Penorchard Meadows consist of a series of unimproved meadows with a rich diversity of wildflowers. This Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) grassland nature reserve has far-reaching views across the Black Country.

Purpose of the role

We are looking for the right person to become a work party leader and work alongside our reserve staff and existing leaders. You will help us look after this site by helping to run practical conservation volunteer work parties once a month with support and guidance from reserve staff and other volunteers.

We are building and developing the work party and seek an individual who will help to organise the group and oversee practical tasks on the day. All necessary training will be provided and, in time, we are looking to expand this group to start to manage a new nearby reserve, also a series of wildflower meadows in Romsley. If there is sufficient interest this might run on a different Monday, drawing in on the same pool of volunteers.

Type of tasks you will be involved with

Some examples of typical tasks involved are:

• organise volunteers to attend and undertake practical work once per month
• With training, ensure work parties operate safely
• undertaking direct practical work such as bramble and scrub management
• agree a work plan ensuring that work is carried out in accordance with the management plan
• informing the reserves team of progress and of any points of interest/concern on the site

Experience and skills required

• Suitable for everyone with a basic level of fitness
• Interest and enthusiasm for nature and wildlife conservation
• Willingness to work outside in all weathers
• Ability to work alone and as part of a team with other volunteers who know the site well
• Basic use of hand tools - training and tools will be provided
• Willingness to be involved in a number of tasks as directed
• Comfortable leading groups of people (leadership training will be given)
• Understanding of importance of adhering to Health and Safety policies and procedures

Days/times we would like you to be available

Our current work party takes place on the first Monday of the month and is attended by as many as 20 volunteers. We have some leaders but need more if we are to grow the group, split up and also expand to take on a new nearby reserve.

Benefits

Being a work party leader enables you to develop a deep understanding of the nature reserve you are helping to look after.  Through working closely with our reserves team staff, you will gain a deeper understanding of our site management plans and help to carry out this vital management on site.  It is a great way to feel connected to the natural world as you experience it changing with the seasons and seeing the benefits of the work come in to play. 

In addition to general tool-use and health and safety training, we will offer training in leadership and first aid.

We’re Wild About Inclusion

To us, this means inspiring, empowering and engaging people from all backgrounds, cultures, identities and abilities, to change the natural world for the better.  It also means cultivating inclusive workspaces that are free from discrimination, where differences are valued, everyone can be themselves and flourish, just like nature!

Enquire now