At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate planning applications and influence outcomes for London's green spaces.
- Company: Join CPRE London, a charity dedicated to protecting the environment.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and a reference for future opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working with a commitment of 7-10 hours per week.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on London's environment while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of planning issues and strong 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.
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 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 social events that enrich your volunteering experience. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the environment while developing valuable skills and connections within a passionate community.
Contact Details:
CPRE London, regional branch Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Volunteer - Volunteer
✨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!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential contacts or during interviews, highlight your investigative work and knowledge of planning issues. Make it clear how your expertise can help CPRE London achieve its goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you. Research local planning applications and think about how you could contribute. This shows initiative and a genuine interest in making a difference in London’s green spaces.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making an impact on the environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Volunteer - Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Environment:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for environmental issues shine through. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission at CPRE London to protect and improve access to green spaces.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous experience in the planning sector or related fields. We’re looking for candidates who can bring their knowledge of planning procedures to the table, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate good written communication skills, so make sure your application is easy to read and free from jargon. Clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a difference in London’s environment.
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 genuine interest and expertise during the interview.
✨Show Off Your Investigative Skills
Prepare examples of how you've used your investigative skills in previous roles. Whether it’s analysing planning documents or engaging with local councils, be ready to discuss specific instances where your attention to detail made a difference.
✨Local Knowledge is Key
Research the boroughs mentioned in the job description. Having good local knowledge will not only help you answer questions but also demonstrate your commitment to the role. Mention any relevant experiences or connections you have within those areas.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Since good written and verbal communication skills are essential, consider preparing a brief presentation about a planning issue you’re passionate about. This will showcase your ability to convey complex information effectively.
