As a member of a small team of volunteers, you will assist countryside service staff on the maintenance and improvement of the wildlife garden and surrounding areas at Shipley Country Park. Other practical tasks may be offered as well in order to meet the aims and objectives of the countryside service.
Typical tasks will include:
- general tidying of the garden and pond area
- pruning, watering and generally maintaining the plants, weeding planting
- path work, pond clearance, cleaning benches
- lawn mowing
- building and installing bug homes and similar
Under the direction of the team supervisor, you will:
- use hand-tools and/or materials to carry out practical tasks
- carry and handle tools and materials
- clean, service and maintain hand-tools and personal protective equipment
- clean and tidy tool stores and volunteer bases
Volunteers are covered by our public liability and personal accident insurances.
We'll ask you to abide by our volunteer agreement, which sets out the standards and support you can expect from us and what we ask of you in return.
Guidance in techniques and safe use of tools will be given by our staff.
Personal protective equipment, such as gloves and hard hats, will be provided as required.
You'll need sturdy footwear with good grip such as walking boots. Some tasks may require safety footwear: you'll be told when this is the case and 'pool' safety boots may be available.
Wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. Overalls may be available.
Bring a packed lunch (if necessary). Hot drinks can be provided.
We're looking for someone with enthusiasm for the countryside, who is reasonably fit and willing to be outdoors in all weathers throughout the year.
Working as part of a group of gardening volunteers, the post holder will have contact with our staff, other volunteers and the general public. The person will need to enjoy gardening and be comfortable working in an area accessed by members of the public.
You'll be punctual and reliable, and enjoy being part of a team.
You'll be willing to follow our policies and procedures on health and safety, equality and diversity, data protection and environmental management.
Where
Shipley Country Park
Heanor
Derbyshire
DE75 7GX
When
Every other Sunday from 10am to midday.
However, for experienced gardeners who do not require supervision, it might be possible for other days and times to be arranged.
What you could get out of it
You could:
- meet new people
- share existing skills and developing new skills
- get valuable experience for a career change
- get a sense of satisfaction and of 'giving something back'
- improve your health and fitness
Find out more
Contact the countryside service at Shipley Country Park, email: place.shipleycountrypark@derbyshire.gov.uk or telephone: 01629 533991.