that you are considering becoming an RSPB Residential Volunteer. We hope this brochure will inspire you to join us and help give nature a home.
Contents 4
Join the team
5
An intern’s story Alan Kell
6
Your questions answered
8
Where would you like to go? Reserve map –
9
England
12 Y our words Tom Broadhurst
If you are one of our regular residential volunteers, hello again! It’s wonderful to have you as part of the team. Whether a newcomer or a seasoned volunteer, we can’t wait to welcome you to one of our amazing reserves or projects in 2015.
24 A Warden’s view Farnham and Hazeley Heaths
Are you 16 or over 75, or somewhere in between? With only a week or two to spare, or a bit longer? On your own or with a friend? Are you looking forward to a career in conservation and want to improve your skill set? In all these cases, we’ve definitely got something to offer. From practical conservation or showing people birds and other wildlife, we need your time and talents to help us. But don’t just take our word for it – another residential volunteer shares his experiences on page 12.
Northern 26
And to get another view, turn to page 24 where one of our wardens tells about life on a nature reserve and the fantastic contribution volunteers make. As you look through the brochure, you’ll read lots of quotes from our 2014 residential volunteers. More than 700 brilliant people took up placements on our reserves last year. That’s equivalent to 60 extra full-time members of staff, carrying out vital conservation work, welcoming visitors to our reserves, and sharing our passion for nature – and our mission to save it. Half of those 700 are young people (and some not so young!) volunteering with us for six months or more, building up their knowledge and expertise, to climb the first rung of the conservation ladder. You can find out what one of our volunteer interns thought of his placement on page 5. He, and others like him, are the wardens of the future. The remaining 350 residential volunteers from last year are a hugely diverse bunch. All ages, from every walk of life – people just like you. All of them enjoy nature and are prepared to devote their time and energy towards preserving it for future generations.
Ireland
28 Scotland 37 Wales 40 More questions answered 43 Further information 43 Homes for newts on Ramsey 4 How to make 4 a booking 46 Nearer to home: contact details
By helping out on RSPB reserves, you are at the forefront of giving nature a home – thank you.
So what are you waiting for? Do something different today!
Kate Tycer
Residential Volunteering Development Officer
Jane Shah
2
Residential Volunteering Co-ordinator
Oystercatchers at Leighton Moss
3
Join the team
An intern’s story
The RSPB Residential Volunteering Scheme began in the late 1970s, and now, after more than 30 years, we offer places at 42 sites in England, Scotland and Wales.
work, gain practical or people engagement work experience, meet new people, explore new areas, enjoy a working holiday or simply make good use of your spare time, whilst keeping fit in the great outdoors.
If you are interested in nature and the environment, this is an ideal opportunity to help our conservation
For more information about our work or joining the RSPB, please contact us (details are on the back cover).
Find out more at rspb.org.uk We aim to make sure our residential volunteers:
• feel welcome • understand what the RSPB is and does • are part of the team and included in appropriate social events • receive appropriate training and supervision • know who they can talk to if there are problems or difficulties • are properly valued – and thanked • know who they are answerable to • receive regular and constructive feedback • have safe working conditions • have adequate insurance cover • are taken seriously • can say “no” to unreasonable requests • have an acceptable standard of accommodation.
We ask our volunteers to: • extend to your fellow volunteers and staff the same degree of courtesy you would expect to receive • adhere to the RSPB’s rules, procedures and standards, including health and safety and equal opportunities • be reliable and responsible – you are acting as representatives of the RSPB • respect confidentiality • inform us immediately if you have to cancel a booking or will be arriving late • carry out the agreed work • give constructive feedback if appropriate • be accountable and accept constructive feedback • take part in relevant training • ask for support if you need it • keep accommodation in a clean, safe and tidy state.
Landmark 10,000th residential booking The first residential volunteer booking made on our Volunteer Management System (VMS) was in November 2003. There was great excitement when, in the summer of 2014, we processed our 10,000th! Thank you to all those committed volunteers past and present – it is an amazing achievement that you have made 10,000 individual contributions to making homes for nature on our reserves. The 2014 Osprey team of Jen, Rachel, Chris, Jenna and Lizzie who are all previous long-term volunteers for the RSPB.
4
Me, drive a tractor! Alan Kell tells us about his first steps to a career in conservation. “After finishing university and taking some time out travelling around the world, I decided it was probably time to look to the future and to getting a job. But where to start?
“The training offered through the internship was brilliant and allowed me to become adept at using a range of equipment. If asked a year ago I would have laughed at the thought of me driving a tractor, but now if it’s not a tractor it may be an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) or operating a chainsaw to remove willow, all of which now seem very normal.
“I didn’t want to just do anything, I wanted to do something that I enjoyed and felt passionate about! Conservation offered the answer, but without experience I knew I would struggle to find a job.
“I absolutely loved my time at Dungeness. All the staff and volunteers I worked alongside and met were great fun and very encouraging and helpful. Undertaking such a diverse range of work in a place as beautiful as Dungeness was an experience I certainly won’t forget.
“The RSPB voluntary internship has provided me with the perfect opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience of working on a truly spectacular and unique nature reserve at Dungeness in Kent. The diversity of the work involved meant that every day was different, from estate management work, such as fencing and strimming, to helping run family events on the reserve, offering plenty of opportunities to learn and develop in different areas.
“I would fully recommend anyone hoping to start a similar career in conservation to consider undertaking this scheme as the knowledge and skills you come out with could help you land that dream job.”
“Prior to starting with the RSPB, it’s safe to say my bird knowledge consisted of blackbird, robin and magpie. Now I can undertake an array of surveys, including rising with the sun to do breeding bird surveys or working under the stars searching for great crested newts and medicinal leeches. “Before doing this placement, I constantly heard that you get out of this experience what you put in and this has certainly proved to be true. By getting stuck in with plenty of enthusiasm and taking advantage of working alongside an experienced team of staff (many of whom started as volunteers themselves) I’ve developed my own skills. I learnt how the unique range of habitats at Dungeness – from shingle to reedbed – are managed and, equally as important, the reasoning behind the techniques used.
Alan gets to grip with a strimmer. Alan is now assistant warden for Dungeness and Lydden Valley
5
Your questions answered What do residential volunteers do?
The work varies from reserve to reserve. It often includes practical management tasks, working with visitors and helping with survey work. Here are some examples: • cutting, clearing and burning dead vegetation • directing visitors to points of interest and showing them wildlife • counting rare butterflies • staffing visitor centres • managing livestock • general chores, eg litter picking, visitor centre cleaning. Please note that the RSPB is not a bird or animal welfare organisation. We do not have the expertise or facilities to cater for sick birds, so you will not be involved in work of this kind.
Who can take part?
Anyone aged 16 or over is eligible to take part, although some reserves can only accept over 18s. We can accommodate couples on some reserves, provided that both are participating. Each person should complete a separate application form. These applications should be sent in as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Look for the symbol for the reserves suitable for couples. Practical management tasks are important aspects of the RSPB’s work on most sites and this can be physically demanding, although you will only be expected to undertake tasks within your capabilities. Visitor work that does not need a high level of physical fitness is also available, especially from March to September. We ask that you take any essential medication with you and, on arrival, inform the warden of the details. Include details of any medication you take on your booking form. This information is kept strictly confidential.
The RSPB is committed to equal opportunities. We believe that volunteering should be open to all, regardless of marital status, gender, race, age, colour, sexual orientation, religion, politics, nationality or disability. We will do everything reasonably practical to make volunteering available to everybody and to conform to all relevant legislation. Volunteers with a disability are welcome, but please bear in mind that there are limitations at some reserves, owing to the nature of the accommodation and type of work. Please contact Kate or Jane in the Volunteering Development Department (see page 46) for more information about the most suitable sites. Students seeking work placements should also contact Kate or Jane for advice. Well before your stay, please provide details of any project work that you need to complete, together with any paperwork required by your placement officer. Please note: we do not enter into contracts with or on behalf of our volunteers.
Do I need any special skills or experience?
You will not need special skills for most of the volunteering opportunities we have. However, some reserves need volunteers who have good bird identification skills and these are noted in the reserve details in this brochure. A genuine interest in and enthusiasm for birds and wildlife conservation is essential. You should be willing to help, even with mundane jobs. At reserves where the work includes helping visitors, you must feel comfortable talking to people. Volunteers from overseas must have good conversational English. Long-term placements usually require a driving licence so that you can drive RSPB vehicles.
Is there any charge to take part?
At most sites you need to bring your own pillowcase and sheets/duvet cover, or a sleeping bag. Pillows, duvets and blankets will be provided. Most, but not all, reserves have items such as a washing machine, TV, microwave, iron, etc. However, TV reception is a problem on a few sites and an internet connection is a rarity. Reserve details containing all this information will be sent to you along with your booking confirmation. Please note, all our bedrooms are single sex. We do not put men and women in the same bedroom unless they are partners or related. If you are booking with someone else and wish to share a room with them, please indicate this on the booking form. We will do our best to accommodate your wishes, but this is not always possible.
Where will I be staying?
We can’t guarantee whether or not anyone else will be volunteering during your stay, or tell you the gender of other volunteers. It’s possible that you will be staying alone in a remote location. Please consider this when choosing a nature reserve.
There is no charge to take part in the scheme. However, a suggested donation of £25 towards our administration costs would enable more to be spent on our vital conservation work. It is your responsibility to cover the cost of your transport to and from the reserve, and to provide and cover the cost of your food during your stay. The RSPB will provide accommodation, together with basic services, free of charge for the period you are volunteering, and cover any expenses incurred as a necessary part of your work on the reserve. Any out-of-pocket expenses must be agreed with the reserve warden in advance.
Accommodation varies from reserve to reserve, but we aim for it to be safe and clean and to meet basic standards. We provide a cooker, cooking utensils, cutlery, crockery, a fridge and food storage at all reserves. You are expected to provide and cook all your own food. Unless told otherwise, please take provisions for at least two days: you will be able to obtain further supplies locally. Not all accommodation has central heating – some may have an open fire or wood-burning stove instead.
Please note: pets are not allowed on RSPB reserves, or in the volunteer accommodation. All buildings, vehicles and accommodation are non-smoking. More FAQs can be found on pages 40–42.
Key
On the following pages you will find a guide to all our reserve placements. Each entry will have a combination of the following symbols, to help you compare the placements and decide which is best for you. ST1 Short-term/long-term LT4 placement and minimum
16+
stay in weeks.
Research, surveying and species protection work. Good bird ID required at some locations at certain times of the year.
Practical estate maintenance, and habitat and species management work. Livestock farm work at some locations.
Internship place(s) available. See page 41 for details.
People engagement work – membership recruitment, guided walks, shop/café work and showing people wildlife.
Minimum age.
Suitable for couples.
RSPB Geltsdale nature reserve
6
7 7
Residential volunteering in
Where would you like to go?
England
Sumburgh Head
Shetland
Orkney
Onziebust and Trumland
Hoy
Western Isles Forsinard Flows
North Scotland Loch of Strathbeg Abernethy and Osprey Project Insh Marshes
East Scotland
Loch Leven
Oronsay Loch Gruinart
South and West Scotland
Rathlin
Mersehead
Portmore Lough
Mull of Galloway
Coquet Island
Geltsdale
Northern England
Saltholme
Haweswater Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay
Bempton Cliffs
Fairburn Ings Dearne Valley
Blacktoft Sands
South Stack
Coombes Valley Lake Vyrnwy
Titchwell Marsh
Frampton Marsh Mid Yare Valley
Midlands
Ynys-hir
Ramsey Island
Minsmere
Eastern England
Symonds Yat Old Hall Marshes Surrey and Hampshire Heaths West Sedgemoor Aylesbeare Common
South West England
South East England
North Kent Marshes Dungeness
“Not only have the volunteer interns become essential for the management of these reserves, they have dramatically improved the quality of new staff members coming through the system. In the last year or so, five have all progressed from the scheme into RSPB jobs!� Alan Johnson, Area Manager, Kent
Arne
Exe Estuary
8
Water vole
9
England Aylesbeare Common Exeter, Devon What?
his area of heathland is one of the largest outside of the T New Forest and its geology makes it unique in Britain. It is nationally important for its populations of Dartford warblers and nightjars. There are also breeding stonechats and a wide range of both heathland and woodland bird species. It is part of the 1,100 hectares of the area known as the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths.
When?
hort-term: no placements available. S Long-term: three placements available all year.
England lT12
18+
Blacktoft Sands Whitgift, Humberside
Why?
Who?
his is the largest tidal reedbed in England, where 270 species T of bird have been recorded. In summer, the reserve is especially important for breeding marsh harriers, avocets, bearded tits and bitterns, while in spring and autumn the saline lagoons attract large numbers of migrant wading birds. In winter, good numbers of ducks and wading birds can be seen, as well as hen harriers and merlins. The reserve has up to 26,000 visitors a year, mostly between April and September.
When?
hort-term: placements for individuals, couples or a pair S of friends available all year. Long-term: one intern only.
Where? Railway station at Goole (8 miles/13 km from reserve).
A bus passes by the reserve entrance. Nearby, a modern, semi-detached house, with one single and one twin bedroom, houses the volunteers.
ractical habitat management work all year round, P estate work on paths and boundaries, survey work, guided walks and working with livestock/farm work in spring and summer. Winter work may be heavy and hard in all weathers, with much scrub clearance and tree-felling. Bracken eradication and stock work are major tasks during summer.
Why?
hysical land management work, estate maintenance, helping P visitors, species protection, reception duties and survey/research assistance. Some stock or farm work during summer.
Who?
Call Mike on 01405 704665.
Call Richard on 01395 233655.
Dartford warbler
Bempton Cliffs Bridlington, East Yorkshire
lT12
18+
Bearded tit
Coombes Valley Leek, Staffordshire
What? Spectacular 122 m (400 ft) chalk cliffs supporting England’s
largest seabird colony, with over 200,000 seabirds during the summer including guillemots, kittiwakes and puffins. The reserve is also home to the UK’s largest mainland gannetry. This is set against a backdrop of beautiful flower meadows showcasing large colonies of orchids and dense carpets of red campion.
When?
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: two placements available, April to July inclusive for seabird research. Mid-March to Christmas for people engagement work.
tunning oak woodland, with steep-sided valleys and a rocky S stream. A magical place at any time of year – from fly agaric toadstools to goldcrests, and purple hairstreak butterflies to red campion flowers. Coombes is a peaceful reserve with a visitor centre and several family-friendly trails.
When?
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: three interns only.
Where? Railway station at Macclesfield (17 miles/27 km from reserve). Buses are available infrequently to the market town of Leek 5 miles/8 km away. Car or bicycle useful. Accommodation is a converted farm building next to the reserve, with three single bedrooms.
from reserve). Local bus routes to Bempton village (1 mile/1.6 km from reserve). House in Bempton village, two single bedrooms and a double.
Why?
hysical management work for forestry operations involves P maintaining the rides. Estate work, including maintaining the nature trail, car park and picnic area and fencing, looking after paths and maintaining hedges, drains and ditches. Talking to visitors, assisting with guided walks and events. Helping with the education scheme if required, particularly in spring and summer. Survey work, especially in spring and summer. Occasionally moving cattle.
Who?
Call Jarrod on 01538 384017.
Why? Seabird research, monitoring populations and
breeding success throughout the colony, including Flamborough Head. Analysis and reporting using Excel, as well as habitat and estate maintenance. People engagement, membership recruitment, showing people birds and assisting at events.
Call Dave on 01262 422204 for seabird research. Call Ryan on 01262 422207 for people engagement.
Gannets at Bempton Cliffs
10
18+
What?
Where? Railway station at Bempton (1.5 miles/2.4 km
Who?
16+
What?
Where? Railway station at Exeter (8 miles/13 km from reserve). Regular bus route (52A or B). Car or bicycle useful. Accommodation is a rural cottage with one double and two single bedrooms, near to the reserve.
ST1
Bluebells at Coombes Valley
11
Your words
Volunteering at Haweswater Three winter months in the wettest corner of England, living in an isolated farm house with an ever-changing cast of flatmates, surrounded by malodorous sheep, with very limited internet and mobile phone reception, and no public transport... “Spending my days carrying, lifting, digging and hammering in all weathers sounded appealing, so I applied to become a conservation volunteer with the RSPB at Haweswater. “Having recently returned from living overseas, and needing an opportunity to recharge my batteries and gain some new practical skills, the chance to live for several weeks in a beautiful place and contribute to a genuine nature conservation project was precisely what I was looking for. The bigger picture of what the RSPB and landowners United Utilities are trying to achieve at Haweswater – developing a model of sustainable upland land management that seeks to enhance the environment, water quality and the local economy -– was right up my street. I arrived one showery February day at Naddle Farm and was soon inducted and briefed in health and safety by the RSPB Wardens Dave and Spike. I set to work helping my fellow volunteers, Amelie and Chris, to remove a broken wire fence in cold horizontal rain, and so began my volunteering adventure. “The three of us lived and worked together in February, alongside Assistant Warden Stephen, during which time we removed several hundred metres of old wire fencing, sheep-proofed much more, planted trees, re-potted Juniper seedlings, rebuilt damaged drystone walls, monitored red squirrel populations, and started the construction of some new gathering pens for the RSPB’s 1,150 sheep. Most of these activities were conducted in pouring rain or howling wind (at least that’s what it
12
England Coquet Island Amble, Northumberland
ST2
18+
What? Coquet Island, about one mile off Amble, Northumberland is Roseate tern
occupied by the RSPB in spring and summer. It is home to a large colony of nesting seabirds. It has the only UK colony of roseate terns and nesting Sandwich, Arctic and common terns. Placements fall outside the main breeding season, to minimise disturbance.
When? Short-term: one placement during March, April, August and September. Long-term: no placement available.
Where? Railway station at Alnmouth (6 miles/8 km from Amble harbour).
Lifts are available from the station, and buses run between Alnwick and Ashington, stopping at Amble (Monday to Saturday). We have a 4.7m rigid inflatable boat, moored at Amble Marina, and volunteers must be able to climb in and out of it, often in rough seas, and traverse very uneven and rocky terrain. There are two single bedrooms in the lighthouse keeper’s cottage. The kitchen and office are in the old engineers’ quarters to the rear.
Tom Broadhurst braves the wintry weather.
Note: there is no mains water. Drinking water is brought in bottles and tap water in canisters. There is a shower, but with limited water and 110v. Trips to the mainland are approximately once a week. Lighting is a 12v solar system with a 240v generator for charging laptops and phones. We cook on gas and heating is a log burner fed with driftwood.
felt like), and after years of office work my creaking body began to fall apart under the strain of physical activity. I pulled muscles in places previously unknown to science. Soothing words were offered, and I soldiered on.
Why? The work on Coquet is at the mercy of the tide, weather and light. Practical work involves grassland management, habitat restoration and creation, and infrastructure maintenance.
The first sunny day was 1 March – a memorable occasion marked by the joyful release to spring pasture of the pregnant ewes that over-wintered in covered sheep pens. The new-found warmth was too much for Amelie and Chris, who moved north to Scotland, whilst other volunteers arrived. Into March and April, green shoots began to emerge, insects appeared and migratory birds returned. With the sheep outdoors, this presented new comedic activities as we could all be seen rounding up lost or invading sheep. Two new volunteer activities began – the re-construction of the golden eagle hide and vegetation monitoring on the fells. By May, lambing was in full swing and the sheep pens were finished.
Who? Call Wesley on 07446 023412 or Paul on 07753 775230.
It was a pleasure to work outdoors in such beautiful surroundings. Evenings were long, the scenery was amazing, wildlife was all around us and the sheep looked happy – my work here was done. After four months (I had asked to stay an extra month) my volunteering here came to an end. I had survived blizzards, 1,000 sheep, made new friends, and learned new skills and I was leaving fitter, stronger and more relaxed than when I arrived. Thanks to all who made it happen!
Haweswater reserve
13
England Dearne Valley reserves
England lT12
18+
Barnsley, South Yorkshire
What? Old Moor is a wetland oasis in this former heartland of the mining
Jewel wasp
Dungeness Lydd, Kent
18+ What?
ile after mile of shingle! A unique landscape only interrupted M by natural and artificial ponds and reedbeds. Several species of bird occur here in nationally important numbers and it’s a great place to watch autumn migration. Recently, the short-haired bumblebee was reintroduced. There are trails, hides and a visitor centre and shop.
When?
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: two interns only.
Volunteers at Dungeness reserve
industry. Most of the volunteering work takes place here, but we also manage six other sites. The reserve is made up of wet grassland, open water, fen, reedbed and hay meadow. For such an urban site, we have an exceptional array of wildlife, with a great autumn and winter spectacle of waders and waterfowl. The site is important for breeding and migrating birds within the Dearne Valley. The shop, cafĂŠ, play area and wildlife garden help make this reserve a popular visitor attraction.
Where? Railway stations at Folkestone (17 miles/27.4 km from reserve),
Ashford (18 miles/29 km) and Rye (12 miles/19.3 km). Bus service Hastings to Folkestone via Rye and Lydd; or the Ashford to Lydd bus goes direct to the reserve. Volunteers have a newly-renovated farmhouse with three double bedrooms on the reserve. This is a remote site.
When? Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: one or two placements available all year, plus two interns.
Where? Railway stations at Wombwell and Swinton (both about 3 miles/
Why?
4.8 km from the reserve). Bus stop at reserve entrance. Bicycle or car useful. Three-bedroom cottage within the reserve courtyard. Each room has a single bed.
Why?
Who?
Practical habitat and estate management are the main activities. Survey and research work takes place during the spring/summer months. Volunteers will also assist with our visitor experience team, helping with events. There will be a variety of work that may be carried out at our other sites in the valley. Occasional work with livestock.
Who? Call Craig on 01797 320588.
Call Heather on 01226 273831.
Dorset reserves Wareham, Dorset
lT26
18+
Exe Estuary Exminster, Devon
What? Help protect and monitor wildlife and inspire people at our
eight Dorset reserves. Working in a range of habitats and roles including habitat management, events management and delivery, estates maintenance, species monitoring and chatting to our visitors about our work.
When?
Year-round duties will include all aspects of reserve wardening, including practical habitat management, which can be physically demanding. Other tasks include bird and other wildlife monitoring (depending on the time of year), estate, infrastructure and visitor facility maintenance, administration and occasional people engagement activities as required. Occasional work with livestock.
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: three spaces at Arne.
Where? Arne is near Wareham, on the Isle of Purbeck. Railway station
at Wareham (5 miles/8 km from reserve). Car or bicycle useful. Purpose-built chalet on site with three single bedrooms.
lT26
18+
What?
he Exe area includes five wetland nature reserves around the T Exe Estuary and a shop at Darts Farm. All our sites are open to visitors and are managed to provide suitable areas for breeding, feeding and migratory birds. Bowling Green Marsh’s high-tide roost is one of the premier birdwatching sites in south west England.
When?
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: three placements available.
Where? Railway station at Topsham (1 mile/1.6 km from reserve)
or Exeter (6 miles/9.6 km). Local bus routes to Exminster village, or pick-up by prior arrangement. Volunteers stay in a house in the village, with one double and two single bedrooms.
Why? You will be working on eight reserves covering over
1,500 hectares, with habitats including internationally rare heathland, wetland, reedbed, coppiced woodland, farmland and ancient woodland. You will also inspire the public about wild places and wildlife.
Why? A wide range of tasks, including estate management work,
maintenance of visitor facilities, surveying and monitoring, working with livestock and helping with public engagement events. In addition, there is an opportunity to work closely with the residential volunteers at Aylesbeare Common.
Who? Call Stewart on 01929 553360.
Who? Call Tom on 01392 833311.
Pigs are used for habitat management
14
Drake Teal
15
“I had a really great week being involved in a whole range of activities. Staff all so helpful. I loved it, thank you so much for giving me this opportunity”
England Fairburn Ings Castleford, Yorkshire
Jenny Thorne at Fairburn Ings
ST2
16+
What?
I ts large shallow lakes and marshes make this reserve important for wildfowl and wading birds, both breeding and over-wintering. On the River Aire, with areas of woodland, this is a great place for the UK’s most colourful insects. There are approximately 28 species of butterfly, and 20 species of dragonfly, including the UK’s largest – the emperor dragonfly. Fairburn has a pond dipping area and a large visitor centre.
When?
Short-term: one placement available all year. Long-term: two interns only.
Where? Railway station at Castleford (4 miles/7 km from visitor centre). Car or bicycle useful, as accommodation is 1 mile/1.6 km from visitor centre. Very limited public transport. Pick-up by prior arrangement. A semi-detached house in Fairburn village with three large bedrooms, each with a single bed, and one smaller single bedroom for short term volunteers.
Why?
state maintenance and habitat management work is the main E mid-week activity throughout the year. This can be physically demanding and repetitive. Weekend work revolves around helping visitors and assisting in the visitor centre. Survey/research assistance is required all year, but particularly March to June. Occasional work with livestock.
Who? Call John or Karen on 01977 628191.
Emperor dragonfly on a foxglove
Frampton Marsh Boston, Lincolnshire
18+
What?
n the edge of The Wash – the largest and most important O wetland for birds in the UK – Frampton Marsh has a developing reedbed, three large freshwater scrapes for nesting and migrant wading birds, wet grasslands and one of the largest areas of saltmarsh in the world. Hen harriers are winter visitors and we have the highest density of nesting redshanks in the country – a real success story. Our visitor centre is open daily throughout the year.
When?
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: two interns only.
Redshank
Where? Railway station at Boston (4 miles/7 km from the reserve).
Car or bicycle useful. Accommodation is in a large Georgian, Grade II listed farmhouse, which also hosts the offices. There are two double bedrooms.
Why? Practical intern: assisting the site wardens with habitat
management and estate maintenance, including vegetation control, and fencing and footpath maintenance. Also survey and monitoring work, such as breeding bird surveys and lagoon invertebrate sampling. Visitor services intern: assisting the Visitor Services Officer with welcoming and recruiting visitors, events, producing interpretation, and promoting the reserve through traditional and new media.
Who? Call Simon on 01205 725142 for the practical intern position.
Call Chris on 01205 725143 regarding the visitor services intern.
Kingfisher
16
17
England Geltsdale Brampton, Cumbria
England lT4
18+
site showcasing moorland, woodland and farmland. Geltsdale forms the north-western part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Annually, about 10,000 people visit to see black grouse, birds of prey and breeding waders. Ideal for walking and seeing rare upland bird species, flowers, butterflies and the occasional otter.
What? A great bird reserve, Leighton Moss has them all – bitterns
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: one or two placements available all year.
When?
in the reedbeds, marsh harriers over the grassland and avocets in the lagoons. Not forgetting the other wildlife: more than 300 species of moth have been recorded here and otters are now regularly seen. There is a visitor centre, shop, café, hides and trails.
Where? Railway station at Brampton near Carlisle (4 miles/6.4 km from
reserve), with pick-up by prior arrangement. Car or bicycle useful. Volunteers live in a remote, terraced cottage on the reserve, with two double bedrooms, 1 mile/1.6 km from the office.
Why?
Who?
is 20 minutes by train and Carnforth is six minutes by train. Volunteers live in a renovated farm building on the reserve, with two bedrooms – one with twin beds, and one with bunks and a single bed.
pland conservation work including fencing, dry stone U walling and footpath maintenance. Monitoring, protection and survey work is available at certain times of the year. There will be opportunities to assist with visitor work on guided walks, reception and recruitment. The work can be physically demanding, outside in all weathers.
ST2 lT8
18+
Leighton Moss reserve
Practical – spring/summer: breeding wader and predator project survey work, includes butterfly transects and practical tasks. Autumn/winter: habitat/estate management and maintenance, such as reed cutting and fencing. This work can be physically demanding and repetitive. People engagement – assisting the visitor centre team with all aspects of visitor care and publicity, including reception duties. Showing people wildlife, recruiting members, events and maintaining facilities.
Who?
Practical: call Richard on 01524 703014. People engagement: call Annabel on 01524 703017.
Mid Yare Valley Strumpshaw, Norwich, Norfolk
Ruggedly romantic, this reserve is most famous for having England’s only golden eagle territory. It’s a mixture of woodland and mountain grassland, with tumbling becks and imposing crags, surrounding Haweswater reservoir in the Lake District National Park.
When? Short-term: one or two placements available all year. Long-term: one or two placements available all year.
Where? Railway station at Penrith (10 miles/16 km from reserve),
Why?
Why?
Call Ian on 01697 746717.
Haweswater Penrith, Cumbria
18+
n the Norfolk Broads along the banks of the River Yare, this O large reserve includes grazing marshes, wet woodlands, fen and reedbeds. Many internationally important birds and other wildlife are found here, including bitterns, marsh harriers, Norfolk hawker dragonflies, swallowtail butterflies and spectacular numbers of ducks, geese and wading birds in the winter.
When?
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: two or three placements available all year.
with pick-up by prior arrangement. Buses twice a week. Car or bicycle useful. Farmhouse with two single and one twin bedroom on the reserve.
Where? Railway station at Brundall (2 miles/3.2 km from reserve). Bicycle
Physical land management work in summer, autumn and winter. This can be physically demanding and repetitive. Survey/research assistance is required in spring and summer if you have specialist skills. At all times of the year manual work is required, including bracken cutting, dry stone walling, general farm work and tree planting.
Why?
ypically, habitat management involves fen management in late T summer, and reedbed work, scrub clearance and woodland tasks in autumn and winter. Opportunities to help with visitor reception and events, mostly in spring and summer. Survey work will include breeding bird surveys in spring and summer and wetland bird counts in autumn and winter. Maintenance of visitor facilities required throughout the year. Some assistance required with the reserve’s Highland cattle. People engagement opportunities available through the summer.
Who?
Call Matthew on 01603 715191.
and/or car useful, but not essential. Detached cottage on the reserve with three single bedrooms.
See “Your Words” by Tom Broadhurst on page 12
Haweswater reserve
18
lT20
What?
Who? Call Spike on 01931 713376.
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: three interns only – two practical and one people engagement.
Where? Railway station at Silverdale, next to the reserve. Lancaster
Lapwing
What?
18+
Silverdale, Lancashire
What? Breathtaking fell views sum up this large and remote upland
When?
Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay
Southern marsh orchid at Strumpshaw Fen
19
England Minsmere Westleton, Saxmundham, Suffolk
England lT26
18+
Old Hall Marshes Maldon, Essex
What? Minsmere is one of the RSPB’s flagship reserves, featuring an
lT26
18+
What? Old Hall Marshes is a fragment of the once plentiful
outstanding variety of habitats, including reedbed, heathland, coastal lagoons, dunes and woodland. The reserve supports several nationally important populations of breeding birds, including bitterns and avocets, and nationally important populations of wintering wildfowl. It is also rich in other wildlife, with more than 1,000 species of moth recorded, plus 33 species of butterfly, 23 species of dragonfly and damselfly, as well as red deer, otters and water voles. Konik and Exmoor ponies, Highland cattle and rare-breed sheep graze a variety of habitats on the reserve.
grazing marsh that fringed the coastlines of Kent and Essex. These marshes represent one of the last remaining wilderness areas in the country and retain a centuries-old grazing tradition, which, when combined with recent habitat management, produces a working example of a viable farming enterprise. It provides a refuge for thousands of breeding and wintering waterfowl, 24 species of butterfly as well as damselflies and ruddy darters. The ancient grassland is characterised by thousands of ant hills made by yellow meadow ants.
When? Short-term: no placements available.
When?
Where? Railway station at Darsham (5 miles/8 km from reserve) where
Where? Railway and coach station at Colchester (14 miles/22 km from
Long-term: three placements all year round.
reserve) and railway station at Kelvedon (9 miles/14 km). Pick-up by prior arrangement. Mid-terraced cottage for volunteers, 0.75 miles/1 km from the reserve, with two double bedrooms. Bicycles provided.
you can get a bus, taxi, or pick-up from the station (by prior arrangement). Purpose-built chalet for volunteers on site with three single bedrooms.
Why? Land management work, estate maintenance, helping visitors, species protection, reception duties and survey/research assistance. Some stock/farm work during summer.
Who?
Why?
ssisting with habitat and estate management, and monitoring A of birds and other wildlife, machinery maintenance, hydrology monitoring and admin. Also, livestock-related tasks.
Who?
Call Neil on 01621 869015.
Call Katie on 01728 648079.
Konik pony
North Kent Marshes Rochester, Kent What?
diverse range of sites between Gravesend in the west A and Whitstable in the east. Shorne Marshes, Elmley Marshes, Seasalter and Northward Hill make up an important area of grazing marsh, with high densities of breeding lapwings and redshanks in spring and spectacular flocks of wading birds and wildfowl in winter. Northward Hill also has an area of woodland that supports nightingales, herons, owls, white-letter hairstreak butterflies and the rare emerald damselfly. Nearby, Cliffe Pools is an exciting reserve with an ambitious saline lagoon restoration planned for the coming years.
When?
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: three interns only.
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: one placement available all year, plus one intern.
Hoar frost
18+
Volunteers at Old Hall Marshes show off their handiwork.
Where? Railway station at Strood (5.5 miles/8.9 km). Bus stops at
High Halstow (1.5 miles/2.4 km). Pick-up by prior arrangement. Volunteers stay in a beautiful farmhouse with three double bedrooms.
Why?
abitat management on grazing marsh, woodland and saline H lagoons. Estate maintenance, talking to visitors on the reserves, bird and other wildlife surveys and data recording. Work can be physically demanding, especially in winter.
Who?
Call Andy on 01634 222480.
Grass snake
20
21
England Saltholme Near Middlesbrough, Tees Valley What?
estled in the Tees Valley, surrounded by many industrial N neighbours, Saltholme offers a dramatic landscape and stunning wildlife. Hundreds of pairs of common terns breed on cockleshell islands in the summer and thousands of wildfowl spend the winter here. With habitats such as reedbeds, wet grassland, open pools and scrapes, Saltholme attracts lapwings, water voles, golden plovers, brown hares and sand martins.
When?
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: three placements available all year.
England lT12
18+
Surrey and Hampshire Heaths Fleet, Hampshire
Where? Railway station at Middlesbrough (7.2 miles/11.5 km from the
Who?
18+
wo strikingly different heathland reserves on the Surrey/ T Hampshire border. Farnham Heath is one of the RSPB’s largest heathland restoration projects with over 220 acres of new heath. The site supports grayling butterflies, sand lizards and nightjars, and has over 60,000 visits a year. Hazeley Heath is a newer quieter reserve with a feeling of space that belies its small size. It is part of the internationally important Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area for birds such as woodlarks and nightjars. It supports beautiful silver-studded blue butterflies and sundews. There is also a resident herd of fallow deer.
When? Short-term: two placements available, February–December.
reserve). Direct bus from Middlesbrough bus station. Pick-up from station by prior arrangement. Seaton Carew station (4.5 miles/ 7.2 km) is a five minute walk from the accommodation – a spacious first-floor flat with views of the sea. It has two double bedrooms, one single bedroom, and a fish and chip shop just across the road! Direct bus route to the reserve.
Why?
What?
sT1 lT26
Long-term: one placement available, February–December.
Where? Railway station at Fleet is 1.25 miles/2 km from the
accommodation. Pick-up from station by prior arrangement. Driving licence essential, own transport highly desirable. A large newly-refurbished bungalow, with two bedrooms; one twin and one double. It is 5 miles/8 km from Hazeley and 9 miles/14 km from Farnham.
ong-term placement 1 and 2: working alongside the estate L team on a variety of reserve management activities, and survey/ monitoring tasks. Long-term placement 3: working alongside the visitor centre team at events, meeting and greeting, in the shop and occasionally helping the education team.
Why? Practical habitat management, estate work and patrols
carried out all year round, with survey and monitoring of birds, reptiles and invertebrates in the spring and summer. The work can be strenuous and demanding, especially in the winter. Opportunities to help with people engagement and guided walks on and off both reserves, including running and attending events.
Call Edward on 01642 542070.
Who? Call Mike or Izzy on 01252 795632. Little egrets
Somerset reserves Langport, Somerset
lT12
Sand lizard
See overleaf for a warden’s view
18+
What?
West Sedgemoor is an internationally important area of low-lying wet meadows, attracting large numbers of ducks, geese and wading birds in winter and breeding waders in spring. Greylake is a wet grassland reserve, attracting breeding and overwintering wading birds, ducks and geese. Swell Wood is an ancient woodland with the largest heronry in the south west. Ham Wall is a mosaic of reedbed and woodland and is becoming a very popular wetland with wildlife such as bitterns. When? Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: two or three placements available all year. Where? Railway and coach station at Taunton (10 miles/16 km from reserve). Pick-up from station by prior arrangement. A large farmhouse with three bedrooms (two with double beds and one with a single bed). Why? Placements one and two (all year): management of wet grassland including work with livestock. Varied estate management including maintenance of fencing and water control structures. Hedge laying, coppicing and other woodland management. Survey work mostly March to June. Occasional species protection and patrolling throughout the year. Work can be physically demanding, especially in winter. Placement three (November–May): visitor work and face-to-face people engagement at Greylake and Swell Wood, and potentially across all four Somerset reserves; guided walks; planning and leading events; writing blogs and newsletters. Who? Call Paul or Becky on 01458 252805.
West Sedgemoor
22
Hampshire Heath
23
A warden’s view
Setting up a new scheme at Farnham and Hazeley Heaths
“Getting the opportunity to be involved with setting up a new residential volunteering scheme for Farnham and Hazeley Heath reserves was a great chance to see the process through from start to finish. Little did I know at the time quite how long the whole process would take. If this project had a theme song it would probably be the one from Star Trek Enterprise that goes: “it’s been a long road getting from there to here, it’s been a long time, but my time is finally near”. On more pessimistic days it was the “Cup of Tea” song, ‘‘cos we were getting nowhere... so we had a cup of tea’. “The Bungalow and the fields behind it were gifted to the RSPB a number of years ago and until recently had been occupied by a tenant who decided to move out leaving us with an empty property. Towards the end of 2013, we were given the go-ahead to renovate it and use it for residential volunteers.
Symonds Yat – A Date with Nature View over the River Wye
18+
What? Symonds Yat A Date with Nature is perched 500 feet above the River Wye, with spectacular views of the Coldwell Cliffs where peregrines nest. This is a Forestry Commission site and there is a public viewpoint, but no hide.
When?
Short-term: April to August (excluding June to mid-July – see long-term below). Preferable commitment of two weeks. Long-term: one placement, 1 June to 20 July.
Where? Railway station at Lydney (7 miles/10 km from the viewpoint).
Bike or car essential. The accommodation is a caravan with a double bed and two singles. Suitable for a couple, two friends or one volunteer. This will be on a nearby caravan site.
Isabel Morgan
“The first coats of paint went on in January 2014 then the project stalled ... it was a cup of tea moment. With the economy picking up nobody was interested in a ‘small’ job like fitting a kitchen, bathroom, demolishing the old porch and replacing facades. Which left us one contractor short of actually having a contractor! The damp patch on the ceiling was definitely getting bigger and the winter storms caused a big tree to fall on the roof. One day I even managed to lock myself out! “It was March when we finally overcame our main problem with getting somebody in to fit the kitchen and bathroom. A local tradesman managed to squeeze us in. The tree was removed, the damp patch fixed and the Farnham and Hazeley volunteer team painted, gardened, merrily demolished the old porch, cleared the garden and tested out the living room furniture.
Why?
ecruiting new members, welcoming visitors, showing them R the peregrines and other raptors through telescopes. Specialist knowledge of birds is not required, but enthusiasm and good people skills are. This is a people-based project with no physical land management work. However, you must be able to stand for most of the day. International volunteers must speak very good English.
Who?
all Hannah on 01594 562852, or call the Information C Assistant (April to August) on 07736 792511.
Titchwell Marsh Hunstanton, Norfolk What?
“We are now finally here and ready to welcome residential volunteers to the Surrey and Hampshire Heath residential volunteer scheme. Alex had the honour of being the first volunteer to occupy The Bungalow when she moved in early September and has been ironing out the few kinks that we missed.
ST1 lT26
16+
n the north Norfolk coast, Titchwell is one of the best places for O wildlife in the UK. From marsh harriers over the reedbeds, avocets on the lagoons, the rare dune tiger beetle, and the occasional otter, it has something for everyone. New trails and state-of-the-art hides have recently opened. There is also a busy visitor centre, shop and café.
When? Short-term: one placement available from June to September.
Maximum stay two weeks. Long-term: one six-month placement available from September to March, plus two interns.
Where? King’s Lynn railway and coach station (23 miles/37 km from
“The scheme is primarily based on Farnham Heath (Surrey) and Hazeley Heath (Hampshire) reserves, but there may be opportunities to visit and help out at a couple of other reserves in the area as well. The work you’ll do will very much depend on the time of year, with most of the practical habitat management being carried out in the winter and surveys and visitor work during the spring and summer”.
reserve), then bus via Hunstanton. Pick-up from Hunstanton by prior arrangement. A bicycle is useful. Volunteer house with four single bedrooms, about 0.75 miles/1 km from the reserve.
Why?
inter: habitat and estate management including reed cutting, W scrub control, boardwalk and hide maintenance. Survey work to include Wetland Bird Survey and wintering harrier counts. Regular contact with visitors on the reserve and within the visitor centre. Summer: survey work on avocets, marsh harriers, bitterns and ringed plovers. Supporting reserve events by helping on guided walks, moth mornings and pond dipping. Maintenance of paths, boardwalks and hides. Most of your time will be spent at Titchwell, but there may be the opportunity to work on other reserves in the local area, especially Snettisham.
Who?
Call Paul on 01485 211970.
We are open for business, come and join us. Farnham The peat beds at low tide – they date back to 8,000 BC.
24
sT2 lT6
near Coleford, Gloucestershire
by Isabel Morgan, Project Officer “I’ve managed a few residential volunteers over my RSPB career and have been a long-term residential volunteer myself. I still do short-term residential volunteering as part of my annual leave (yes I use my holiday to work for my own employer for free!). It’s a useful way of networking and learning new skills that I wouldn’t necessarily gain on my own reserves, plus I get a holiday doing something I enjoy, free accommodation and minimal responsibility.
England
25
Residential volunteering in
NEW FOR 2015! Portmore Lough Aghalee, Craigavon
Northern Ireland
What?
Northern Ireland 18+
ST2 lT26
ortmore Lough is a shallow, open lough that is important for P ducks and geese over winter, particularly Icelandic Whooper swans and greylag geese. The reedbeds are some of the largest in Northern Ireland and provide a safe haven for teals and tufted ducks. In summer, the lough is an important place for gadwalls and coots to moult. Rafts provide nesting sites for common terns and great crested grebes. Garganeys and shovelers raise their young in the pools and channels. The reserve is a focal point for breeding lapwings and snipe. There is a resident herd of Konik ponies that are used to help manage the habitat. There are also wildflower meadows, alive with butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies in summer. There is an ever-increasing colony of tree sparrows too, which can usually be spotted around the viewing platform, picnic area and wildlife garden.
When? Short-term: From May, one or two placements.
Long-term: one or two placements – maximum of three volunteers at any time.
Where? Flights to Belfast City or Belfast International or ferries to Belfast
or Larne. All have good coach and rail links. See translink.co.uk Closest rail station is Moira. Lifts may be available from the station to the reserve. The accommodation is a cottage with three single bedrooms, which is a 5 minute walk from the reserve.
Why? Throughout the year there is a variety of work, including habitat
and estate management, people engagement, events, survey work and helping the Community Engagement Officer on and off the reserve. There may be some work with other reserves teams within Northern Ireland.
Whooper swan
Who? Call the team on 02892 651936.
Rathlin Island Seabird Centre
ST2 lT4
18+
County Antrim What?
athlin Island has a community of about 100 people and a huge R seabird breeding colony of puffins, fulmars, kittiwakes and razorbills. The RSPB Seabird Centre is in a cliffside lighthouse. More than 15,000 people visit in summer to see the seabirds
When? Short-term: up to seven placements, April to early September.
Long-term: one or two placements available late March to early September.
Where? Ferries to Larne or Belfast. Airports: Belfast City, Belfast
International and City of Derry. Railway to Ballymena from Belfast airports and all ferries. Railway to Coleraine from City of Derry airport. Bus to Ballycastle. Ferry from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island – it is essential to book this. Buses run to Ballycastle from all over Northern Ireland. Accommodation in a cottage hostel 3 miles/5 km from village and amenities, and 1 mile/1.6 km from the Seabird Centre. There’s one bedroom for three and another for six. Access to the Seabird Centre is on foot over rough tracks through cattle and via steep steps.
“I had a wonderful experience! I felt really looked after and part of the team.”
Why?
his is a fun role that involves meeting and greeting visitors, T showing them the seabirds from an outdoor viewing platform, and recruiting new members. Occasionally taking part in community activities. Good people/communication skills are vital. International volunteers must speak very good English.
Who?
all the Seabird Centre staff on 028 2076 0062 or 07793 C 269393 (April to August only) or call Peter at Northern Ireland Headquarters on 028 9049 1547.
Stephanie Burns at Rathlin Island
26
Fulmar
Rathlin Island harbour
27
Residential volunteering in
Scotland
Scotland
Abernethy Nethybridge, Inverness-shire What?
ST1 lT20
I n the Cairngorms National Park, Abernethy is one of the many jewels in Scotland’s crown. The reserve extends from the Caledonian pinewoods around Loch Garten, through heather moorland up to the montane areas of the Cairngorm plateau (14,000 hectares or 53 square miles). Over 4,500 species have been recorded on the reserve, which is home to the iconic capercaillie and other notable species such as crested tits, Scottish crossbills, ospreys, golden eagles, dotterels, snow buntings, pine martens and twinflowers.
16+ Capercaillie
When? Short-term: two placements available between mid-September and March inclusive. Long-term: one placement available from September to March.
Where? Railway and coach station at Aviemore (10 miles/16 km from
reserve). Car useful. Pick-up from Aviemore by prior arrangement. A large former hunting lodge houses the volunteers, the contract staff and reserve offices. Volunteers have two twin bedrooms with a shared kitchen.
Why?
hysical land management work throughout the year may include: P woodland management, heather burning, deer management, fence repairs and general estate maintenance. Volunteers may occasionally be involved with bird and animal population monitoring and other research work. The majority of tasks are physically strenuous and involve a considerable amount of walking over difficult terrain.
Who?
Call Alice on 01479 821409.
Abernethy – Operation Osprey Loch Garten, Abernethy, Inverness-shire What?
ST1
18+
art of Abernethy reserve, this project provides 24-hour protection P for breeding ospreys. The Loch Garten Osprey Centre gives the public fantastic views of these birds and shows live CCTV camera footage from the nests on screens. Around the Osprey Centre, red squirrels can be seen at close range, along with great spotted woodpeckers and more.
When? Short-term: six placements available end of March to early September. Maximum stay two weeks. Long-term: no placements available.
Where? Railway and coach station at Aviemore 8 miles/13 km from
chalets, pick-up by prior arrangement. Car useful, some bicycles provided. Three chalets, each with a twin-bedded room for volunteers and another bedroom for an RSPB staff member. The accommodation is 2.5 miles/4 km from the visitor centre, but it is a nice, easy walk.
“I had a wonderful time; definitely to be repeated. Fell in love with Islay. My Bothy partner’s enthusiasm was infectious, and I may have caught something pleasant.”
Why?
Tim Claye at Loch Gruinart
28 28
Osprey nest site protection and 24-hour surveillance by three teams of two people using a hide exclusive to staff and volunteers. Also, helping in the visitor centre, welcoming the public and updating them with information about the ospreys. International volunteers must speak very good English.
Who? Call Jen on 01479 821409 or call the Information Officer on 01479 831648 (from end of March to end of August, evenings only).
Otter
Greater Spotted Woodpecker
29
Scotland
Scotland
100th osprey chick fledges
Hoy Orkney
The 100th osprey to fledge from our famous nest in the Highlands took to the air in 2014. The milestone event at the Loch Garten Osprey Centre was eagerly anticipated and there was much cheering as “Millicent” flew off from the nest on 12th July. Millicent was one of three female chicks to fledge, her siblings were named Seasca and Druie. Following much flying practice from all three birds, they set off on their migration in August. Both Millicent and Seasca were satellite tagged, so their progress could be monitored. Unfortunately, Seasca’s signal was lost at the end of August and so it is feared she didn’t successfully make the journey. Millicent, however, arrived safely in West Africa on 8 September.
The osprey nest at Loch Garten
Richard Thaxton, RSPB Scotland Osprey Centre Manager, said: “It was a magical moment to see Millicent airborne for the first time. It happens every year of course, but this time it was particularly special as she is the 100th chick to fledge from the nest since the birds first returned in the late 1950s. It is a magnificent milestone in the huge conservation success story for Scotland. It was a proud moment for all involved in the project, both past and present.”
Forsinard Flows Caithness and Sutherland
ST2 lT6
18+
What? Part of the internationally important Flow Country – the single
largest expanse of blanket bog in the world. As well as rugged peatland, the reserve also includes moorland, montane heath, forests and farmland supporting important populations of breeding upland wading birds, divers, waterfowl, hen harriers, merlins and short-eared owls.
When?
Short-term: one or two placements available from August to March. Long-term: up to three placements available all year.
What?
oy is the ‘high island’ of Orkney and is a haven for walkers and H climbers. It has heather moorland, scattered lochans, mountain scenery and spectacular sea cliffs. Sub-Arctic vegetation is found on the hill summits and native woodland on the steep-sided valleys – most notably in Berriedale, Britain’s most northerly native woodland.
When?
Short-term: one placement available. Long-term: one or two placements available between April and August inclusive.
Why?
Who?
Forsinard Flows
30
state management and peatland/forestry survey work is carried E out throughout the year, except between April and July, when you will be assisting with moorland breeding bird surveys, monitoring and visitor duties. Good bird skills required. October to March: forestry work and peatland management to restore blanket bog habitat, including practical work. Work may be strenuous and involve a considerable amount of walking in remote upland areas. Map and compass navigation skills desirable.
18+ Hoy
Where? Either a passenger ferry from Stromness to Moaness Pier
(which is a five-minute walk from the accommodation) or via car ferry from Houton to Lyness (11 miles/17.5 km from reserve). Bus/train from Edinburgh to Thurso takes about seven hours. Purpose-built small house (bothy). One bedroom with two single beds.
Why?
Assisting with survey/research work (especially in spring/summer), helping visitors in summer and maintaining footpaths. Management work is conducted all year and centres around the native tree planting programme, with associated work in the tree nursery. Good bird identification skills required April to mid-July. Work may be strenuous and involve a considerable amount of walking in remote upland areas.
Who?
Call Lee on 01856 791298.
Insh Marshes Kingussie, Inverness-shire
sT2 lT6
16+
What? One of Europe’s most valuable wetlands, this reserve has
extensive marshes in the floodplains of the upper River Spey, in the foothills of the Cairngorm mountains. Large numbers of wading birds, ducks and geese breed here, but it’s also a wonderful place for wildflowers, dragonflies and butterflies. Ospreys catch fish in the loch and roe deer roam the woodland and marsh. In the winter, when the marsh floods, it provides ideal habitat for visiting flocks of whooper swans and greylag geese.
When?
Where? Railway station at Forsinard, next to the reserve office. House with four single bedrooms for volunteers, on the reserve.
ST4 LT20
Short-term: one or two placements available all year. Long-term: one placement available all year, plus one intern.
Where? Railway and coach station at Kingussie (5 miles/8 km from
cottage). Car/bicycle useful. Cottage with two single and one twin bedroom, next to the reserve office, in the village of Insh.
Why?
ostly physical land management work, such as fencing, scrub M clearance, repair/upkeep of trails and reserve buildings, some survey/research and monitoring tasks. Good bird identification skills desirable from April to June.
Who?
Call Pete on 01540 661518.
Call Claire on 01641 571225.
Orchid
31
Scotland Loch Gruinart and The Oa Islay, Argyll What?
sT2 LT4
och Gruinart is a shallow sea loch. At its mouth are sandy L beaches and dunes; at its head are mudflats and saltmarsh. There is wet grassland, important for geese, wildfowl and wading birds, and a small area of woodland. Moorland and bog surround the low-lying areas. Also on Islay, The Oa nature reserve has cliffs, coastal heath, rich meadows and open moorland. The reserves are both managed as working farms, with sheep and cattle as vital conservation tools. In the summer, Islay bursts into colour with meadows of wildflowers. Golden eagles soar over the sea cliffs, hen harriers hunt over the heath and corncrakes can be heard until the end of July.
18+ Mull of Oa
When? Short-term: one or two placements mid-Jan to Mid-April and mid-June to mid-December. Long-term: one or two placements available all year.
Where? Bus from Glasgow to Kennacraig, then two-hour ferry trip to the
island. Car or bicycle useful (although bicycles cannot be taken on the bus). Flybe offers flights from Glasgow to Islay, but they can be expensive. The bothy, with two twin and one triple-bedded room, is part of the visitor centre complex.
Why?
Practical and physical estate and habitat management, occasionally working with stock (cows and sheep). In July and early August you will assist with guided walks, events, membership recruitment and manning the visitor centre. Throughout the year there is a lot of manual work as well as wildlife surveys. Be prepared for all weather conditions. Practical skills and bird knowledge desirable.
Who? Call Mary on 01496 850505.
Loch Leven Perth and Kinross
LT12
18+
What? Previously known as Vane Farm, this popular visitor destination,
30 minutes north of Edinburgh, is part of Loch Leven National Nature Reserve, Scotland’s largest lowland loch. The site’s carefully managed wetlands are grazed by Highland cattle and are important for breeding, migrating and wintering ducks, geese, and wading birds such as lapwings. There is also a wooded hill behind the visitor centre, with stunning views over Loch Leven, towards the Scottish Highlands, the Fife coast, the Isle of May and Bass Rock. We welcome 50,000 visitors a year to our shop, café and education facilities, which are housed in an 18th century farmstead.
When?
“We had a superb week at Abernethy. Tasks were motivational and inspiring. Alice was an absolute star – our volunteering experience was faultless.”
Short-term: no placements available. Long-term: one placement from April to June inclusive.
Where? Railway station at Lochgelly (5 miles/8 km from reserve).
Nearest bus stop is Ballingry (2.5 miles/4 km). Bothy with one single bedroom, next to the visitor centre.
Why?
J oin the Tayside reserves team over the breeding season and experience a wide range of monitoring, with a focus on lapwing productivity. You’ll be based at Loch Leven, but will also carry out surveys at Loch of Kinnordy. There will be a range of habitat management and reserve maintenance, with the opportunity to get involved in other aspects of the reserve, such as retail and education.
Who?
Call Vicky on 01577 862355.
Alison and Bethan at Abernethy Forest
Adjusting sluices
32
Abernethy reserve
33
Scotland
Scotland
Loch of Strathbeg Crimond, Fraserburgh What?
sT3
18+
spectacular coastal loch with adjoining beaches, marsh, A reedbeds, wet grassland and arable farmland. The reserve is internationally important for wintering ducks and geese. Many species of bird are recorded annually, along with 300 species of plant, and otters are seen regularly. Spectacular views over wetlands from the visitor centre.
Mull of Galloway
What? The reserve is the most southerly point in Scotland. The 280-foot
high cliffs allow extensive views across Luce Bay to the Isle of Man, Ireland and Cumbria, and are home to thousands of seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes. The coastal grassland supports a number of regionally rare and scarce plants and invertebrates, such as rock sea lavender and wall brown butterflies. Breeding linnets, wheatears and stonechats are found on the coastal heath. The Mull attracts 40,000 visitors per year, with 19,000 visiting the centre.
Long-term: one practical intern mid-February to Christmas, plus one visitor officer intern April to December.
Where? Railway station at Aberdeen (40 miles/64 km from reserve) then
Why?
Who?
ildfowl and farmland bird monitoring and survey work during W winter. Breeding bird surveys in spring and summer. Invertebrate and other non-bird surveying. Estate and habitat management and maintenance all year, which can be physically demanding and repetitive over difficult terrain. Assisting in the visitor centre and with guided walks and events. May also include work at other Grampian reserves. Call Ed on 01346 532017.
18+
Drummore, Dumfries and Galloway
When? Short-term: one placement available March to mid-December.
bus to Peterhead, Fraserburgh or Crimond. Pick up by prior arrangement. Own transport desirable but not essential. One twin and one double-bedded room within the farmhouse, which includes the reserve office.
sT2
When?
Short-term: three volunteers, to include a couple or two friends sharing a room from April to September. Long-term: no placements available.
Where? No public transport. Own car or motorcycle essential. Cottage in Drummore with one double and one twin bedroom. 4.3 miles/6.9 km from visitor centre.
Why?
eeting and greeting visitors, showing people birds M in the wild and on CCTV, membership recruitment and helping with activities for children. International volunteers must speak very good English.
Who? Call Andrew on 01988 402130 or the visitor centre (April to end of September) on 01776 840539.
Loch of Strathbeg
Mull sea cliffs
Mersehead
Southwick, Dumfries and Galloway What?
sT2 lT26
18+
Mersehead is a working farm and a stunning example of wetland habitat restoration set adjacent to the intertidal sandflats of the Solway Firth. The reserve is internationally important for barnacle geese, pintails and teals, nationally important for shovelers and is home to Britain’s most north-westerly population of natterjack toads.
Onziebust and Trumland Orkney What?
When? Short-term: a couple or one volunteer only,
from April to August, one week maximum stay. Long-term: no placements available.
Where? Railway and bus stations at Dumfries (18 miles/24 km
Where? To Egilsay by car/passenger ferry from Tingwall on the west
Long-term: two or three placements available all year.
mainland of Orkney (about one hour). A bus service runs to Tingwall from Orkney’s two main towns, Kirkwall and Stromness. From Inverness there is a direct bus service to Kirkwall (including ferry connections). Bus/train from Edinburgh to Thurso takes about seven hours. A modernised, stone-built bothy next to the warden’s house on a farmstead within the reserve. The living area has a double bed. Water is from a private borehole, so is not treated, but operates like a mains supply. There is no pub or shop on the island.
from the reserve), then bus to Mersehead. Top floor of a recently converted farmhouse, with two twin bedrooms.
Who?
Natterjack toad
34
Winter: Habitat and estate management such as scrub control, fencing, path maintenance and machinery maintenance. Survey work will include wetland bird survey, wintering passerines and barnacle geese counts. Summer: Survey work on waders, breeding birds, water rails, natterjack toads and butterflies. Visitor engagement in the visitor centre and supporting events and guided walks. Maintenance of reserve facilities and wildlife gardens.
18+
nziebust is a farmland, wetland and shoreline reserve on O the island of Egilsay. It is managed for corncrakes, wading and farmland birds. Trumland is a moorland reserve on the island of Rousay and is very important for the conservation of hen harriers and red-throated divers.
When? Short-term: one placement June to August inclusive.
Why?
ST1
Why?
rom April to early June, assisting with survey work on both F islands. Experienced bird surveying skills essential. Note that corncrake surveys take place at night. At all other times, there will be lots of hands-on practical work on habitat management and estate work. Both work and weather can be tough.
Who?
Call the Warden on 01856 821395.
Call Rowena on 01387 780298.
Onziebust beach
35
Residential volunteering in
Scotland Oronsay Colonsay, Argyll
ST3 LT12 What?
18+
ronsay is a tidal island off the larger island of Colonsay. O The whole island forms the reserve, except for the Oronsay Estate grounds and ruined priory. This is a unique opportunity to stay in a stunning place that has no holiday accommodation. A working farm, the reserve is made up of farmland, machair grassland, moorland, dunes and shoreline. It is managed primarily for corncrakes, choughs, waders, farmland birds and over-wintering geese.
Wales
When? Short-term: one or two placements from June to
September inclusive. Long-term: one or two placements from October to May inclusive; a couple, two friends or one volunteer only.
Where? Ferry from Oban to Colonsay (2 hours and 15 minutes), connecting
buses and trains from Glasgow to Oban. Transfer from Colonsay to Oronsay by prior arrangement with local staff. Stone cottage with one double bedroom and a bed-sitting room. There is no pub or shop on the island; access to both on Colonsay is restricted by tides.
Why?
ostly farm work; there are 50 cattle and 600 sheep. May include M estate/habitat management, surveying and monitoring. Work can be physically hard and weather can be poor.
Who?
Call Izzy on 01951 200367.
Corncrake
NEW - Sumburgh Head,
Shetland
ST2 LT6
18+
What?
umburgh Head nature reserve is famous for its seabirds. In S summer it is home to thousands of breeding birds including guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, kittiwakes, shags and puffins. At sea, there are seals, orcas, minke whales and harbour porpoises. On land, the cliffs are covered in flowers. Other birds breed here including Shetland wrens, twites and oystercatchers. In 2014, a new visitor centre opened, managed by Shetland Amenity Trust.
When?
Short-term: one individual, a couple or a pair of friends May–August. Long-term: one placement available May–August.
Where? To Shetland: by boat to Lerwick from Aberdeen or Orkney.
Contact NorthLink Ferries, tel: 0845 6000 449. By plane: Flights from Orkney, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness and Glasgow. The reserve is about 2 miles (3.5 km) from Shetland airport. The nearest bus stops are at Sumburgh Hotel and Sumburgh airport. Driving licence and own transport highly desirable. Accommodation is in a refurbished lighthouse keeper’s building. Two bedrooms, one with a bunk bed, one with a twin/double bed. The kitchen may occasionally be required by Shetland Amenity Trust, by arrangement.
Why? The RSPB manages the site for wildlife, while promoting marine
Puffin
36
conservation and welcoming up to 24,000 visitors a year. All volunteers will welcome visitors and show them the seabirds, promote our marine conservation messages and recruit new members. There is no physical work. Specialist knowledge is not required, but you should be comfortable talking to the public. International volunteers must speak very good English. Sometimes volunteers will help on nearby Mousa nature reserve.
Who?
Call Martha on 01957 733246
“A wonderful week – in probably the worst weather imaginable (falling trees, 100mph winds, snow, sleet and flooding) and I loved it! Please let me come back for more!” Sue Loughran at Lake Vyrnwy Small tortoiseshell butterfly
37
Wales Lake Vyrnwy Llanwddyn, Powys
Wales ST1 lT4
What?
ne of our most spectacular and magical reserves, Lake Vyrnwy O is run as an organic hill farm with cattle and sheep, showing how farming and conservation can work together. It has a variety of different habitats, a thriving visitor centre with a shop, and seven trails. Vyrnwy also has some rare breeding bird species that need monitoring and protecting.
When?
Short-term: two placements, October to March. Long-term: two placements available April to September, plus two interns all year.
17+
South Stack Anglesey, Gwynedd What?
Totem pole
Who?
18+
outh Stack is a large coastal heathland site located in north S Wales, with high sea cliffs, caves, offshore stacks and cattlegrazed pasture. It is a busy tourist attraction with a shop and café at the visitor centre (open all year round). Ellin’s Tower information centre (open Easter to September) is a short walk away and is situated on the cliff edge overlooking the sea, as well as the breeding auk colonies during the spring and summer months.
When? Short-term: up to four placements, available from mid-March to end of September. Long-term: one placement available, November to March.
Where? No public transport – car or motorcycle essential. Two adjoining Why?
ST2 lT6
bungalows for volunteers, both with one single and one double bedroom, near the visitor centre.
Where? Railway station at Holyhead (3.5 miles/5.5 km from reserve).
ctober–March: practical management, estate maintenance and O some livestock work. Winter work can be repetitive and heavy. April–September: long-term volunteers needed with excellent bird identification skills to carry out bird surveys and monitoring tasks. Interviews may be carried out for these posts. Specialists in other wildlife are especially welcome at any time of year. Year-round help needed in the shop and visitor recruitment roles. The weather can be very changeable, even in summer, so be prepared!
Why?
hort-term: helping to deliver the highest quality visitor S experience, including helping in the café and supporting information staff in recruiting RSPB members, showing people birds and providing general information. International volunteers must speak very good English. Long-term: all of the above visitor work, plus estate maintenance and reserve management. Brushcutter certificate especially welcome.
Who?
Call the People Engagement Officer on 01407 762100.
Taxi to reserve. Own transport useful. Shared accommodation comprises a small farmhouse on the reserve, with one twin bedroom, and a small self-contained annex with a twin bed/sitting room.
Call Jim or Sioned on 01691 870278.
Ellin’s Tower
Ramsey Island St David’s, Pembrokeshire What?
ST2 LT12
18+
Ynys-hir Eglwys Fach, Machynlleth, Powys What?
remote island 1 mile/1.6 km off the coast, within the A Pembrokeshire National Park. Spectacular cliffs provide breeding sites for thousands of seabirds in spring, and an increasing population of Manx shearwaters breed underground. Grazing sheep maintain feeding habitats for choughs. Ramsey has the largest grey seal colony in southern Britain, with pups born from mid-August onwards.
When? Short-term: up to three placements, from April to end of
Long-term: two interns only.
Where? Railway station at Machynlleth (6 miles/10 km from reserve), or at
Dovey Junction (2 miles/4 km), then Aberystwyth bus to Eglwys Fach. We may be able to collect you from Dovey Junction station. Detached two bedroom cottage (1 mile/1.5 km from the reserve) with one single and one twin bedroom. A car or bicycle is useful as the nearest shop is 3 miles/5 km from the reserve. Well served by public transport.
Where? Railway station at Haverfordwest, bus to St David’s, shuttle bus
or taxi to St Justinians (2 miles/3.2 km away).Two boat crossings each morning from St Justinians, weather permitting. Volunteers share a large bungalow with four bedrooms: three singles and a twin. Limited power for charging small electrical items only. Log-burning stove in lounge, no other heating.
Why? Assisting with the very varied programme of habitat management,
Daily tasks include bird monitoring April to June and manual control of bracken, thistles and ragwort June to September. All volunteers will chat with visitors, assist with membership recruitment and help in the small shop. Enthusiasm and good people skills are essential. Work is mainly outdoors, can be physically hard and the weather can be poor. Difficult terrain and numerous steep steps on the island and in the mainland harbour.
estate work, surveying and monitoring, livestock management and visitor centre duties. Autumn/winter: management of lowland wet grassland, reedbed, woodland and the continued restoration of raised bog habitat. Spring/summer: estate work, species monitoring and visitor-focused duties. The work can be physically demanding.
Who?
Who? Call Lisa on 07836 535733. Ramsey Island
38
nys-hir is sited on the southern side of the Dyfi estuary, a Y UNESCO World Biosphere site. The reserve is stunningly beautiful and supports a unique mix of habitats, ranging from western oak woodlands to the saltmarshes of the Dyfi. It is the most important site for breeding lapwings in Wales. Other key species include pied flycatchers, redstarts, wood warblers, tree pipits, lesser spotted woodpeckers, otters, dormice and 10 species of bat.
When? Short-term: no placements available.
September. Long-term: one placement available, June to August inclusive, plus one intern.
Why?
18+
Call Neil on 01654 700222.
Woodland trail
39
More questions answered What do I need to bring?
You will need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport, driving licence or a current utility bill made out to your address. We will provide all necessary safety equipment, but you will probably need to bring: • tough, windproof work clothes, wet-weather clothing • a warm sleeping bag, or sheets/duvet cover and a pillowcase • towels • insect repellent • flask or water bottle • small rucksack or carrier • lunch box • binoculars/telescope • stout walking boots/Wellingtons • work gloves • enough money to buy your own food during your stay. A list of what to bring is also included in the reserve details sent to you once a booking has been made.
Will there be any free time?
You will not normally be expected to work more than five days per week, or on the day of arrival. Hours will not exceed eight per day, unless you choose to volunteer for longer. At some reserves, where nests are guarded 24 hours a day, some shift work is required. Duties will vary from reserve to reserve and will depend on the time of year. Please see individual reserve entries. There will always be some free time for birdwatching or other recreation. Please note: our reserves do not take residential volunteers over the Christmas/New Year period.
Public liability cover
Our public liability policy protects you as a volunteer against legal liability to third parties for accidental damage, loss or damage to property or for death, injury or illness. You are protected whilst carrying out any business on behalf of the RSPB anywhere in the UK. If someone can demonstrate/prove that your negligence, whilst carrying out the business of the RSPB, caused bodily injury and/or loss or damage to third party property, our insurance protects you. Cover is provided to a maximum of £10,000,000 per claim.
How safe is conservation work?
The RSPB aims to take all reasonable steps to ensure the health, safety and welfare of its volunteers. We are committed to providing and monitoring a safe and healthy working environment and to giving appropriate instruction, training and supervision for your health and safety.
Volunteers fitting fence posts
How will I get to the reserve?
You will need to organise your own transport to the reserve. Details of how to reach each reserve and, where possible, rail/bus stations from which we can collect you, are outlined on pages 10 to 39 for individual reserves. Further information on most reserves can be found on our website at rspb.org.uk/reserves You will be responsible for the cost of travelling to and from your reserve. Some sites suggest that a car or bicycle would be useful/essential due to remoteness or lack of public transport.
40
Collecting branches
Rathlin Island
Personal accident cover
All volunteers up to the age of 75 are covered for accidental death, injury resulting in the loss of limbs, eyes, etc and permanent disablement whilst carrying out any business on behalf of the RSPB anywhere in the UK. If you are aged 75 or over, please contact the Volunteering Development Department on 01767 680551, as you will need to complete a form to ensure that you are insured. Additional protection is provided for certain volunteers between the ages of 16 and 65 for temporary total and temporary partial disablement from usual occupation, while carrying out any business on behalf of the RSPB anywhere in the UK. The exact amount varies depending on the age of the injured person and the nature of the injury. The only personal accident cover provided for volunteers aged 75 to 85 is death benefit. No personal accident cover is provided for volunteers aged over 85.
Personal belongings cover What about insurance?
Volunteers are covered by the RSPB’s insurance policy while carrying out any business on behalf of the RSPB anywhere in the UK. This includes public liability and limited personal accident cover. As the RSPB personal accident cover is limited, we strongly advise that all volunteers secure their own personal accident insurance.
What about the Duke of Edinburgh Gold award?
Duke of Edinburgh Award participants can take part in residential volunteering for the residential section of their Gold Award. Always check with your DofE leader first before booking. At the end of your stay, the warden will write the Assessor’s report describing your achievements, how you met your goals, what skills you developed and any memorable moments. Please note: candidates must stay for a minimum of one week to fulfil the RSPB’s requirements.
We welcome applications from volunteers who are looking for placements that last six months to gain practical experience in conservation and/or complement an academic qualification or as part of a sandwich course. These are organised individually following an interview with the reserve staff and therefore may take longer to process. Long-term placements are subject to a satisfactory four-week probation/trial period.
A noticeboard in your volunteer accommodation will display health and safety information, such as fire procedures, first aid provision and details of any specific hazards at the reserve. It is your responsibility to read these. It is important that you have been inoculated against tetanus, so please ensure you are covered.
Volunteers over 18 with a current, clean driving licence can use an RSPB vehicle when appropriate, and be protected by our policy, subject to the approval of our insurers. You must complete a declaration form on arrival and bring a copy of your driving licence. If you are using your own vehicle for RSPB business, you must check with your insurers to make sure you have adequate cover.
Do you take volunteers for long-term placements?
Health and safety is a partnership between the RSPB and you. We ask you to follow the safety guidelines and not to put yourself, or anyone else, at risk while you are carrying out your volunteering role. An RSPB Health and Safety Handbook is kept on every reserve. Please ensure you read the sections most relevant to your role.
Will I need any special vaccinations?
Can I drive RSPB vehicles?
Regrettably, we cannot provide cover for loss of or damage to your personal belongings while you are volunteering. However, you can extend your household contents insurance to cover belongings you take to your place of volunteering.
Please enter the entire period you would like to volunteer for on the application form or contact the Residential Volunteering Booking Office, 9.30 am to 1 pm Monday to Friday, on 01767 680551, for details. Please include a copy of your CV with your application form. Long-term volunteers are nearly always required to have a driving licence in order to be able to drive the reserve vehicles.
What about interns?
Volunteering internships are run in some regions. The selected volunteers are usually expected to offer a year’s commitment in exchange for a structured training programme in practical reserve management and/or visitor services management. The programme offered may vary across locations. The following reserves take residential interns (the number in brackets shows how many intern placements there are): Blacktoft Sands (one) Coombes Valley (three) Dearne Valley (two) Dungeness (two) Fairburn Ings (two) Frampton Marsh (two) Lake Vyrnwy (two)
Leighton Moss (three) Loch of Strathbeg (two) North Kent Marshes (three) Old Hall Marshes (one) Ramsey Island (one) Titchwell Marsh (two) Ynys-hir (two)
These opportunities are advertised on the RSPB website and the Countryside Job Service and Environment Jobs websites during December and/or the New Year period.
41
More questions answered
Further information
Can I volunteer if I am claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance?
Keeping children safe
You can continue to claim Jobseeker’s Allowance and take part in residential volunteering. However, you must be able to meet a number of conditions: • you must be willing and able to attend an interview at 48 hours’ notice and be able to start work with a week’s notice • you must show that you are actively seeking work • you must be able to be contacted promptly if a job opportunity arises. Your Jobseeker’s Allowance should be unaffected by volunteering as long as you meet these requirements. Please see the leaflet entitled Volunteering While Receiving Benefits, available from Jobcentres. Please be aware that Universal Credit, a new system to replace all existing benefits, is being introduced gradually in the next two or three years. For more information, please see www.gov.uk/universal-credit If you experience difficulties with Jobseeker’s Allowance or any other welfare benefits due to your placement, please contact the Volunteering Development Department at The Lodge, 9.30 am to 1 pm Monday to Friday, on 01767 680551.
Do you accept volunteers from overseas?
Volunteers from the EU or European Economic Area (EEA) are welcome to apply, but we can only make a booking provided that: • you are 18 years old or over • you speak good English and are able to understand safety instructions. You will need basic conversational English to communicate and work with staff, other volunteers and visitors • you apply at least eight weeks before the start of your residential volunteering • you make your own travel arrangements from the airport or docks to the reserve or pick-up point. It is your responsibility to check before you travel whether you will need to obtain a visa to enter the UK. Unfortunately, immigration restrictions imposed by the UK Border Agency mean that we are unable to accept applications from volunteers outside the EU or the EEA. For more information, please see the Border Agency website at www.ukvisas.gov.uk Please note that the RSPB does not have a licence for sponsorship of volunteers. The telephone number for the immigration enquiry bureau is 0870 606 7766.
The RSPB takes all practicable steps to ensure the safety and welfare of children and young people while they are in contact with the RSPB. We observe the recommendations of the Home Office code of practice Safe from harm, and similar codes of practice covering Scotland, and conform to all relevant legislation. We make all RSPB volunteers and staff aware of the need to safeguard the welfare of children and young people. Where staff or volunteers have substantial unsupervised contact with children as part of their work, or where they have contact with children in isolated settings, they are recruited, supervised and trained as recommended in Safe from harm.
Can you keep a secret?
During your volunteering, you may find yourself working with material that is not public knowledge. Your full co-operation is expected to ensure that this material remains confidential.
You may also come across information on rare breeding bird sites. This must be regarded as confidential and must not be disclosed to, or discussed with, anyone not directly connected with the RSPB.
If there is a problem
We will do our best to make your volunteering enjoyable and worthwhile. Occasionally, problems do occur. Problems that arise during your stay at a reserve should initially be raised with the staff member supervising you or, if this is not appropriate, with the warden. If a problem cannot be resolved on site, you should contact the Volunteering Development Department at the RSPB UK Headquarters, on 01767 680551. The RSPB reserves the right to refuse applications for volunteering. The RSPB will support the right of a warden to send volunteers away from a reserve should their behaviour compromise the safety, project or general performance of the team.
Homes for newts on Ramsey Island Ramsey Island has several shallow ponds in acid rich soils. They are nationally important for some of the UK’s rarest aquatic plants but some are also full of newts. There are no frogs or toads on the island, but the newts represent amphibians here, and both palmate and smooth newts are found in these damp areas
“I had a fantastic time at South Stack. I really enjoyed talking with visitors in the centre and interpreting wildlife on the reserve. Seeing a family of stoats and courting puffins were two highlights of my visit.”
Although not more than 10 cm long, male palmate newts are relatively easy to identify. They have a thin filament which extends from the tip of the tail, and the back feet are webbed, making them look like tiny black maple leaves. The females are more difficult to tell apart from the similar smooth newt, but palmates have a clear pink or yellow chin whereas smooth newt females have a spotted chin.
Diana Baxter at South Stack
They spend the breeding season in the ponds but then move to land during the rest of the year in damp areas under logs or vegetation. Residential volunteer Mike found a palmate newt several hundred metres away from our nearest pond under some stones at the farm and this set him thinking that we should provide a winter home, nearer to the ponds. Mike got busy building a hibernaculum where newts can spend the winter months. It is a stone construction, just a couple of metres from the pond, with entrance holes to allow the animals easy access. Our construction had to be fairly sturdy to stop curious sheep knocking it down, but in less harsh environments hibernacula for amphibians can be made from earth and rubble. The inside is filled with moss and wood to give perfect protection from the elements and predators during our cold stormy winters.
42
South Stack
Mike building the hibernaculum
43
How to make a booking New volunteers should fill in the form enclosed with this booklet. However, we can accept telephone bookings from volunteers who have been on the scheme before and for whom we have taken up references. Please read the information on pages 6–7, and 40–43 carefully. Take into consideration the distance you will need to travel, the nature of the work, the remoteness of the location and style of accommodation when making your application. The Residential Volunteering Booking Office will be happy to answer your queries from Monday to Friday, 9.30 am to 1 pm (tel: 01767 680551). Outside these hours, an answerphone will take any messages. Alternatively, you can e-mail us at: vwsbookings@rspb.org.uk
Before signing the application form, you must read and agree to the following: I understand and agree that: • accommodation is provided for me, free of charge, but only for the period during which I am volunteering for the RSPB. I am responsible for all travel expenses to my volunteering location and for providing my own food during my stay. • the RSPB cannot guarantee whether or not there will be anyone else volunteering during my stay, or the gender of other volunteers. Therefore, it is possible I will be alone in the accommodation in a remote location. • insurance for my personal effects is my responsibility. • I must have a good level of conversational English for health and safety reasons. • I may be working with confidential information and I will keep any such material confidential. • I will adhere to and observe the RSPB’s policies and good practice when volunteering with, or around, young people. I know of no reason why I might be considered unsuitable to work with young people and vulnerable adults. • I have completed the medical information and criminal conviction sections of the application form, if relevant, and I give my consent to this information being processed by the RSPB. • If the information declared on the application form is found to be incorrect, it may disqualify me from this role, or result in the termination of my volunteering. • The RSPB may take up references from the referees I have provided and I give my consent to this information being processed by the RSPB. I understand that my volunteering is subject to satisfactory references.
Please complete and sign the application form (enclosed) and return it to: The Volunteering Development Department (Residential) The RSPB, UK Headquarters The Lodge, Sandy Bedfordshire SG19 2DL
44
You must allow up to 28 days for your application to be processed, as we take up references for all volunteers.
“Completely brilliant – kind, informative, friendly, inclusive – the experience was unforgettable!” Adeline O’Keeffe at Insh Marshes
It is advisable to apply as early as possible – preferably three months in advance for vacancies in the summer, which are generally over-subscribed. We process applications on a strictly first-come, first-served basis. Unfortunately, we do not have the staff time to acknowledge receipt of every application, but we will do our best to keep you informed of progress. Please enclose an A4, self-addressed envelope and two first class stamps, with your application. This will mean more money goes towards conservation. Thank you. If you wish to book more than one period of volunteering (for example, not consecutive weeks), please make this clear in an accompanying note. We reserve the right to make changes to the availability of places, and the number of volunteers accepted, in accordance with changes of circumstances on the reserves.
What if you need to cancel?
If you have to cancel your booking, it is extremely important that you let the Booking Office and the warden of the reserve know as soon as possible, even if this is at the last minute. Helping in the hide
Thank you for your invaluable support All of the donations made via the Residential volunteering application form help us make a real difference for nature, as typically 90p of every £1 of net income donated goes towards our vital conservation work.
Insh Marshes
45
Nearer to home If you are interested in occasional volunteering on a reserve close to you, or volunteering in another capacity, please contact either the warden at that reserve, or the Volunteering Development Officer at your nearest country or regional office as listed below. For up-to-date volunteering opportunities you can also visit our website at rspb.org.uk/volunteering
England
Scotland
Midlands Regional Office
Scotland Headquarters
46 The Green, South Bar, Banbury, Oxfordshire OX16 9AB Tel: 01295 253330 Covers: Buckinghamshire, Derbyshire, Herefordshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Rutland, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and Worcestershire.
Eastern England Regional Office
Stalham House, 65 Thorpe Road, Norwich NR1 1UD Tel: 01603 661662 Covers: Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
London Area Office
Second Floor, 65 Petty France, London SW1H 9EU Tel: 020 7808 1240 Covers: Greater London.
Northern England Regional Office
Westleigh Mews, Wakefield Road, Denby Dale, Huddersfield HD8 8QD Tel: 01484 861148
East Scotland Regional Office
10 Albyn Terrace, Aberdeen AB10 1YP Tel: 01224 624824 Covers: Shetland, Orkney, Aberdeenshire, Moray, Perth and Kinross, and Fife and Angus.
North Scotland Regional Office
Etive House, Beechwood Park, Inverness IV2 3BW Tel: 01463 715000 Covers: Western Isles and Highland.
South and West Scotland Regional Office 10 Park Quadrant, Glasgow G3 6BS Tel: 0141 331 0993
Covers: Argyll and Bute, Borders, Clackmannan, Dumbarton and Clydebank, Dumfries and Galloway, East Ayrshire, East Dunbartonshire, East Lothian, East Renfrewshire, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Glasgow, Midlothian, North Ayrshire, North Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, Stirling and West Lothian.
Wales
South East England Regional Office
Wales Headquarters
Covers: Berkshire, East Sussex, Hampshire,Isle of Wight, Kent, Surrey and West Sussex.
Covers: Wales.
South West England Regional Office
Keble House, Southernhay Gardens, Exeter, Devon EX1 1NT Tel: 01392 432691 Covers: the former county of Avon, Channel Islands, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire.
Northern Ireland Headquarters
Belvoir Park Forest, Belfast BT8 7QT Tel: 028 9049 1547 Covers: Northern Ireland and Isle of Man.
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Mark Groves, Eastern England Volunteer Intern
Ground Floor, 2 Lochside View, Edinburgh Park, Edinburgh EH12 9DH Tel: 0131 317 4100
Covers: Cheshire, Cumbria, East Riding of Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside, Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, North East Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire, Northumberland, South Yorkshire,Tyne and Wear and West Yorkshire. 1st Floor, Pavilion View, 19 New Road, Brighton BN1 1UF Tel: 01273 775333
“If someone had told me two years ago that I would be qualified to drive a tractor and spray pesticides, I would have thought they had flown over the cuckoo’s nest!”
Sutherland House, Castlebridge, Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff CF11 9AB Tel: 029 2035 3000
North Wales Office
North Wales Office, Unit 14, Llys Castan, Parc Menai, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 4FD Tel: 01248 672850.
For more information about residential volunteering, please contact: The Volunteering Development Department (Residential) The RSPB, UK Headquarters The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL Tel: 01767 680551 E-mail: vwsbookings@rspb.org.uk
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As a charity, the RSPB depends on the goodwill and financial support of people like you. Please visit rspb.org.uk/supporting or call 01767 680551 to find out more. The RSPB UK Headquarters The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL Tel: 01767 680551 Scotland Headquarters 2 Lochside View, Edinburgh Park, Edinburgh EH12 9DH Tel: 0131 317 4100
Northern Ireland Headquarters Belvoir Park Forest, Belfast BT8 7QT Tel: 028 9049 1547 Wales Headquarters Sutherland House, Castlebridge, Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff CF11 9AB Tel: 029 2035 3000
rspb.org.uk The RSPB is the country’s largest nature conservation charity, inspiring everyone to give nature a home.
All images copyright (rspb-images.com) unless otherwise specified. Cover: Dry-stone wall repair by Andy Hay. Page 2: Oystercatchers by Ben Hall. Page 3: Kate Tycer and Jane Shah by Jackie Bruce (RSPB). Page 4: RSPB Loch Garten team by Richard Thaxton (RSPB). Page 5: Alan Kell by Isobel Donovan (RSPB). Page 6–7: Geltsdale by Phil Burfield (RSPB). Page 9: water vole by Ben Andrew. Page 10: Bearded tit by Ben Andrew and Bempton Cliffs by Mike Richards. Page 11: Dartford warbler by Ben Hall (RSPB) and bluebells by Andy Hay. Page 12: Tom Broadhurst by Tom Broadhurt (RSPB). Page 13: roseate tern by Chris Gomersall and Haweswater reserve by Andy Hay. Page 14: jewel wasp by Nicola Stables (RSPB) and Dorset pig by Mark Singleton. Page 15: Dungeness by Rose Manby (RSPB) and drake teal by Andy Hay. Page 16: kingfisher by Ben Andrew. Page 17: emperor dragonfly by Steve Knell and redshank by Andy Hay. Page 18: lapwing and Haweswater reserve by Andy Hay. Page 19: Leighton Moss by David Mower (RSPB) and Strumpshaw Fen by Andy Hay. Page 20: Konik ponies by David Tipling and grass snake by Steve Knell. Page 21: Old Hall Marshes by Paul Charlton (RSPB). Page 22: little egrets by Ray Kennedy and Somerset Levels by David Kjaer. Page 23: sand lizard by George McCarthy and Hampshire heath by Mike Read. Page 24: Farnham heath by Andy Hay and Isabel Morgan by Mike Coates (RSPB). Page 25: Symonds Yat by RSPB and Titchwell by Andy Hay. Page 26: fulmar by Ray Kennedy. Page 27: whooper swan by Ben Hall and Rathlin Island by Andy Hay. Page 28: otter by David Tipling. Page 29: Capercaillie by Ben Andrew and Greater Spotted Woodpecker by Alan Moffet. Page 30: Osprey by Chris Gomersall and data recording by Andy Hay. Page 31: fire beaters by Leslie Charlie (RSPB) and Common spotted orchid by Andy Hay. Page 32: Loch Garten by Chris Gomersall. Page 33: Mull of Oa and adjusting sluice by Andy Hay. Page 34: Loch of Strathbeg by Andy Hay and natterjack toad by Edwin Kats. Page 35: Mull of Galloway and Onziebust beach by Andy Hay. Page 36: corncrake by Andy Hay and puffin by Helen Moncrieff (RSPB). Page 37: small tortoiseshell butterfly by Grahame Madge. Page 38: RSPB Lake Vyrnwy by Eleanor Bentall and Ramsey Island by Chris Gomersall. Page 39: South Stack by Ben Hall and Ynys-hir by Jenny Hibbert. Page 40: post ramming by Andy Hay and volunteer event by Eleanor Bentall. Page 40: Rathlin Island by Andy Hay. Page 41: South Stack Café by Andy Stokes (RSPB). Page 43: Mike building hub by Lisa Morgan (RSPB). Page 44: family event by Eleanor Bentall. Page 45: Insh Marshes by Andy Hay. Page 47: cuckoo by John Bridges. The RSPB is a registered charity in England and Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654. 363-0468-14-15