What is a Wilder Welcome Volunteer?

Anyone who wants to go beyond the shop and cafe at Whisby, to follow the paths around the lakes or over the railway bridge into the woodland and wilder areas, has to pass The Barn. With information boards and windows looking out over Thorpe Lake (including one at child height), it's a great starting point for exploring the reserve. Our team of Wilder Welcome volunteers are on hand at The Barn to answer any questions, point out the wildlife that can be seen and share the wonders of Whisby, whether visitors are hoping to catch a glimpse of a common lizard basking, be amazed by the size of a passing great white egret, or see a black-tailed skimmer or ruddy darter at this national dragonfly hotspot. 

Some wildlife identification skills will come in handy but you'll pick these up and hone them in the role. Enthusiasm and a genuine love of the nature reserve are more important. Our Wilder Welcome volunteers also encourage appropriate use of the site (telling cyclists where they can safely leave their bikes to continue on foot, for example), and may spend time out and about on site too, noting important species sightings and talking with the public.

What’s involved?

• Being a presence in The Barn to welcome visitors to Whisby Nature Park
• Inspiring people to support the Trust in its work on the reserve and beyond
• Providing a range of engagement activities and information to give visitors a deeper appreciation of Whisby’s wonderful wildlife
• Reporting any damage, incidents and activities to staff via regular reporting arrangements
• Always acting in accordance with the Volunteer Charter, any risk assessment provided, policies, procedures and guidelines
• Undertaking appropriate in-house training appropriate to the role
• Helping to keep The Barn clean and tidy and up to date with information.

Who would this role suit?

Essential skills/experience:

• An infectious passion for nature and the natural world
• A strong desire to inspire others about wildlife
• An understanding of the needs of the public and native wildlife
• Familiarity with Whisby Nature Park and its wildlife
• Sensible regard for health and safety
• Understanding and support of the Trust's principles of reserve management
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public
• A reasonable degree of physical fitness
• The ability to work within guidelines set by the Education team

Desirable skills/experience:

• An affinity with and commitment to the aims of the Trust
• Wildlife identification skills

What’s in it for you?

• Free car parking at the Whisby Education Centre
• The opportunity to share a love and knowledge of wildlife and the natural world
• Role specific training
• Playing a key part in the Public Engagement & Communications team, helping visitors enjoy Whisby Nature Park in a considerate way
• Branded clothing whilst on site

Commitment: 3-6 hours per week/as often as desired

Duration: Ongoing

If this appeals to you, please complete the attached expression of interest form. You may be invited to a 'try out day' to see whether you enjoy it.