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- Tasks: Support safe boat travel through the UK's longest canal tunnel while engaging with visitors.
- Company: Join a passionate team dedicated to preserving and promoting our historic waterways.
- Benefits: Gain unique experiences, meet new people, and enjoy a rewarding volunteer role.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting environment, making a difference for visitors and boaters alike.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a friendly attitude and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Flexible volunteering days available; training provided to ensure your confidence and safety.
We are recruiting shadows to join our friendly volunteer team who ensure private boats can safely travel through Standedge Tunnel. This is the longest, highest, and deepest canal tunnel in the UK, and many sections are unlined where rock causes navigational hazards. Shadows drive through the adjoining disused rail tunnel, monitoring the progress of narrowboats (and sometimes canoes) and being able to offer assistance in case of emergency. Thorough training will be provided to ensure you know the tunnel's features (including the s-bend in the middle), and have knowledge of our emergency procedures.
Passages through the tunnel for private boats are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays usually from the end of March until November. Occasionally weekend trips for our passenger boat or canoes take place which also require a shadow to support them. Once trained, you can let us know which days you are available so a monthly rota can be arranged from our pool of volunteers. When you apply, we will contact you to arrange a day to come in and meet some of the team and discuss what the role involves so you can ask questions and decide if the role is for you. Thank you for your interest.
Why we want you
As a Waterside Champion we need your support to be there for our customers. The millions of visitors to our waterways, museums and attractions are intrigued by our wonderful 200 year old network. Our Champions are there to facilitate a great experience for all.
There are a number of activities which you could be involved with along our towpaths at our Welcome Stations; demonstrating in our collections teams at our museums; caring for and operating our swing and lift bridges to support passing boaters; facilitating safe passage through our tunnels where additional boater support is needed.
We have other roles which complement our Waterside Champions in more specific day to day customer focused roles: Rangers, Lock keepers, Explorers, Waterside Champions and Youth Engagement roles.
What you will be doing
- Representing the Trust to welcome and engage visitors, customers and local people
- Volunteering in a team to care for the day to day operation of the waterways
- Operating key parts of the waterways to ensure safe passage by boaters and talking to members of the public about them
When you register as a volunteer, we will ask you about any unspent convictions which you need to declare and risk assess these as needs be.
The skills you need
- Friendly
- Reliable
- Good with people
- Happy working with others
What's in it for you
- Sense of reward
- New experience in a unique environment
- Opportunity to help those in need
- A supportive network of colleagues
Waterside Champion (Shadow at Standedge Tunnel) employer: Canal & River Trust
Contact Detail:
Canal & River Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Waterside Champion (Shadow at Standedge Tunnel)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Standedge Tunnel and its features. Understanding the unique aspects of the tunnel, such as the s-bend, will not only help you during your training but also show your genuine interest in the role when you meet the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current volunteers or staff if possible. They can provide insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and share their experiences, which can help you understand what it means to be a Waterside Champion.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your people skills during your initial meeting. Since the role requires good communication and friendliness, be prepared to showcase your ability to engage with visitors and work well in a team.
✨Tip Number 4
Be flexible with your availability. The role requires support on specific days, so showing that you can adapt your schedule will make you a more attractive candidate for the volunteer team.
We think you need these skills to ace Waterside Champion (Shadow at Standedge Tunnel)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Waterside Champion. Read through the job description carefully and think about how your skills and experiences align with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight any relevant experience you have in customer service, teamwork, or volunteering. Emphasise your friendly and reliable nature, as these are key traits for this position.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that reflects your passion for helping others and your interest in waterways. Mention why you want to be a part of the team and how you can contribute to enhancing visitors' experiences.
Prepare for the Meet and Greet: Once your application is submitted, be ready for a meet and greet with the team. Prepare questions about the role and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to volunteer and support the community.
How to prepare for a job interview at Canal & River Trust
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for the Role
Make sure to express your excitement about becoming a Waterside Champion. Talk about your passion for helping others and your interest in the waterways, as this role is all about engaging with visitors and ensuring their safety.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since this position involves working closely with a team, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and support your teammates.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Tunnel Features
Before the interview, take some time to learn about Standedge Tunnel and its unique features, such as the s-bend. Showing that you have done your homework will impress the interviewers and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Think of thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about training, the monthly rota, or how the team supports each other. Asking questions shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
