We are always looking for more people to help us to protect the Peregrines and raise awareness of the importance of this project.

It is a great opportunity to interact with people who are interested in the birds or who would like to know more.

The role of a volunteer bird warden

You would be working on the spectacular Cann viaduct and in the surrounding areas of Plymbridge Woods. The most important part of being a bird warden is to deter crime and disturbance of the nest but also to meet and greet visitors, telling them all about the peregrines with the aim of raising their profile and encouraging people to appreciate the presence of the peregrines and a variety of other birds.

What will I be doing?

• Watching and monitoring the behaviour of the birds
• Keeping the daily diary
• Controlling the use of the telescopes and tripods for the benefit of visitors.
• Recording the number of visitors to the viaduct viewing platform
• Keeping a record of any disturbance to the nest site and reporting any incidents to the Peregrine Warden

What experience will I need?

You need to be reliable, responsible and able to make decisions. You will need to have a friendly disposition and a tactful approach when dealing with the public and a genuine enjoyment of talking with people. You should have an interest in birds, their conservation and the woodland environment generally. However you do not need to be a skilled ornithologist or an ‘expert’ in the field. You should have a love of the outdoors and be able to work in wet and windy or hot conditions as the viaduct is exposed to the elements.

Are there any expectations of me as a volunteer?

Yes there are. As a volunteer you will be acting as an ambassador for the National Trust when volunteering. Therefore there are certain requirements that will be asked of you in relation to this role.

• A tactful and sensitive approach when dealing with children and young people.
• A regard for health and safety of self, other workers and the public.
• Honest, responsible and caring with assets and security
• Awareness of customer care and a generally professional approach
• Respect for confidentiality of information.

How much of a commitment will it be?

The rota is based on a two hour shift over a seven day period. The core hours are during daylight but the hours before dawn and after dark also need covering to deter likely predators.

The hours available are flexible, some people like to do a regular slot every week whilst some like to do more than one, others offer as and when they are available depending on other commitments.

The role of a volunteer is not contractual. You are in control of how many hours you do and when. You are NOT obligated to fulfill your hours, all we ask is that you let us know as soon as possible if you are not able to do the hours so we may ask some else to take your place at that time.

Who will be supporting me as a volunteer?

On the whole there are two people on duty at any one time (and you can choose who you team up with if you have friends on the watch), some of our long term watchers are happy to work alone under the protection of the National Trust “lone workers” policy.  Day to day support is provided by the Peregrine Warden and overall management of volunteers is undertaken by the Community Engagement Officer.

Under no circumstances should any volunteer put themselves at risk. There is always a member of National Trust staff available for support and advice and at no time will a volunteer be expected to perform beyond their ability or training.

What do I get out of it?

A great sense of achievement. Protecting these magnificent birds is extremely important and only possible because of the volunteer watchers commitment. The enjoyment of being outdoors in a beautiful setting where you will meet lots of new and interesting people .You will be adding new skills to your life and the chance to play a part in conservation.

We also have an incentive scheme for volunteers of the National Trust. After completing 50 hours of volunteering you may be eligible to apply for a pass which allows you free access to any National Trust property for one year.

There is also a uniform sweatshirt and ID name badge.

If you think this opportunity sounds interesting and would like more information without any obligation please contact: Steph Rodgers, Community Engagement Officer for the National Trust in the Plym Valley. Tel: 01752 341377 or Mobile: 0780772662