At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate planning applications and influence outcomes for London's green spaces.
- Company: Join CPRE London, a charity dedicated to greening the city.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and a reference for future opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working with social events and workshops.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on London's environment and connect with like-minded individuals.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of planning issues and good communication skills required.
Opportunity to use your expertise and knowledge of the planning system, sound grasp of related procedures and a keen interest in the environment. At CPRE London you will help us protect and improve access to London’s green spaces, inform and support many worthy campaigns.
What difference will you make? Your expertise will enable the team to support and inform campaign strategy, advise local groups and help steer campaigners to achieve successful outcomes.
What are we looking for?
- An eye for detail and an interest in investigative work
- Knowledge of planning and environmental issues is essential
- Previous experience in the planning sector
- Good local knowledge of one of these London boroughs would be useful: Barking & Dagenham, Redbridge, Newham, Haringey, Enfield, Harrow, Hillingdon, Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, Hammersmith & Fulham, Wandsworth, Lambeth, Hackney, Camden, Brent, Ealing, Hounslow, Merton, Sutton, Croydon, City of London, Lewisham, Greenwich, Bexley, Havering
- A willingness to visit the local planning office and proposed development sites
- Able to carry out tasks independently and as part of a team
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Access to a computer and the internet at home and be comfortable using them
Benefits Of The Role
- Use your skills and experience to contribute to the success of our charity and make a positive impact on London’s environment
- Meet like-minded people and enjoy being part of a team
- We’ll support you to develop in your volunteering role and provide you with relevant training
- We’ll give you a reference for your future work or volunteering; enhance your CV by developing new skills and gaining valuable experience
- Get involved with social events and workshops on a local and national level, including the annual CPRE conference
- The opportunity to attend a volunteer induction day at CPRE’s national office in London or a regional centre
- We are happy to provide out-of-pocket travel expenses.
Hybrid working with occasional attendance at meetings. As a Planning Volunteer for CPRE, use your investigative skills on planning applications which affect Londoners’ access to green spaces and help us influence positive, environmentally friendly outcomes. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to national consultations and policy development. The role asks for 7-10 hours commitment per week and you are accountable to the CPRE London Operations Director. Our team will provide you with training and support to develop in your role. CPRE London is dedicated to greening the city, sharing countryside’s beauty, tranquility, and accessibility. Volunteer with us to aid London in becoming carbon‑neutral by 2030, boosting biodiversity, and enhancing life for wildlife and residents.
What Will You Be Doing
- Investigating planning applications with an impact on London’s green spaces
- Preparing and submitting responses to influence the outcome of planning applications and appeals
- Visiting the local planning offices and proposed development sites to look at plans and record details
- Liaising with parish and district councils and other conservation bodies
- Seeking to influence local and neighbourhood plans
- Building relationships with local organisations to influence their management plans
- Liaising with the planning team and policy committee at National CPRE to contribute to consultations and policy development
- Proactively investigating the planning designation of green spaces in your local area to find out whether there is scope to strengthen these in order to better protect these sites for future generations
Senior Planning Volunteer - Volunteer in London employer: CPRE London, regional branch
At CPRE London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the contributions of our volunteers in protecting and enhancing London's green spaces. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and personal growth, offering training opportunities and a chance to engage with like-minded individuals passionate about environmental issues. By volunteering with us, you will not only gain valuable experience but also make a meaningful impact on the community while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements.
Contact Details:
CPRE London, regional branch Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Volunteer - Volunteer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the planning and environmental sectors. Attend local events or workshops, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on a volunteer opportunity or can give you insider tips!
✨Tip Number 2
Get familiar with the local planning scene. Dive into the planning applications in your area and understand the key issues affecting green spaces. This knowledge will not only boost your confidence but also make you a valuable asset when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your investigative skills! When you’re chatting with potential contacts or during interviews, share examples of how you've tackled planning issues or contributed to environmental causes. This will highlight your passion and expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After meeting someone or attending an event, drop them a quick message to thank them for their time. It keeps you on their radar and shows you’re genuinely interested in making a difference with CPRE London.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Volunteer - Volunteer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Environment:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for environmental issues shine through. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission to protect London’s green spaces.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail any previous experience in the planning sector or related fields. We’re looking for candidates who can bring their expertise to the table, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate good written communication, so make sure your ideas are easy to follow and well-structured.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at CPRE London, regional branch
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the planning system and environmental issues. Familiarise yourself with recent planning applications in London, especially those affecting green spaces. This will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Local Knowledge is Key
Research the specific boroughs mentioned in the job description. Understanding local issues and recent developments in areas like Barking & Dagenham or Hammersmith & Fulham can give you an edge. It demonstrates your commitment to the role and the community.
✨Show Off Your Investigative Skills
Prepare examples of past experiences where you've successfully investigated planning applications or similar projects. Be ready to discuss how you approached these tasks and what outcomes you achieved. This will highlight your attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since good written and verbal communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might be asked to explain complex planning concepts, so being able to simplify them will impress your interviewers. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your skills.
