We are looking for a volunteer leader and helpers to a run new Wildlife Watch group in Penrith and helpers for our existing groups in Barrow, Cockermouth, Gosling Sikes (Carlisle), and Grange. We are also open to establishing Wildlife Watch Groups, in other new locations.

Are you:

• enthusiastic for wildlife and nature (You DON'T need to be an expert)
• full of creative and fun activity ideas
• keen and confident working with young people
• able to organise and plan to lead safe sessions
• able to work well with other volunteers and share tasks as a team
• eager to have a real impact to support our next generation environmentalists

Support our growing network of Watch groups in Cumbria. Wildlife Watch is the junior branch of The Wildlife Trusts and is the UK's leading club for young environmentalists. Local Watch Groups run a varied programme of fun environmental and wildlife focused activities aimed at 6–12 year-olds. You can find out more about our current Watch Groups here.

You do not need to be an expert in either wildlife or working with young people, but you do need to be enthusiastic about nature, enjoy working with people, and to be able to commit to attending regularly.

The groups are welcoming places with activities ranging from creative crafts to outdoor opportunities: each group varies depending on the interests of the leaders.

Volunteers will be asked to complete short registration and application forms, including providing two referees, and will receive a DBS check. All leaders and helpers will receive Safeguarding Children training, with the options to access additional training, such as first aid training, as required.

This is a very flexible volunteer role. As a leader you can decide with your helpers how often - and when - you wish to run sessions.  Leaders are responsible for the overall running of the group including the risk assessments, planning and advertising events.

Materials, training and support will be provided for leaders. Helpers support the group Leader with planning, prep and delivering activities. Please note: DBS checks will be required and will be provided for by the Trust

Commitment will be monthly meetings, lasting one and a half hours. Planning time may take an addition 1-2 hours per month.

Potentially the volunteer role is suitable for wheelchair users. Get in touch to have a chat.

Want to learn more about this Role?