Summary
Join us in one of the most inspiring landscapes in the country and help connect people, nature, and heritage through volunteering and community engagement.As our Community, Participation & Volunteering Officer, you will champion the value of engagement, support the team to co-ordinate activities, and help grow and diversify opportunities so more people can get involved. This is a dynamic, varied role that requires excellent organisational skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving.The role involves some evening and weekend working and regular travel across the portfolio. Work base options are available in Windermere, Coniston, Ullswater, Grasmere, or Ambleside.This role is based on annualised hours, where the amount of hours you work each month may vary, however your salary will be paid in 12 equal instalments over the year.
What it's like to work here
South and East Lakes is an area of exceptional cultural and ecological significance. Our land spans over 14,000 hectares, from Eden to the southern tips of Coniston -featuring iconic landscapes and a network of key visitor destinations anchored by Windermere, England’s largest natural lake.At the heart of our approach are relationships, honesty, and trust. We work collaboratively, internally, and externally, valuing listening, sharing knowledge, and enabling others to deliver our ambitious strategy.
What you'll be doing
With your experience in volunteer management and partnership working, you’ll build strong, collaborative relationships with local communities and organisations combining your enthusiasm for public engagement with your passion for nature and the outdoors.You will co-ordinate our community engagement and volunteering efforts, placing people at the heart of our plans. This includes creating inclusive volunteering opportunities, supporting, and valuing volunteers, and fostering community-led activities that help restore nature and heritage.Championing best practice, supporting colleagues, and ensuring our systems and data are well managed, you will be innovative and remove barriers to participation, making sure everyone has the opportunity to be actively involved.
Who we're looking for
1. an understanding of community engagement, participatory practice, and volunteer engagement, management, and innovation
2. excellent communication and relationship-building skills, including the ability to coach and support others and work collaboratively across teams
3. a proactive, empathetic, and inclusive approach
4. confidence in using data and insight to guide decisions, with experience of improving and innovating processes and systems
5. self-motivation and confidence working independently, with the ability to take initiative and manage your own workload effectively
6. knowledge of relevant legislation, including safeguarding, GDPR, and equality
7. excellent organisational and planning skills to deliver team priorities
The package
The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
•Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
•Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
•Rental deposit loan scheme
•Season ticket loan
•EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
•Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
•Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
•Flexible working whenever possible
•Employee assistance programme
•Free parking at most Trust places