a million voices for nature
Do something different
Residential volunteering
on RSPB nature reserves
2013
2
Cover:
Volunteers doing
a wild flower
survey at RSPB
Dungeness
reserve.
This page:
RSPB Ynys-Hir
reserve.
2
Thank you…
…for enquiring about the RSPB’s
Residential Volunteering Scheme.
We hope this brochure inspires you to
step up for nature. Or maybe you are
one of our many regulars looking for
another of our fantastic reserves or
projects to share your talents with.
Whichever you are, we would love to
welcome you in 2013!
It doesn’t matter if you are 16 or over 75; are looking
to kick-start a career in conservation or want a week
or two to get away from it all – there’s definitely
something here for you. Don’t take our word for it –
read the real-life accounts on pages 5, 13, 29 and 50
to see how previous residential volunteers have
enjoyed helping nature.
Space is limited for all our wardens to sufficiently
enthuse about their reserves and projects – we’ve
had to keep them to the essentials! We allowed
one warden a bit more room on page 16 to describe
some of the tasks volunteers will be involved in.
The quotes throughout are from some of the
residential volunteers in 2012 – just from a few, as
there were over 700 in total! That’s the equivalent
of more than 60 extra full-time members of staff
carrying out vital conservation work, welcoming
visitors to our reserves and sharing a passion for
nature and our mission to conserve it.
Half of those 700 are young people (and sometimes
not so young!) volunteering for six months or more
to build up their knowledge and expertise to get a
foot on the first rung of the conservation ladder.
Take a look at what one of our interns thought
of her placement on page 21 – these are the
wardens of the future! The other half are a hugely
diverse bunch, from every sector of the community,
but they all have one thing in common; they enjoy
nature and are prepared to give us their time to
help preserve it for future generations.
We hope you will too!
Kate Tycer
Residential Volunteering
Development Officer
Contents
WANT TO
VOLUNTEER
ON ONE OF OUR
RESERVES?
28
Scotland
29
YOUR WORDS
Jack Common
5
CASE STUDY
Beki Williams
37
Wales
40
6
YOUR QUESTIONS
ANSWERED
MORE QUESTIONS
ANSWERED
44
8
RESERVES MAP
9
England
HOW TO MAKE
A BOOKING
With tear-out
application form
13
YOUR WORDS
Rachel Cartwright
46
HAVE FUN AND
HELP THE
ENVIRONMENT
16
A WARDEN’S VIEW
Dungeness
48
OTHER WAYS TO
VOLUNTEER
LIFE AS AN INTERN
Briony Baxter
50
YOUR WORDS
Jenny Curtis-Beard
51
CONTACT US
4
21
26
Northern Ireland
Why we’re asking you
to Step Up For Nature
Nature is amazing. But around the UK and across the
world it’s in steady, desperate decline. We’re determined
to stop this happening. But we need your help.
Every step you take for nature, however small, you will
take alongside millions of others. You’ll be part of
something big. A vast movement for nature, giving
strength to nature’s voice and encouraging governments
to make the right decisions.
Nature’s in trouble. Let’s step up and save it – together.
www.rspb.org.uk/steppingup
Jane Shah
Residential Volunteering
Co-ordinator
3
3
Residential volunteer interns Nick Godden,
Kayleigh Brookes and Jone Ayres at
Coombes Valley viewing platform
Want to volunteer on
one of our reserves?
The RSPB Residential Volunteering Scheme began in the
late 1970s, and now, after more than 30 years, we offer
places at 43 sites in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland
and Wales.
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 work,
For more information about our work or joining the RSPB,
please contact our UK Headquarters (see back cover).
Find out more: www.rspb.org.uk
WE AIM TO MAKE SURE OUR
WE ASK OUR VOLUNTEERS TO:
RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTEERS:
•
•
•
•
understand what the RSPB is and does
•
•
know who they can talk to if there are problems
4
•
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.
be reliable and responsible – you are acting as
representatives of the RSPB
•
•
are properly valued – and thanked
know to whom they are answerable
adhere to the RSPB’s rules, procedures and standards,
including health and safety and equal opportunities
receive appropriate training and supervision
or difficulties
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
are part of the team and included in appropriate
social events
extend to your fellow volunteers and staff the same
degree of courtesy you would expect to receive
feel welcome
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
maintain accommodation in a clean, safe and tidy state.
CASE
STUDY
From the office to building pixie dens:
what a way to spend a year
Starting a career in conservation
‘‘
In January 2011, I was stuck in a job I didn’t enjoy, in an
I also found running events really rewarding. I ran a wide
office with the air con on and the blinds drawn. I really
variety of events: kids’ activities like building pixie dens and
needed a connection with the outside world.
nature inspired crafts, and adult and family events including
I stumbled across the RSPB internship on the internet one
bat walks. They’re a great chance to talk with visitors and help
them make the most of what the reserve has to offer.
evening. I worked out that I needed some real hands-on
experience if I was ever going to get into my dream job in
Talking to visitors has been a real highlight for me. It’s
conservation. It is one of the best decisions I have ever made!
particularly rewarding when they come back to the visitor
Not only did I get to leave behind the office job, but it’s been a
centre and thank you because they’ve had such a great time,
year crammed full of amazing experiences.
seen the wildlife you told them about and more.
My year as a visitor and publicity volunteer intern was split
I’ve learnt so much this last year, my wildlife knowledge has
between two reserves: Fairburn Ings in Yorkshire and Leighton
improved significantly, so much so I have led guided walks
Moss in north Lancashire.
around the reserve, and can chat to most people about all
sorts of wildlife. I have really enjoyed having such a close
The highlights for me were meeting lots of amazing people.
connection with nature.
The staff and volunteers have been so helpful and supportive,
I’ve learnt so much from them, and made some great friends.
As a result of the experiences I’ve had and skills I’ve
developed during the internship, I have been able to get a job
I never thought I would enjoy talking on the radio, but it’s been
with the RSPB. As I write this, I’m preparing to move to Islay,
a revelation for me, especially when I got the chance to go
a beautiful island off the west coast of Scotland. I didn’t
into the BBC studios in Blackburn and chatted away about
imagine the internship would give me such an
Leighton Moss and the RSPB for about an hour.
amazing opportunity, and I can’t wait to get started.
Beki Williams, RSPB Community
Information and Tourism Officer
based at Loch Gruinart, Islay
’’
‘‘
It is one of the
best decisions
I’ve ever made.
It’s been a year
crammed with
amazing
experiences.
’’
5
‘‘
Thank you for
the opportunity to
volunteer – it was
such a treat, and a
complete tonic
and break from
my day job. .
’’
Lisa Mackinnon,
Operation Osprey
Sunset over Loch Garten
Your questions answered
WHAT DO RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTEERS DO?
undertake tasks within your capabilities. Visitor work that
The work varies from reserve to reserve. It often includes
does not need a high level of physical fitness is also
practical management tasks, working with visitors and
available, especially from March to September.
helping with survey work. Here are some examples:
We ask that you take any essential medication with you
•
•
•
•
•
•
cutting, clearing and burning dead vegetation
and, on arrival, inform the warden of the details. Include
directing visitors to points of interest and showing
details of any medication you take on your booking form.
them wildlife
This information is kept strictly confidential.
counting rare butterflies
staffing visitor centres
The RSPB is committed to equal opportunities.
managing livestock
We believe that volunteering should be open to all,
general chores, eg litter picking, visitor centre cleaning.
regardless of marital status, gender, race, age, colour,
sexual orientation, religion, politics, nationality or
Please note that the RSPB is not a bird or animal welfare
disability. We will do everything reasonably practical to
organisation. We do not have the expertise or facilities
make volunteering available to everybody and to conform
to cater for sick birds, so you will not be involved in work
to all relevant legislation.
of this kind.
Volunteers with a disability are welcome, but please bear
WHO CAN TAKE PART?
in mind that there are limitations at some reserves, owing
Anyone aged 16 or over is eligible to take part, although
to the nature of the accommodation and type of work.
some reserves can only accept over 18s. We can
We advise you to contact the Residential Volunteering
accommodate couples on some reserves, provided that
Development Officer to discuss your needs (see back
both are participating. Each person should complete a
cover for contact details).
separate application form. These applications should be
sent in as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Students seeking work placements should contact the
Look for the symbol
Residential Volunteering Development Officer for advice.
for the reserves suitable for
couples.
Before your stay, please provide, in good time, details of
any project work that you are expected to complete,
Practical management tasks are important aspects of the
together with any paperwork required by your placement
RSPB’s work on most sites and this can be physically
officer. Please note: we do not enter into contracts with or
demanding, although you will only be expected to
on behalf of our volunteers.
6
DO I NEED ANY SPECIAL SKILLS OR EXPERIENCE?
We provide a cooker, cooking utensils, cutlery, crockery,
You will not need special skills for most of the
a fridge and food storage at all reserves. You are expected
volunteering opportunities we have. A genuine interest
to provide and cook all your own food. Unless told
in and enthusiasm for birds and wildlife conservation
otherwise, please take provisions for at least two days:
is essential. You should be willing to help, even with
you will be able to obtain further supplies locally.
mundane jobs. At sites where the work includes
helping visitors to the reserve, you must feel comfortable
Not all accommodation has central heating – some may
talking to people. Volunteers from overseas must have
have an open fire or wood-burning stove instead. Most
good conversational English. Some reserves require
sites require you to bring your own pillowcase and
volunteers who have good bird identification skills and
sheets/duvet cover, or a sleeping bag. Pillows, duvets and
these are noted in the reserve details. Long-term
blankets will be provided. Most but not all reserves have
placements usually require a driving licence so that you
items such as a washing machine, TV, microwave, iron, etc.
can drive RSPB vehicles.
However, TV reception is a problem on a few sites and
internet connection is a rarity. Reserve details containing
IS THERE ANY CHARGE TO TAKE PART?
all this information will be sent to you along with your
There is no charge to take part. However, a suggested
booking confirmation. Please note, all our bedrooms are
donation of £25 towards our administration costs would
single sex. We do not put men and women in the same
enable more to be spent on our vital conservation work.
bedroom unless they are partners or related. If you are
It is your responsibility to cover the cost of your transport
booking with someone else and wish to share a room with
to and from the reserve, and to provide and cover the cost
them, please indicate this on the booking form. We will do
of your food during your stay. The RSPB will provide
our best to accommodate your wishes, but this is not
accommodation, together with basic services, free of
always possible.
charge for the period you are volunteering, and cover any
expenses incurred as a necessary part of your work on the
We cannot guarantee whether or not there will be anyone
reserve. Any out-of-pocket expenses must be agreed with
else volunteering during your stay, or inform you of the
the reserve warden in advance.
gender of other volunteers. It is possible that you will be
alone in the accommodation in a remote location. Please
WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?
consider this when you make your choice of nature reserve.
Accommodation varies from reserve to reserve, but we
Please note: pets are not allowed on RSPB reserves,
aim for it to be safe and clean and to meet basic standards.
or in the volunteer accommodation. All accommodation,
vehicles and buildings are non-smoking.
More FAQs on page 40
KEY
On the following pages you will
find a guide to all our reserve
placements. Each entry will have a
combination of the following icons,
to help you compare the placements
and decide which is best for you.
ST1
LT4
Short-term/longterm placement
and minimum
stay in weeks.
Internship place/s
available, see page
42 for details.
Suitable
for couples.
Research, surveying and
species protection work.
Good bird ID required at
some locations at certain
times of the year.
People engagement work –
membership recruitment,
guided walks, shop/café work
and showing people birds.
Practical estate
maintenance, and
habitat and species
management work.
Livestock farm work
at some locations.
16+
Minimum age.
Volunteering
accommodation at
Frampton Marsh
7
7
Where would you like to go?
Shetland
Orkney
Onziebust and Trumland
Hoy
Western Isles
Forsinard Flows
North
Scotland
Loch of Strathbeg
Abernethy and
Osprey Project
Insh Marshes
East
Scotland
Loch of Kinnordy
Loch Leven
Oronsay
Loch Gruinart
Rathlin Island
Seabird Centre
Northern
Ireland
South and
West
Scotland
Geltsdale
Mersehead
Mull of Galloway
Northern
England
Coquet Island
Haweswater
Saltholme
Leighton Moss
Bempton Cliffs
Fairburn Ings
Blacktoft Sands
Dearne Valley
South Stack Cliffs
Ireland
Titchwell Marsh
Coombes Valley
Strumpshaw
Fen
Frampton
Marsh
Lake Vyrnwy
Ynys-hir
Midlands
Eastern
England
Wales
Minsmere
Havergate
Island
Old Hall Marshes
Ramsey Island
Symonds Yat
North Kent Marshes
West Sedgemoor
South West England
Aylesbeare Common
Arne
Exe
Estuary
8
Radipole Lake
South East
England
Dungeness
Residential volunteering in
ENGLAND
Matford, Exe Estuary
9
ENGLAND
Aylesbeare Common
LT12
18+
Exeter, Devon
What?
This area of heathland is one of the largest outside of the 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?
Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: three placements available all year.
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.
Why?
Practical habitat management work all year round, 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 work. Bracken eradication and stock work are major
Volunteers collecting ins
ects
tasks during summer.
Who?
Call Richard on 01395 233655.
Bempton Cliffs Bridlington, East Yorkshire
What?
LT16
18+
Spectacular 122 m (400ft) 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: one placement available, mid-April to mid-July and
September to February inclusive.
Where?
Railway station at Bempton (1.5 miles/2.4 km from reserve). Local bus
routes to Bempton village (1 mile/1.6 km from reserve). House in
Bempton village, with a single bedroom, shared with the reserve office
and staff accommodation.
Why?
April–mid-July: primarily seabird research, monitoring populations and
breeding success throughout the colony, including Flamborough Head.
Analysis and reporting using Excel, and occasional people engagement
work. September–February inclusive: habitat and estate maintenance,
Cliffs at Bempton
and people engagement work at the visitor centre.
Who?
10
Call Dave on 01262 851179.
Blacktoft Sands Whitgift, Humberside
What?
ST1
16+
This is the largest tidal reedbed in England, where 270 species 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 receives up to 26,000 visitors a year, mostly between
April and September.
When?
Short-term: placements for individuals, couples or a pair 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.
Why?
Physical land management work, estate maintenance, helping
visitors, species protection, reception duties and survey/research
assistance. Some stock or farm work during summer.
Who?
Call Mike on 01405 704665.
Coombes Valley Leek, Staffordshire
What?
Highland cattle
18+
Stunning oak woodland, with steep-sided valleys and a
rocky stream. Dotted with magic at any time of year –
from fly agaric to goldcrests, and purple hairstreak
butterflies to red campion. Coombes is a peaceful reserve with a
visitor centre and several family-friendly trails.
Come and join us on our 50th anniversary year.
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.
Why?
Physical management work for forestry operations involves
maintaining the rides. Estate work, including maintaining 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,
The brook at Coombes
Valley
particularly in spring and summer, may be required. Survey work,
especially in spring and summer. Occasionally moving cattle.
Who?
Call Jarrod on 01538 384017.
11
ENGLAND
ST2 LT6
Coquet Island
18+
Amble, Northumberland
What?
Coquet Island, about one mile off Amble, Northumberland, has been a
monastic cell, a lighthouse station and is now occupied by the RSPB,
NEW FOR 2013!
through spring and summer. Just four hectares at high water, it is
home to a large colony of nesting seabirds. It has the only UK colony
of roseate terns, and in May, June and July, they are joined by several
thousand 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: one placement in March/April and one in August/September.
Where?
The nearest railway station is 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). By
road, turn off the A1 at Morpeth and follow the coastal route to Amble.
Heading south, four miles south of Alnwick, take the turning for Amble
via Acklington. Both routes take you to the A1068 which runs through
Amble. We have a 4.7m rigid inflatable boat, moored at Amble Marina.
Two single bedrooms are available in the newly renovated lighthouse
keeper’s cottage. The kitchen and office are in the old engineers’
quarters to the rear.
Nesting terrace
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. Heating is a log burner fed on driftwood.
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. You are encouraged to take
ownership of tasks, and work at your own pace (training provided).
Coquet Island
12
Who?
Roseate tern
Call Wesley on 07446 023412 or Paul on 07753 775230.
YOUR
WORDS
A volunteer’s perspective of Coquet Island
Rachel Cartwright
‘‘
I could be described as a career volunteer. After finishing
I feel that I have had a positive influence on the island over
my Masters in Ecology, it became apparent that I needed
my stay. Wesley and Paul have helped with this by letting
to get some fresh air away from the library and gain some
me take ownership of tasks and work at my own pace in my
experience in the field. The RSPB seemed the obvious
own way. I was a little worried about joining such a small
organisation to set my sights on, and the thought of
close-knit team before I arrived, but they have made me feel
spending some time on a remote island seemed
more than welcome.
appealing. I put my name down.
My stay is almost over now – and thanks to the
Soon enough I realised what I had volunteered for: no running
encouragement and experience I’ve had on Coquet, I start a
water, no daytime telly and no student bar – was this heaven,
paid job at the end of the month. Not on an island, but on a
or hell? Thankfully it was not the latter and island life has
remote spit of sand looking after little terns. I’ll miss the island
become a way of life. Living in the back of the lighthouse and
and its quirks, but I’m looking forward to a good hot shower.
waking up to a sea view and squawking birds is amazing! It
really makes you appreciate just how much we take those
‘bare necessities’ for granted. The big secret is that open fires,
tilley lamps and home cooking are actually good fun.
Raking on Coquet Island
’’
As for the work – I am not sure whether it would be the same
anywhere else. Painting boxes, putting up hides, raking,
weeding, moving rocks around, digging, mowing all seem to
be all the more fun when you are talking to seals and dancing
with puffins (maybe my stay has been too long!).
I have also been able to expand on some of my field skills:
reading bird rings, seal tags, recording migratory birds, making
CCTV units and on wet days – data entry.
Building the
night hide
‘‘
Painting boxes,
putting up hides,
raking, weeding,
digging, mowing all
seem to be all the
more fun when you
are talking to seals and
dancing with puffins.
..
’’
13
ENGLAND
LT12
Dearne Valley reserves
18+
Barnsley, South Yorkshire
What?
Old Moor is a wetland oasis in this former heartland of the mining
industry. Most of the volunteering work takes place here, but we also
manage four 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, café, play area
and wildlife garden help make this reserve a popular visitor attraction.
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/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
d
the reedbe
Working in
single bed.
Why?
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 Kate on 01226 273831.
LT26
Dorset reserves
Wareham and Weymouth,
Dorset
What?
18+
Arne and Radipole Lake reserves boast extensive freshwater reedbed
systems, saltmarsh, deciduous and pine woodland, and vast stretches of
lowland heath. A network of 10 other sites are spread over 1,000 hectares
of this glorious county. Species include all six of the UK’s reptiles, the
first breeding pairs of marsh harriers in Dorset for over 50 years, Dartford
warblers and nightjars, and Sika and roe deer.
When?
Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: three placements available all year.
Where?
Arne: railway station at Wareham (5 miles/8 km from reserve). Taxis
available at station. Car or bicycle useful. Purpose-built chalet on site
with three single bedrooms.
Radipole: railway station at Weymouth (0.5 miles/0.8 km from reserve).
Car or bicycle useful. A semi-detached house in a residential area, close
to town and the reserve, which also includes the reserve office and staff
accommodation. Two single bedrooms.
Why?
Tasks will include welcoming visitors, joining our roving wardening
team, helping with our busy events programme, as well as more
Fawn in heather
traditional habitat management and estate work. At certain times of the
year we also need assistance with ecological monitoring and research.
14
Who?
Call the team on 01929 553360.
Dungeness Lydd, Kent
What?
LT12
18+
Mile after mile of shingle! A unique landscape, only interrupted by natural
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 bumblee has been reintroduced. There are trails,
hides and a visitor centre and shop.
When?
Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: two placements available all year.
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 Ashford to Lydd bus goes direct to the reserve.
Volunteers have a purpose-built, two single-roomed chalet on the reserve.
This is a remote site.
Why?
Placement one: all year round duties may include all aspects of reserve
Short-haired bumb
lebee
wardening, including practical habitat management, bird and other wildlife
monitoring (depending on time of year), estate and infrastructure
maintenance, administration and occasional people engagement activities.
Placement two: April to September inclusive assisting the visitor centre
team with all aspects of visitor care and publicity, including reception duties,
showing people birds, recruitment, helping with events, writing bulletins,
updating websites and maintaining visitor facilities.
Who?
Placement one: call Natalie on 01797 320588.
Placement two: call Chris on 01797 320588.
Exe Estuary
18+
LT12
Exminster, Devon
What?
The Exe area includes five farmland nature reserves around the 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. There is a new nature reserve at Darts Farm, Matford
Marsh is being extended and 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?
A wide range of tasks, including estate management work, maintenance
of visitor facilities, surveying and monitoring, handling livestock,
running events and controlling flood defences for Exeter. In addition,
there is an opportunity to work closely with the residential volunteers
River Clyst
at Aylesbeare Common, the retail team at Darts Farm and specialist
staff at the South West regional office in Exeter.
Who?
Call Tom on 01392 824614.
15
ENGLAND
A warden’s view
Natalie Holt, Warden, Dungeness
‘‘
How would I describe Dungeness? Unique,
pebbly, wild, amazing and diverse. There’s no
place quite like it. We have a nuclear power station, two
lighthouses and a military range on our doorstep. These add
to the character of the site, and become features that staff
and visitors alike use in photos.
The Thursday work party cut and trans
port reed
We manage the habitats on the reserve for wildlife and also
for people: our modern visitor centre is a key point of call for
30,000 visitors a year. Meeting and greeting, providing
As spring turns to summer and autumn, focus shifts away
information, showing people birds, membership recruitment
from surveys and into general reserve work, including more
and campaigns are all part of life here, so this is a great place
livestock management. This is also the time for carrying out
to be if you’re a people person and enjoy, or want to gain,
large scale tasks, like putting up fences, or painting hides.
experience in promoting and leading events, customer care
and delivering our education programme to hundreds of
In the winter, the reserve is inundated with wildfowl, and it’s a
school children annually.
pleasure to watch huge numbers of ducks dabbling and diving
in the gravel pits. Having cold feet is worth it if you can show
In spring, there’s a lot of survey work to do, so you’ll have to
someone something new.
excuse us if we coax you out of bed at 5 am to drag you along
to hear the song of nightingales or see lapwings displaying!
We wouldn’t achieve any of this without our volunteers. They
bring laughter, enthusiasm and ideas as well as useful skills,
For me, spring and summer have got to be the best time of
knowledge and a variety of experience. The time that
year on the reserve: I can’t think of a better way to spend an
residential volunteers can give us is equivalent to two full time
afternoon than sitting up with a telescope pointing out
members of staff at Dungeness. Just imagine what we can do
bitterns and marsh harriers to our visitors, or searching for
for nature with that!
bumblebees in the wild flower meadows.
So how have I arrived here at Dungeness doing my dream
job? Well, because residential volunteering gave me the
conservation bug. So why not come to the RSPB’s oldest
reserve, and find out what it’s all about for yourself.
Brian takes
16
a break at lu
nch time af
ter
island willow
clearance
‘Julibee’ helping out during Bee Week
’’
Fairburn Ings
ST2
16+
Castleford, Yorkshire
What?
Its large shallow lakes and marshes make this reserve important for
wildfowl and wading birds, both breeding and over-wintering.
Situated on the River Aire and including 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.
Why?
Estate maintenance and habitat management work is the main
mid-week activity throughout the year. This can be physically
demanding and repetitive. Weekend work revolves around helping
Pond dipping at Fairbu
rn
Ings
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 Steve on 01977 628192 or Karen on 01977 628193.
Frampton Marsh Boston, Lincolnshire
What?
18+
On the edge of The Wash – the largest and most important 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.
Moulted shells of yo
ung
crabs on the saltm
arsh
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.
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 (see picture on page 7).
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 and Publicity Officer with
welcoming and recruiting visitors, events, producing interpretation,
and promoting the reserve through traditional and new media.
Who?
Call Graham on 01205 724678.
17
ENGLAND
Geltsdale Brampton, Cumbria
What?
LT4
18+
Breathtaking fell views sum up this large and remote upland site
showcasing moorland, woodland and farmland. Geltsdale forms the
north-western part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty. Annually, 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.
When?
Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: one or two placements available all year.
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
one double bedroom, 1 mile/1.6 km from the office.
Why?
Upland conservation work including fencing, dry-stone walling and
footpath maintenance. Monitoring, protection and survey work is
available at certain times of the year. There will be the opportunity to
Geltsdale
assist with visitor work on guided walks, reception and recruitment.
This work can be physically demanding and in all weathers.
Who?
Call Ian on 01697 746717.
Havergate Island Orford, Suffolk
What?
ST1
18+
This small island in the River Ore is famous for breeding terns and
gulls, which can usually be seen in spring and summer. In autumn and
winter, Havergate provides a haven for large numbers of ducks and
wading birds, and is a great place to see brown hares at close range.
When?
Short-term: two placements available, May to September (maximum of
two weeks).
Long-term: no placements available.
Where?
Railway station at Woodbridge (11 miles/17.8 km from reserve). Taxi
service available from Woodbridge to Orford quay, then boat to the
island. Two self-contained chalets on the island with electricity
(wind-powered) for lighting, gas heating and gas cooking. There is a
small fridge. Water supply (but no bathroom/shower) and outside
chemical toilet only. One single and one twin bedroom.
Why?
Estate management, maintenance and repair, helping visitors, species
protection work and survey/research assistance is required from spring
r Lesley helping
Regular voluntee
e hide
to smarten up th
until autumn. These tasks can be physically demanding and volunteers
must be able to walk long distances over rough terrain. Volunteers are
sometimes on their own on the island. We have a wind turbine so if
you would like to bring a mobile phone and mains charger you
will be able to use it. It may not be possible to leave the island
during your stay. A very remote site.
18
Who?
Call Kieren on 01394 450732.
Haweswater
ST2 LT 6
18+
Penrith, Cumbria
What?
Ruggedly romantic, this reserve is most famous for holding
England’s only golden eagle territory. It’s a mixture of woodland and
Dry stone wall at Ha
weswater
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), with
pick-up by prior arrangement. Buses twice a week. Car or bicycle
useful. Farmhouse with three single bedrooms on the reserve.
Why?
Physical land management work in summer, autumn and winter.
This can be physically demanding and repetitive. Helping visitors in
spring and summer at the eagle viewing site. Species protection is
also undertaken in the spring and summer. Survey/research
assistance is required in spring and summer if you have specialist
skills. At all times of the year some manual work is required,
including bracken cutting, helping in the tree nursery and
tree planting.
Who?
Call Spike on 01931 713376.
‘‘
Working in the
tree nursery is
ideal for me as
I am not good
at hill walking.
This is exactly
the kind of
exercise I find
beneficial.
’’
Robert Mackintosh,
Haweswater
Haweswater
19
ENGLAND
Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay
18+
Silverdale, Lancashire
What?
A great bird reserve, Leighton Moss has them all – bitterns in the
reedbeds, marsh harriers over the grassland and avocets in the
Oystercatchers taking flight at
Leighton Moss
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.
When?
Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: three interns only – two practical and one
people engagement.
Where?
Railway station at Silverdale, next to reserve. Lancaster 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.
Why?
Practical – spring/summer: breeding wader and predator project survey
work, includes butterfly transects and practical tasks. Autumn/winter:
habitat/estate management and maintenance, eg 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 birds, recruiting members, events and maintaining facilities.
Who?
Practical: call Richard on 01524 703014, people engagement: call
Annabel on 01524 703017.
LT12
Mid Yare Valley
18+
Strumpshaw, Norwich, Norfolk
What?
Situated in the Norfolk Broads along the banks of the River Yare, this
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
wildfowl and wading birds in the winter.
When?
Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: two or three placements available all year.
Where?
Railway station at Brundall (2 miles/3.2 km from reserve). Bicycle
and/or car useful but not essential. Detached cottage on the reserve
with three single bedrooms.
Why?
Typically, habitat management involves fen management in late
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 might include
breeding bird surveys in spring and summer, butterfly and dragonfly
Norfolk hawker on iris
monitoring in 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.
20
People engagement opportunities available through the summer.
Who?
Call Ben on 01603 715191.
Minsmere Westleton, Saxmundham, Suffolk
What?
LT12
18+
Minsmere is one of the RSPB’s flagship reserves, featuring an 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 over 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.
When?
Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: practical volunteers: two placements available September to
March; one placement June to August; and one intern all year.
People engagement volunteers: one intern March to August.
Where?
Railway station at Darsham (5 miles/8 km from reserve) where 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?
Practical – land management work, estate maintenance, helping visitors,
Wading avocet
species protection, reception duties and survey/research assistance.
Some stock/farm work during summer. People engagement – assisting the
visitor centre team with all aspects of visitor care and publicity. Showing
people birds, recruiting members, events and maintaining facilities.
Who?
Call Louise on 01728 648780.
Bittern ‘listening
post’
YOUR
WORDS
Life as a reserve intern
‘‘
I’ve been a residential intern
at RSPB Minsmere for three
months and I’ve really enjoyed the
challenge of trying a diverse range of
activities.
Volunteering is not just for the
youngsters – I’m in my fifties. If
you’re considering a career change I
can really recommend some time
spent volunteering. It not only allows
a potential employer to see what you
have to offer, but you can build on
your existing skills and get a feel for
a completely different type of job and
working environment. It has certainly
paid off for me: I’ve just been offered
employment with one of the Wildlife
Trusts. I doubt that would have
happened without my experience
with the RSPB so I’m very grateful
that I had the chance.
Briony Baxter
st’ at
‘listening po
Bumblebee
Minsmere
’’
21
River watch hide
ENGLAND
North Kent Marshes
LT26
18+
Rochester, Kent
What?
A diverse range of sites between Gravesend in the west 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: two or three placements available all year.
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?
Habitat management on grazing marsh, woodland and saline 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.
Grey heron with eel
Who?
Call Elliott on 01634 222480.
Old Hall Marshes
LT26
18+
Maldon, Essex
What?
Old Hall Marshes is a fragment of the once plentiful 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, 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.
Long-term: one placement available all year, plus one intern.
Where?
Railway and coach station at Colchester (14 miles/22 km from 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.
Why?
Assisting with habitat and estate management, and monitoring
of birds and other wildlife. Also, livestock-related tasks.
Ruddy darter
22
Who?
Call Suzanne on 01621 869015.
Saltholme Near Middlesbrough, Tees Valley
What?
LT12
18+
Nestled in the Tees Valley, surrounded by many industrial neighbours,
Saltholme offers a dramatic landscape and stunning wildlife. Hundreds
of pairs of common terns breed on cockleshell islands in the summer
Newly-hatched golde
n plover chicks
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.
Where?
Railway station at Middlesbrough (7.2 miles/11.5 km from the 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 – spacious first-floor flat with
views of the sea. It has two double bedrooms, one single bedroom, and
fish and chips are just across the road! Direct bus route to the reserve.
Why?
Long-term placement 1 and 2: working alongside the estate 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.
Who?
Call Keith on 01642 546625.
Somerset reserves
LT26
18+
Langport, Somerset
What?
West Sedgemoor is an internationally important area of low-lying wet
meadows, attracting large numbers of ducks, geese and wading birds in
winter. Greylake is a relatively new wet grassland reserve, reverted from
arable crops, and an overwintering site for waders and wildfowl. Swell Wood
is an ancient woodland that supports 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 and water voles.
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 rooms have a double bed and the other has two single beds).
Why?
Placements one and two: management of grassland in summer and autumn,
including work with livestock. Estate management including fencing and
water control structures. Hedge laying, coppicing and other woodland
management in autumn and winter. Survey work mostly March to June.
Occasional species protection and patrolling throughout the year. Work can
Species-rich wet m
eadow in
flower at West Se
dgemoor
be physically demanding, especially in winter.
Placement three (November–May): Visitor work and people engagement,
guided walks, events and membership recruitment on all four
Somerset reserves.
Who?
Call Paul or Becky on 01458 252805.
23
ENGLAND
Symonds Yat Raptors on the Rock Project
ST2
18+
Near Coleford, Gloucestershire
What?
Symonds Yat Raptors on the Rock Project is perched 500 feet above the
River Wye, with spectacular views of the Coldwell Cliffs where
ye
the River W
View over
peregrines nest. This is a Forestry Commission site and there is a public
viewpoint but no hide.
When?
Short-term: April to August only. Preferable commitment of two weeks.
Long-term: no placements available.
Where?
Railway station at Lydney (7 miles/10 km from the viewpoint). Pick-up
from Lydney by prior arrangement. Bike/car useful, as accommodation
is 2 miles/3.2 km from the site. A 15-foot caravan with one double and
one single bed to accommodate one person, a couple or two friends.
Why?
Recruiting new members, welcoming visitors, showing them 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?
Call Hannah on 01594 562852, or call the Information Assistant (April to
August) on 07736 792511.
‘‘
Thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you RSPB for being an
organisation I was proud to represent.
’’
Susan Paice, Symonds Yat Rock
Peregrine female at nest with chicks
24
Titchwell Marsh Hunstanton, Norfolk
What?
ST1 LT26
16+
Situated on the north Norfolk coast, Titchwell is one of the best
places for 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 been opened. There is also a
busy visitor centre, shop and café. Come and join us on our 40th
anniversary year.
When?
Short-term: one placement available from June to August.
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
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?
Winter: habitat and estate management including reed cutting,
scrub control, boardwalk and hide maintenance. Survey work to
include Wetland Bird Survey and wintering harrier counts. Regular
Otter eating fish
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.
Dune tiger beet
le
‘‘
There was so
much going on
and so many
varied tasks. I
enjoyed every
minute and will
never forget it.
’’
Philip Plummer, Titchwell
Titchwell Marsh reserve
25
Residential volunteering in
NORTHERN
IRELAND
26
Rathlin Island
western sea stacks
Rathlin Island Seabird Centre
ST2 LT4
18+
County Antrim
What?
Rathlin Island is Northern Ireland’s only inhabited island, with a
small resident community of approximately 100 people and a huge
100,000-strong seabird breeding colony. The RSPB Seabird Centre is
based at a cliffside lighthouse within a National Nature Reserve. We
welcome an international complement of over 15,000 visitors during
the summer, all eager to see puffins, fulmars, kittiwakes, razorbills and
the cliffs packed with guillemots.
When?
Short-term: up to seven placements available April to early September.
Long-term: one or two placements available late March to early
September, and one intern.
Where?
See www.translink.co.uk and arrange your transport with advice from
RSPB island staff. 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. It is also
possible to bus indirectly all the way to Ballycastle from any arrival
destination in Northern Ireland. Booking the ferry is essential from
Ballycastle to Rathlin – please make contact with RSPB staff before
booking this journey. Cottage hostel 3 miles/5 km from village and
Puffin
amenities, and 1 mile/1.6 km from Seabird Centre. Access to Seabird
Centre is on foot over rough tracks, through unfenced cattle and via
steep steps. There is one bedroom for up to three volunteers and a
dormitory-style room for four. Very poor mobile phone reception in the
house, but OK within a short distance. Limited access to small grocery
ills
Guillemots and razorb
ck
sta
in
on the ma
shop on your days off. A private minibus service operates during the
day that may let you hop on for free (space permitting), and bicycles
are available, but the terrain is hilly. It would be an advantage to
bring a car.
Why?
Working within a small team, this is a fun role involving meeting and
greeting visitors, showing them the seabirds from an outdoor viewing
platform, and enthusing, educating and recruiting new members.
Also occasionally taking part in community activities to build and retain
support for our conservation work. Specialist bird knowledge
is not required but good people/communication skills are vital.
International volunteers must speak very good English.
Who?
Call the Seabird Centre staff on 028 2076 0062 or 07793 269393 (April
to August only) or call Tim McCann at Northern Ireland Headquarters
on 028 9049 1547.
‘‘
I had a wonderful experience!
I felt really looked after and part
of the team.
’’
Stephanie Burns, Rathlin Island
27
Residential volunteering in
SCOTLAND
28
Abernethy reserve
Abernethy
ST1 LT20
16+
Nethybridge, Inverness-shire
What?
One of the many jewels in Scotland’s crown. A very large, diverse
reserve, situated in the centre of the mighty Cairngorms National Park,
containing Scots pine woodland, lochs, moorland, peatland, bog and
mountains. One of the finest areas of Caledonian pinewood left in
Scotland, home to the spectacular capercaillie and other rare species
such as crested tits, Scottish crossbills and pine martens.
When?
Short-term: two placements available from mid-September to 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 warden’s family and reserve
offices. Volunteers have two twin-bedded rooms with shared kitchen.
Why?
Physical land management work throughout the year may include
woodland management, heather burning and cutting, deer
management, fence repair, bird/animal population monitoring, other
Juvenile pine marte
n
research work and general estate maintenance. This work is strenuous
and involves a considerable amount of walking over difficult terrain.
Who?
Call Alice on 01479 821409.
YOUR
WORDS
A week in Abernethy
‘‘
Abernethy is an RSPB
reserve in the centre of the
Cairngorms National Park. It’s here
that I found myself doing a week’s
volunteering in August. What a week!
The first day, the weather was glorious.
We were up on the edge of the forest,
and the sun shone down from a crystal
sky. The dogs bounded across the
hillside, and the hiss of heather
underfoot was only interrupted by the
clatter of black grouse as they erupted
from invisibility.
On another sunny day, in the blaeberry
mats that the capercaillie love, a huge
black male caper exploded from the
undergrowth, and swooped almost
overhead through the dappled light
between the trees.
Whilst standing in a bog forest, in a
cloud of midges, a pine marten
appeared around a tree a few metres
from me. Rather than making a dash, it
simply sat and watched me. It moved
into better view and, as if finally
deciding I was a threat, it bounced along
the sodden ground to its burrow, and
was swallowed by the forest.
The meeting with the pine marten
encapsulated everything about
volunteering at Abernethy. With the time
and energy you spend there, you build a
personal and private relationship with
the nature you’re helping to protect.
Rather than a fleeting experience of a
day out at a reserve, you are privilege to
a unique connection with the wildlife,
landscape and the people that live and
work in it. Volunteering will change how
you look at nature. Quite simply,
residential volunteering is one of the
most fantastic things I’ve ever done.
Anyone who turns down the chance is
seriously missing out.
by Jack Common, aged 17
Residential
volunteering is one
of the most
fantastic things
I’ve ever done.
........
’’
Jack Common
29
SCOTLAND
Abernethy – Operation Osprey
ST1
18+
Loch Garten, Abernethy, Inverness-shire
What?
Part of Abernethy reserve, this project provides 24-hour protection of
breeding ospreys, and public viewing facilities. Loch Garten Osprey
Centre is the base, with fantastic views of these birds, as well as live
CCTV camera footage from the nests, shown on screens in the visitor
centre. 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. The accommodation is
2.5 miles/4 km from the visitor centre, but is a nice, easy walk.
Why?
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
Adult osprey in flig
ht
information about the ospreys. International volunteers must speak
very good English.
Who?
Call Richard on 01479 821409 or call the Information Officer on 01479
831648 (from end of March to end of August, evenings only).
Forsinard Flows
ST2 LT6
18+
Caithness and Sutherland
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.
Where?
Railway station at Forsinard, next to the reserve office. House with
four single bedrooms for volunteers, on the reserve.
Why?
Estate management and peatland/forestry survey work is carried 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
Forsinard Flows
amount of walking in remote upland areas. Map and compass
navigation skills desirable.
30
Who?
Call Claire on 01641 571225.
Hoy
ST4 LT20
18+
Orkney
What?
Hoy is the ‘high island’ of Orkney and is a haven for walkers and
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 in the steep-sided valleys –
most notably in Berriedale, Britain’s most northerly native woodland.
When?
Short-term: one or two placements available from April to July.
Long-term: one or two placements available between April and
August inclusive.
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
Femke volunteering on
identification skills required April to mid-July. Work may be strenuous
Hoy
and involve a considerable amount of walking in remote upland areas.
Who?
Call Kate or Jane on 01767 680551.
Insh Marshes
ST1 LT6
18+
Kingussie, Inverness-shire
What?
One of Europe’s most valuable wetlands, this reserve has extensive
Roe deer buck
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 wild flowers,
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?
Short-term: one or two placements available all year.
Long-term: one or two placements available all year.
Where?
Railway and coach station at Kingussie (5 miles/8 km from cottage).
Car/bicycle useful. Cottage with one single and two twin bedrooms,
next to the reserve office, in the village of Insh.
Why?
Mostly physical land management work, such as fencing, scrub
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.
31
SCOTLAND
Loch Gruinart and The Oa
ST2 LT6
18+
Islay, Argyll
t
Loch Gruinar
What?
Loch Gruinart is a shallow sea loch. At its mouth are sandy 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. The reserve
is managed as a working farm. In the summer, it bursts into colour with
meadows of wild flowers. Hen harriers hunt over the heath and
corncrakes can be heard until the end of July. Also on Islay, The Oa
nature reserve has cliffs, coastal heath, rich meadows and open
moorland.
When?
Short-term: one or two placements available all year.
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 (200 beef cows and 200 sheep). In July and early
August you will assist with guided walks, events, membership
recruitment and manning the visitor centre. There is a lot of manual
work and you will be outside in all weathers. Practical skills and bird
knowledge desirable.
Who?
Call Mary on 01496 850505.
Corncrake
Roseland Peninsula
‘‘
I will never
be able to
thank the
staff at Loch
Gruinart
enough for
making my
stay so
comfortable
32
’’
Ignasi Oliveras,
Loch Gruinart
Bottlenose dolphins
Loch of Kinnordy
LT6
18+
Kirriemuir, Angus
What?
Loch of Kinnordy is a wetland oasis made up of open water and fen,
along with a small margin of woodland, and is surrounded by
farmland. Spring brings breeding wading birds, ospreys and otters
to the loch, while in winter, whooper swans join the assemblage of
wildfowl. Visitor facilities are limited to three hides and a footpath that
links the reserve to nearby Kirriemuir.
When?
Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: one or two placements available March to October
inclusive.
Where?
The nearest railway stations are Dundee (21 miles/34 km from
the reserve) and Perth (30 miles/48 km). Buses link Kirriemuir
(2 miles/3.2 km) to both towns. A shared flat with two double bedrooms
for volunteers above the reserve workshop, within Kinnordy Estate
properties (about 1 mile/1.6 km from Kirriemuir).
Why?
The emphasis through the summer is the upkeep of visitor areas (hide,
paths etc), people engagement and membership recruitment. There are
opportunities to get involved with survey work at Kinnordy and the Tay
Reedbeds. Most habitat management is carried out from July onwards,
Marsh harrie
rs with prey
including hand-pulling vegetation from the loch, vegetation cutting on
wet grassland, ditch maintenance and scrub management.
Who?
Call Kim on 01738 630783.
Loch Leven
LT12
18+
Perth & Kinross
What?
Previously known as Vane Farm, this is a popular visitor destination
30 minutes north of Edinburgh, which 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 wildfowl and waders, such as
lapwings. There is also a wooded hill behind the visitor centre, which
offers 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 well-used
education facilities, housed in an 18th century farmstead.
When?
Short-term: no placements available.
Long-term: one placement available from end March to end 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?
Orange tip butterfly
Reserve management, monitoring and surveying, and help in the
visitor centre when required.
Who?
Call Debbie on 01577 862355.
33
SCOTLAND
Loch of Strathbeg
18+
ST2 LT6
Crimond, Fraserburgh
Fixing the sluice
What?
A spectacular coastal loch with adjoining beaches, marsh, 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.
When?
Short-term: one or two placements available from April to September.
Long-term: one intern mid-February to Christmas plus two long-term
volunteers October to March inclusive.
Where?
Railway station at Aberdeen (40 miles/64 km from reserve) then bus to
Peterhead, Fraserburgh or Crimond. Pick up by prior arrangement.
Own transport desirable but not essential. One twin and one doublebedded room within the farmhouse, which includes the reserve office.
Why?
Wildfowl and farmland bird monitoring and survey work during 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.
Who?
Call Emma on 01346 532017.
Mersehead
ST2 LT26
18+
Southwick, Dumfries and Galloway
What?
A working farm set between Mersehead Sands and the heather-clad
slopes of Criffel in the heart of a National Scenic Area, home to
thousands of geese, wading birds and wildfowl from autumn to spring.
In spring/summer, there are over 70 species of breeding birds,
including lapwings, yellowhammers and reed warblers. The reserve
also has the most north-westerly population of natterjack toads and a
rich variety of mammals, invertebrates and flowering plants. We
welcome over 27,000 visitors a year to our visitor centre, wetland and
coastal trails.
When?
Short-term: two placements from April to October.
Long-term: two placements from March to November only.
Where?
Railway and bus stations at Dumfries (18 miles/24 km from the reserve)
then bus to Mersehead. Top floor of a recently converted farmhouse,
with two twin bedrooms for volunteers.
Why?
er Mersehead
Barnacle geese ov
34
All volunteers will support the team in a range of tasks, both practical
and people engagement activities.
Who?
Call Rowena on 01387 780579.
Mull of Galloway
ST2
18+
Drummore, Dumfries and Galloway
What?
The reserve is the most southerly point in Scotland. The 280-foot-high
Sea cliffs
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.
When?
Short-term: one volunteer, a couple or two friends 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?
Meeting and greeting visitors, showing people birds in the wild and on
CCTV, membership recruitment, helping with activities for children, and
assisting with bird and butterfly surveys. 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.
Gannets
‘‘
A changing
kaleidoscope of
light and shade
playing over vast
expanses of sea
and sky. Magical!
’’
Daniel Tabor, Mull of Galloway
Maritime heath at Mull of Galloway RSPB reserve
35
......
SCOTLAND
Onziebust and Trumland Orkney
What?
ST1
18+
Onziebust is a farmland, wetland and shoreline reserve on 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: a couple or one volunteer only, from April to August, two weeks
maximum stay.
Long-term: no placements available.
Where?
To Egilsay by car/passenger ferry from Tingwall on the west 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.
Why?
From April to June, assisting with survey work on both islands. Good bird
identification skills essential. Note that corncrake surveys take place at
night. At all other times, there will be lots of hands-on practical work on
each
Onziebust b
habitat management and estate work. Trades such as electricians, plumbers,
builders and mechanics are very useful. Both work and weather can
be tough. See page 50 for one volunteer’s experience.
Who?
Oronsay
Call reserve staff on 01856 821395.
ST4 LT12
18+
Colonsay, Argyll
What?
Oronsay is a tidal island off the larger island of Colonsay. The whole
island forms the reserve, except for Oronsay Estate grounds and ruined
a beach
Chough feeding on
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.
When?
Short-term: one or two placements from July to September inclusive.
Long-term: one or two placements from October to June; 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?
Mostly farm work; there are 50 cattle and 600 sheep. May include
estate/habitat management, surveying and monitoring. Work can
be physically hard and weather can be poor.
36
Who?
Call Val on 01951 200367.
Residential volunteering in
WALES
Great black-backed gull
at dusk, Ramsey Island
37
WALES
Lake Vyrnwy Llanwddyn, Powys
What?
ST1 LT4
17+
One of our most spectacular and magical reserves, Lake Vyrnwy 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 (subject to space).
Long-term: two placements available April to September, plus two
interns all year.
Where?
No public transport – car or motorcycle essential. Two adjoining
bungalows for volunteers, both with one single and one double
bedroom, near the visitor centre.
Why?
October–March: practical management, estate maintenance and 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
y
Waterfall at Lake Vyrnw
very changeable, even in summer, so be prepared!
Who?
Call Jim (reserve) or Lucinda (shop/recruiting) on 01691 870278.
Ramsey Island St David’s, Pembrokeshire
What?
ST2
18+
A remote island 1 mile/1.6 km off the coast, within the 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 four placements, from April to end of September.
Long-term: no placements available.
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 three bedrooms, one with two single beds and
two with one single bed. Limited power for charging small electrical
items only. Log-burning stove in lounge, no other heating.
Why?
Daily tasks include lambing April to May, 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
Grey seal pup
the weather can be poor. Difficult terrain and numerous steep steps on
the island and in the mainland harbour.
38
Who?
Call Lisa on 07836 535733.
South Stack Anglesey, Gwynedd
What?
ST2 LT6
18+
South Stack is a large coastal heathland site located in North Wales,
with high sea cliffs, caves, offshore stacks and cattle-grazed pasture.
Ellin’s tower on the clif
fs
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 (twin rooms), available from
April to October.
Long-term: one placement available, November to March.
Where?
Railway station at Holyhead (3.5 miles/5.5 km from reserve). 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.
Why?
Short-term: helping to deliver the highest quality visitor experience
including helping in the café and supporting information staff in
recruiting RSPB members, showing people birds and providing
general information. Long-term: all of the above visitor work, plus
estate maintenance and reserve management.
International volunteers must speak very good English.
Who?
Call Hayley on 01407 762100.
Ynys-hir Eglwys Fach, Machynlleth, Powys
What?
18+
Ynys-hir is sited on the southern side of the Dyfi estuary, a 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.
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.
Why?
Assisting with the very varied programme of habitat management,
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
Strimming around
wader breeding fields
bog habitat. Spring/summer: estate work, species monitoring and
visitor-focused duties. The work can be physically demanding.
Who?
Call Neil on 01654 700222.
39
More questions answered
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
WILL THERE BE ANY FREE TIME?
You will need to provide proof of identity, eg a passport,
You will not normally be expected to work more than five
driving licence or a current utility bill made out to your
days per week, or on the day of arrival. Hours will not
address. We will provide all necessary safety equipment,
exceed eight per day, unless you choose to volunteer for
but you will probably need to bring:
longer. At some reserves, where nests are guarded 24
•
•
tough, windproof work clothes, wet-weather clothing
hours a day, some shift work is required. Duties will vary
a warm sleeping bag, or sheets/duvet cover and a
from reserve to reserve and will depend on the time of
pillowcase
year. Please see individual reserve entries. There will
towels
always be some free time for birdwatching or other
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
insect repellent
recreation. Please note: our reserves do not take
flask or water bottle
residential volunteers over the Christmas/New Year period.
small rucksack or carrier
lunch box
HOW SAFE IS CONSERVATION WORK?
binoculars/telescope
The RSPB aims to take all reasonable steps to ensure the
stout walking boots/wellingtons
health, safety and welfare of its volunteers. We are
work gloves
committed to providing and monitoring a safe and healthy
enough money to buy your own food during your stay.
working environment and to giving appropriate instruction,
A list of what to bring is also included in the reserve
training and supervision for your health and safety.
details sent to you once a booking has been made.
Health and safety is a partnership between the RSPB and
HOW WILL I GET TO THE RESERVE?
you. We ask you to follow the safety guidelines and not to
You will need to organise your own transport to the
put yourself, or anyone else, at risk while you are carrying
reserve. Details of how to reach each reserve and, where
out your volunteering role. An RSPB Health and Safety
possible, rail/bus stations from which we can collect you,
Handbook is kept on every reserve. Please ensure you
are outlined on pages 9 to 39 for individual reserves.
read the sections most relevant to your role.
Further information on most reserves can be found on
our website at www.rspb.org.uk/reserves. You will be
A noticeboard in your volunteer accommodation will
responsible for the cost of travelling to and from your
display health and safety information, such as fire
reserve. Some sites suggest that a car or bicycle
procedures, first aid provision and details of any specific
would be useful/essential due to remoteness or lack
hazards at the reserve. It is your responsibility to read these.
of public transport.
‘‘
Varied, exciting,
interesting, fun,
friendly. I had an
amazing time and
loved it all.
’’
Dr Hilary Cunningham-Atkins,
Loch of Strathbeg
40
Pink-footed geese at Loch of Strathbeg
‘‘
The boat trip to the
island was a treat,
and we were
pleasantly surprised
by the standard of
accommodation.
’’
Gillian and Richard Watts,
Havergate Island
Havergate Island accommodation
WILL I NEED ANY SPECIAL VACCINATIONS?
PERSONAL ACCIDENT COVER
It is important that you have been inoculated against
All volunteers up to the age of 75 are covered for
tetanus, so please ensure you are covered.
accidental death, injury resulting in the loss of limbs, eyes,
etc and permanent disablement whilst carrying out any
WHAT ABOUT INSURANCE?
business on behalf of the RSPB anywhere in the UK. If you
Volunteers are covered by the RSPB’s insurance policy
are aged 75 or over, please contact the Volunteering
while carrying out any business on behalf of the RSPB
Development Department on 01767 680551, as you will
anywhere in the UK. This includes public liability and
need to complete a form to ensure that you are insured.
limited personal accident cover. As the RSPB personal
accident cover is limited, we strongly advise that all
Additional protection is provided for certain volunteers
volunteers secure their own personal accident insurance.
between the ages of 16 and 65 for temporary total and
temporary partial disablement from usual occupation,
PUBLIC LIABILITY COVER
while carrying out any business on behalf of the RSPB
Our public liability policy protects you as a volunteer
anywhere in the UK. The exact amount varies depending
against legal liability to third parties for accidental
on the age of the injured person and the nature of the
damage, loss or damage to property or for death, injury or
injury. The only personal accident cover provided for
illness. You are protected whilst carrying out any business
volunteers aged 75 to 85 is death benefit. No personal
on behalf of the RSPB anywhere in the UK.
accident cover is provided for volunteers aged over 85.
If someone can demonstrate/prove that your negligence,
PERSONAL BELONGINGS COVER
whilst carrying out the business of the RSPB, caused
Regrettably, we cannot provide cover for loss of or
bodily injury and/or loss or damage to third party
damage to your personal belongings while you are
property, our insurance protects you. Cover is provided
volunteering. However, you can extend your household
to a maximum of £10,000,000 per claim.
contents insurance to cover belongings you take to your
place of volunteering.
41
More questions answered
CAN I DRIVE RSPB VEHICLES?
Please enter the entire period you would like to volunteer
Volunteers over 18 with a current, clean driving licence
for on the application form or contact the Residential
can use an RSPB vehicle when appropriate, and be
Volunteering Booking Office, 9.30 am to 1 pm Monday to
protected by our policy, subject to the approval of our
Friday, on 01767 680551, for details. Please include a copy
insurers. You must complete a declaration form on arrival
of your CV with your application form. Please note,
and bring a copy of your driving licence. If you are using
long-term volunteers are nearly always required to
your own vehicle for RSPB business, you must check with
have a driving licence in order to be able to drive the
your insurers to make sure you have adequate cover.
reserve vehicles.
WHAT ABOUT THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
WHAT ABOUT INTERNS?
GOLD AWARD?
Volunteering internships are run in some regions.
Duke of Edinburgh Award candidates can take part in
The selected volunteers are expected to offer a year’s
residential volunteering to qualify for the residential
commitment in exchange for a structured training
project of the Gold Award. At the end of the week, the
programme in either practical reserve management or
warden will write a short report in your project book based
visitor services management. The following reserves
on how willing you were to take part in all the activities
take residential interns:
and your contribution to the domestic aspects of your
stay. Please note: candidates must stay for a minimum
Blacktoft Sands (one)
Loch of Strathbeg (one)
of one week (Saturday to Saturday).
Coombes Valley (three)
Minsmere (one)
Dearne Valley (one)
Old Hall Marshes (one)
DO YOU TAKE VOLUNTEERS FOR LONG-TERM
Fairburn Ings (two)
Rathlin Island (one)
PLACEMENTS?
Frampton Marsh (two)
Titchwell Marsh (two)
We welcome applications from volunteers who are
Lake Vyrnwy (two)
Ynys-hir (two)
looking for placements that last six months to gain
Leighton Moss (three)
practical experience in conservation and/or complement
an academic qualification or as part of a sandwich course.
These are organised individually following an interview
These opportunities are advertised on the RSPB website,
with the reserve staff and therefore may take longer to
Countryside Job Service (CJS) and Environment Jobs
process. Long-term placements are subject to a
early in the New Year.
satisfactory four-week probation/trial period.
View from Trowieglen, Hoy
42
‘‘
Great group of people – work and fun,
learning new things and birding!
Alex Jessop, Old Hall Marshes
’’
Frozen dawn at Old Hall Marshes
CAN I VOLUNTEER IF I AM CLAIMING JOBSEEKER’S
DO YOU ACCEPT VOLUNTEERS FROM OVERSEAS?
ALLOWANCE?
Volunteers from the EU or European Economic Area (EEA)
If you are currently claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance, you
are welcome to apply, but we can only make a booking
can continue to claim and take part in residential
provided that:
volunteering. However, you must be able to meet a
number of conditions:
•
•
•
you speak good English and are able to understand
you must be willing and able to attend an interview
safety instructions. You will need basic conversational
at 48 hours’ notice and be able to start work with a
English to communicate and work with staff, other
week’s notice
•
•
you are 18 years old or over
you must show that you are actively seeking work
volunteers and visitors
•
you must be able to be contacted promptly if a job
opportunity arises.
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)
Your Jobseeker’s Allowance should be unaffected by
volunteering as long as you meet these requirements.
It is your responsibility to check before you travel whether
Please see the leaflet entitled Volunteering While
you will need to obtain a visa to enter the UK.
Receiving Benefits, available from Jobcentres.
Unfortunately, the recent immigration restrictions that
have been imposed by the UK Border Agency mean that
If you experience difficulties with Jobseeker’s Allowance
we are unable to accept applications from volunteers
or any other welfare benefits due to your volunteering
outside the EU or the EEA.
placement, please contact the Volunteering Development
Department at The Lodge, 9.30 am to 1 pm Monday to
For more information, please see the Border Agency
Friday, on 01767 680551.
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.
43
How to make a booking
The Residential Volunteering Booking Office will be happy
You must allow up to 28 days for your application to be
to answer your queries from Monday to Friday, 9.30 am
processed, as we take up references on all volunteers. It is
to 1 pm (tel: 01767 680551). Outside these hours, an
advisable to apply as early as possible – preferably three
answerphone will take any messages. Alternatively, you
months in advance for vacancies in the summer, which are
can e-mail us at: [email protected]
generally over-subscribed. We process applications on a
strictly first-come, first-served basis.
New volunteers should fill in the form opposite. However,
we can accept telephone bookings from volunteers who
Unfortunately, we do not have the staff time to
have been on the scheme before and for whom we have
acknowledge receipt of every application, but we will
taken up references.
do our best to keep you informed of progress.
Please read carefully the general information on pages 4
Please enclose an A4, self-addressed envelope, with two
to 7, and 40 to 43. Take into consideration the distance you
first class stamps. This will mean more money goes
will need to travel, the nature of the work, the remoteness
towards conservation. Thank you.
of the location and style of accommodation when making
your application.
If you wish to book more than one period of volunteering
(ie not consecutive weeks), please make this clear in an
Once you have decided which reserve(s) you wish to
accompanying note.
volunteer at, and your availability, please complete the
application form and return it to:
IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL
If you have to cancel your booking, it is extremely
The Volunteering Development Department
(Residential)
The RSPB, UK Headquarters
The Lodge, Sandy
Bedfordshire SG19 2DL
or fax it to us on: 01767 692365
44
important that you let the Booking Office and the warden
know as soon as possible, even if this is at the last minute.
We reserve the right to make changes to the availability of
places, and the number of volunteers accepted, in
accordance with changes of circumstance on the reserves.
‘‘
Good accommodation,
excellent reserve,
varied tasks, exciting
birds including a
bittern!
’’
Roberta Rickards,
Blacktoft Sands
Konic ponies at Blacktoft Sands
What happens next?
We will send you a letter confirming your booking, together
with detailed information on the reserve/project. This
includes directions, accommodation, pick-up arrangements
and a packing list. If all your choices of date or location
are fully booked, we will contact you to see if there is an
acceptable alternative. Please note, we get many more
applications than we have places. Do not book travel until
you have received confirmation of your booking.
Last but by no means least...
THANK YOU for all the donations made via our
application form.
This helps us make a real difference for nature, as 90p
of every £1 donated goes towards our vital
Arne in the mist
conservation work.
45
Have fun and help the environment
We hope you will find residential volunteering fun and enjoyable, as well as of
practical benefit to birds and wildlife. Thank you for your interest in the scheme.
We hope to welcome you to one of our reserves soon.
Pond dipping for newts
46
...and finally
KEEPING CHILDREN SAFE
You may also come across information on rare breeding
The RSPB takes all practicable steps to ensure the safety
bird sites. This must be regarded as confidential and must
and welfare of children and young people while they are in
not be disclosed to, or discussed with, anyone not directly
contact with the RSPB. We observe the recommendations
connected with the RSPB.
of the Home Office code of practice Safe from harm, and
similar codes of practice covering Scotland and Northern
Ireland, and conform to all relevant legislation.
IF THERE IS A PROBLEM…
We will do our best to make your volunteering enjoyable
We make all RSPB volunteers and staff aware of the need
and worthwhile. Occasionally, problems do occur.
to safeguard the welfare of children and young people.
Problems that arise during your stay at a reserve should
Where staff or volunteers have substantial unsupervised
initially be raised with the staff member supervising your
contact with children as part of their work, or where they
work or, if this is not appropriate, with the warden. If a
have contact with children in isolated settings, they are
problem cannot be resolved on site, you should contact
recruited, supervised and trained as recommended in Safe
the Volunteering Development Department at The Lodge
from harm.
on 01767 680551.
The RSPB reserves the right to refuse applications for
CAN YOU KEEP A SECRET?
volunteering. The RSPB will support the right of a warden
During your volunteering, you may find yourself working
to send volunteers away from a reserve should their
with material that is not public knowledge. Your full
behaviour compromise the safety, project or general
co-operation is expected to ensure that this material
performance of the team.
remains confidential.
Helping young people discover nature
47
largest
e
h
t
s
i
B
P
The RS nservation
wildlife co urope,
bers
E
charity iny over one million members
b
nior mem
supported
00,000 ju
2
r
e
v
o
g
nd RSPB
includin
xplorers a
E
fe
li
d
il
00
in RSPB W already have 16,0
e
imply,
W
s. Quite s
Phoenix.
r
e
te
n
lu
o
em –
dv
committe manage without th d
n’t
do an
we could
s more to
y
a
lw
a
is
e help.
but there
need mor
y
tl
n
e
g
r
we u
er
to volunte
s
y
a
w
y
n
ma
need
There are
ou don’t
y
–
B
P
S
er you’re
for the R
rt. Wheth
e
p
x
e
d
ir
inside
to be a b
r working
fe
e
r
p
,
ld
o
nal few
young or
n occasio there
a
e
v
a
h
t,
or ou
a time,
weeks at
r
o
do to
s
r
u
o
h
t you can
a
th
g
in
is someth rence for wildlife.
iffe
make a d
Fun dra isin g
in town
Hel ping visit ors
at the bea ch
in Seaford
Volunteers using their voice
for nature, ca mpaigning
in London
M a kinsg
f ri e n d y
at C o n w
nalot ve
ure!
m ore great wa ys to he lp!
M e ss e n g e r fo r w
il dlife
• Off ice a n g e l
• Tra n sl ato r
• D ry- st on e w
a lle r
• Ph ot og ra p h ic
a ss ista nt
• Data d e m on
• Fe atu re w rite
r
•
lov
natuere
!
48
e e ri n g at
H e le n vliofelu nEtn qu irie s
Wil d P B HQ
at R S
M u st a
s et a s rit e
fa vou
More steps for nature
www.rspb
.o
volunteerrsg.uk/
01767 680
551
volunteer
[email protected]
rg.uk
Fu n d ra i s
i n t ownin g
LOVE NATURE? THEN FUNDRAISE
FOR IT
Would you like to try your hand at
ve
nalot fund
raising for the RSPB?
ure
!
You could arrange a coffee morning, take
part in a challenge
event or even persuade friends and fami
ly to help you do some
sponsored car washing. Our new fund
raising guide is full of
great suggestions. If you would like a
copy, please e-mail:
[email protected]
na love
tu
re!
VOLUNTEERING ON NATURE RES
out mf i n d
o re
ERVES
There are opportunities for residentia
l and non-residential
work on our nature reserves. It’s not
all practical conservation
work – volunteers also work in our visit
or centres and help
with education.
JOIN YOUR LOCAL GROUP
With over 160 RSPB local groups, all run
by volunteers, there
are lots of opportunities to get involved
locally. To find your
nearest local group, go to www.rspb.org.
uk/localgroups
WORK WITH YOUNG PEOPLE
There are over 100 local RSPB Wildlife
Explorers and
RSPB Phoenix groups, all run by volu
nteers – a great way
to share the excitement of wildlife with
young people.
OTHER OPPORTUNITIES
d ea s:
i
g
n
i
r
e
e
t
n
u
vo l
m a k e r ide
e
m
u
t
s
u
Co
e s e rve g o ri n g o f f ice r
r
g
n
i
v
it
Ro
ety m o n
f
a
s
e
e
Tr
f ra m e r i n d e r
e
r
u
t
c
i
P
xm
d g e bo p i o n
a
b
n
i
P
m
ig n ch a
a
p
m
lo ve t
a
C
f f i ce r
o
d
y
it
o t hi so
c
i
l
Pu b
r
!
e
ma k
De coy s u rve y o r
y
Qu a nt it
Many people help us by using their spec
ialist skills, such
as electricians, translators and artists.
There are thousands
of ways to help conservation – whateve
r your skills!
CAMPAIGNS
Our campaigns and appeals focus on
protecting wild birds
and places and demanding better laws
. These campaigns
would not be successful without the
people who get involved
and step up for nature.
A bbott us in g his
ca rpentry skills at
Loch G ru in art
to creat e a ne w
boardwalk
To h e l p
n e ed t o t h e RS P B, y o
bi rd s. W k n ow a n yt hi n u d o n ’t
vo l u nt e e e h a ve h u n d re g a bout
fo r y ou, ri n g oppo rt u n d s o f
h a ve a s wh et h e r y ou it i e s
10 m o nt pa re 10 m i n ut
es
h s o r 10
y ea rs! ,
Decoys on
Ha verg ate
e
spbvolunteering
www.facebook.com/r
ity
lunteeringcommun
www.rspb.org.uk/vo
49
YOUR
WORDS
Jenny cutting gorse on
Rousay
Unforgettable experiences
at Onziebust and Trumland
fence post staples
Jenny extracting
I was initially a little worried as to whether I would be up to
the physical work involved (I’m 62) – but hey I’m a child of the
sixties, and hopefully still have that ‘get up and go’ I had back
then! So I chose this isolated spot on purpose as it’s rare you
get such a great opportunity to join in with hands-on work and
have your own space afterwards.
I was pleasantly surprised to find I soon got the knack of
extracting staples from fence posts and hacking back gorse –
albeit less efficiently than Izzy the warden. There were
Lorna and
Jenny at
Kirkwell
County
Show
certainly some aspects of the work that a lot of my friends of
a similar vintage would have found daunting, such as climbing
over barbed-wire fences, and crossing fields containing a bull
recently deprived of his cows! But if you can muscle away
in the garden, you will probably be okay and anyone with a
bit of guts should certainly give it a go. I just hope the
wardens don’t groan when they see the next granny heave to
off the ferry!
It was a wonderful experience and I was very sad to leave.
Please count me in for next year!
Jenny Curtis-Beard,
Onziebust and Trumland
rake
reed grass in cornc
Izzy planting canary
corridor, Egilsay
50
Trumland, Rousay
Contact us
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: [email protected]
ENGLAND
If you are interested in occasional volunteering on another
reserve, 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
www.rspb.org.uk/volunteering
NORTHERN IRELAND
MIDLANDS REGIONAL OFFICE
NORTHERN IRELAND 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.
Belvoir Park Forest, Belfast BT8 7QT Tel: 028 9049 1547.
Covers: Northern Ireland and Isle of Man.
EASTERN ENGLAND REGIONAL OFFICE
Stalham House, 65 Thorpe Road, Norwich NR1 1UD
Tel: 01603 661662
Covers: Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire,
Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
SCOTLAND
SCOTLAND HEADQUARTERS
Ground Floor, 2 Lochside View, Edinburgh Park,
Edinburgh EH12 9DH Tel: 0131 317 4100.
EAST SCOTLAND REGIONAL OFFICE
LONDON AREA OFFICE
10 Albyn Terrace, Aberdeen AB10 1YP
Tel: 01224 624824.
Covers: Shetland, Orkney, Aberdeenshire, Moray,
Perth and Kinross, and Fife and Angus.
Second Floor, 65 Petty France, London SW1H 9EU
Tel: 020 7808 1240. Covers: Greater London.
NORTH SCOTLAND REGIONAL OFFICE
NORTHERN ENGLAND REGIONAL OFFICE
Westleigh Mews, Wakefield Road, Denby Dale,
Huddersfield HD8 8QD Tel: 01484 861148.
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.
SOUTH EAST ENGLAND REGIONAL OFFICE
1st Floor, Pavilion View, 19 New Road, Brighton BN1 1UF
Tel: 01273 775333.
Covers: Berkshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight,
Kent, Surrey and West Sussex.
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
WALES HEADQUARTERS
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.
Sutherland House, Castlebridge, Cowbridge Road East,
Cardiff CF11 9AB Tel: 029 2035 3000.
Covers: Wales.
NORTH WALES OFFICE
North Wales Office, Unit 14, Llys Castan, Parc Menai,
Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 4FD Tel: 01248 672850.
51
As a charity, the RSPB depends
on the goodwill and financial
support of people like you.
Please visit www.rspb.org.uk/supporting
or call 01767 680551 to find out more.
The RSPB
UK Headquarters
The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire
SG19 2DL T 01767 680551
Northern Ireland Headquarters
Belvoir Park Forest, Belfast
BT8 7QT T 028 9049 1547
Scotland Headquarters
2 Lochside View,
Edinburgh Park, Edinburgh
EH12 9DH T 0131 317 4100
Wales Headquarters
Sutherland House, Castlebridge,
Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff
CF11 9AB T 029 2035 3000
www.rspb.org.uk
The RSPB speaks out for birds and wildlife,
tackling the problems that threaten our
environment. Nature is amazing – help us
keep it that way.
We belong to BirdLife International, the global
partnership of bird conservation organisations.
All images copyright (rspb-images.com) unless otherwise specified. Cover: Dungeness residential volunteers by Rose Manby (volunteer). Page 2–3: Ynys-Hir by Jenny Hibbert, Kate Tycer and Jane Shah by Jackie Bruce (RSPB). Page 4–5: Coombes volunteer
interns by Jarrod Sneyd (RSPB), Beki Williams by Jen Walker (RSPB). Page 6–7: sunset over Loch Garten by Les Carr (volunteer), Frampton Marsh volunteers’ accommodation by John Badley (RSPB). Page 8–9: Exe Estuary by Andy Hay. Page 10–11:
Aylesbeare Common and Coombes Brook by Andy Hay, Bempton Cliffs by Mike Richards, Blacktoft cattle by Mike Pilsworth (RSPB). Page 12–13: roseate tern by Paul Morrison (RSPB), roseate terrace, building the night hide and raking by Wesley Davies
(RSPB), Coquet Island aerial view by David Wootton. Page 14–15: reedbed work by Kate Thorpe (RSPB), fawn in heather by Simon Gregory (competition entry, right of use retained by RSPB), bumblebee by Rolf Williams (RSPB), Exe Estuary by Andy Hay.
Page 16–17: Natalie Holt (RSPB), Brian Dinsley, Julibee and work party by Craig Edwards (RSPB), Fairburn Ings by Jesper Mattias, crabs by Andy Hay. Page 18–19: Geltsdale by Andy Hay, Lesley Silcock by Les Mundy (volunteer), Haweswater by Andy Hay,
Haweswater by Kate Tycer (RSPB). Page 20–21: oystercatchers by Ben Hall, Norfolk hawker by Steve Knell, wading avocet by Chris Gomersall, bumblebee, bittern and river watch hide by Adam Rowlands (RSPB). 22–23: grey heron by Mike Richards, ruddy
darter by Richard Revels, golden plover by Mark Hamblin, West Sedgemoor by David Kjaer. Page 24–25: Wye Valley by Kate Tycer (RSPB), peregrine by David J Slater, otter by Niall Benvie, dune tiger beetle by Richard Revels, Titchwell Marsh by Andy Hay.
Page 26–27: Rathlin Island and puffin by Andy Hay, sea stacks by Alan Murray (RSPB). Page 28–29: Scots pine by Andy Hay, pine marten by Peter Cairns, Jack Common (RSPB). Page 30–31: osprey by Chris Gomersall, Forsinard Flows by Eleanor Bentall,
Femke Dolstra by Lee Shields (RSPB), roe deer by Ben Hall. Page 32–33: Loch Gruinart and corncrake by Andy Hay, dolphin by Chris Gomersall, marsh harriers by Ben Hall, orange tip butterfly by Tom Marshall. Page 34–35: volunteers at the Loch of Strathbeg
by David Parnaby (RSPB), Mersehead by Kaleel Zibe, sea cliffs, gannets and maritime heath by Andy Hay. Page 36–37: Trumland and chough by Andy Hay, great black-backed gull by Ben Hall. Page 38–39: Lake Vyrnwy and South Stack by Ben Hall, seal pup
by Lisa Morgan (RSPB), volunteer at Ynys-Hir by Eleanor Bentall. Page 40–41: pink-footed geese by Steve Austin, Havergate Island by Kieran Alexander (RSPB). Page 42–43: view from Trowieglen, Hoy by Lee Shields (RSPB), Old Hall Marshes by Bob Glover.
Page 44–45: misty panoramic of Arne by Steve Kitchen (competition entry, right of use retained by RSPB), konics by Mike Pilsworth (RSPB). Page 46–47: Rye Meads and helping young people discover nature by Eleanor Bentall. Page 48–49: Tiger fundraiser by
Brian Reid (RSPB), Seaford by Andy Hay, Love Nature volunteers by Gena Correale-Wardle (volunteer), campaigners by David Levinson, Helen by Andy Hay, volunteer with family by Eleanor Bentall, photography volunteer and carpenter by Andy Hay, decoys
on Havergate by Eddie Tycer (volunteer). Page 50–51: Izzy planting in corncrake corridor, Egilsay, Jenny cutting gorse on Ramsey, Jenny extracting fence post staples and Lorna and Jenny at Kirkwall County Show by Jenny Curtis-Beard (volunteer),
Trumland, Rousay by Andy Hay.
1
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654. 363-1280-11-12