At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate planning applications and influence outcomes for the countryside.
- Company: Join a passionate charity dedicated to environmental issues in Lancashire.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, enhance your CV, and receive training.
- Other info: Enjoy social events and workshops, with travel expenses covered.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the countryside while meeting like-minded people.
- Qualifications: Interest in planning and environmental issues; good communication skills.
We're passionate about making the countryside in Lancashire a better place for everyone to enjoy. Our vibrant team of volunteers inspires people to care for the countryside and the benefits it brings wherever they live. Please note this role may also help cover other parts of the Lancashire area including Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester. Volunteering with us is a fantastic way to help us champion environmental issues such as the climate emergency, renewable energy, biodiversity and sustainable transport. With your support we can do even more!
Planning volunteers have an essential role in responding to planning applications and policy documents on behalf of our charity. You would be part of a friendly team which meets regularly to discuss planning issues. You'll also gain valuable skills and experience in the planning process for a range of different developments.
Why we want youBy volunteering with us you'll be helping to find positive solutions for the issues facing the countryside and the environment. By applying your skills and experience you can make a real difference and be a central part of a friendly and passionate charity. As a planning volunteer you'll be investigating planning applications which impact the countryside and helping us to influence their outcome. You'll also have the opportunity to contribute to national consultations and policy development.
What you will be doing- Investigating planning applications with an impact on the countryside
- 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 such as AONBs, to influence their management plans
- Liaising with the planning team and policy committee at National CPRE to contribute to consultations and policy development
- You may be asked to attend district committee meetings as part of this role
- Some knowledge of the countryside and environmental issues
- Previous experience in the planning sector and knowledge of the planning system are helpful in this role
- An eye for detail and an interest in investigative work
- A willingness to visit the local planning office and proposed development sites
- Happy carrying 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
- Be able to commit to volunteering regularly to suit your availability with occasional attendance at meetings
- Use your skills and experience to contribute to the success of our charity and make a positive difference to the countryside
- Meet like‐minded people and enjoy being part of a team
- Enhance your CV by developing new skills and gaining valuable experience
- 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
- 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 provide out‐of‐pocket travel expenses
Planning volunteer (Lancashire) in Burnley employer: CPRE Rutland
Joining our charity as a Planning Volunteer in Lancashire offers you the chance to make a meaningful impact on the countryside while working alongside a passionate and supportive team. You'll gain invaluable experience in the planning process, enhance your skills, and contribute to vital environmental initiatives, all within a friendly community atmosphere. With opportunities for personal growth, training, and networking at local and national events, this role is perfect for those looking to champion sustainability and conservation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning volunteer (Lancashire) in Burnley
✨Tap into Local Environmental Groups
Get involved with local environmental organisations and community groups focused on sustainability. These are often looking for passionate volunteers and can be a great way to meet like-minded people while boosting your visibility in the sector.
✨Leverage Online Sustainability Platforms
Join online platforms and forums dedicated to sustainability and environmental management. Websites like Ecology Jobs or EnvironmentalJobs offer volunteer opportunities that can connect you to organisations eager to make a difference. Keep your eyes peeled for postings!
✨Show Your Passion on Social Media
Share your journey and interests in sustainability on social media. Post about environmental issues, share articles, or volunteer experiences. This not only showcases your commitment but can also attract attention from organisations like CPRE Rutland looking for enthusiastic volunteers.
✨Engage with University or Community Initiatives
If you’re connected to a university, check out their sustainability programs or volunteering initiatives. Many universities have partnerships with local organisations, and volunteering through these channels can often lead to valuable experience—and possibly further opportunities later on!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning volunteer (Lancashire) in Burnley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sustainability:When applying for a volunteer position in sustainability and environmental management, make sure to highlight your passion for the field. Use your cover letter to share your motivations and any relevant experiences, whether it’s coursework, volunteering, or personal initiatives that showcase your commitment to environmental issues.
Emphasise Relevant Skills and Knowledge:In your CV, focus on any skills or knowledge specific to sustainability, like familiarity with environmental policies, project management, or ecological research. If you've worked on sustainability projects or participated in workshops, include those details to illustrate your hands-on experience.
Tailor Your Application to the Organisation:Research CPRE Rutland and incorporate specifics about their projects or mission into your application. By aligning your values and interests with theirs, you’ll show you’ve got a genuine interest in what they do and that you’re ready to contribute to their initiatives.
Keep It Personal and Conversational:Seeing as this is a volunteer role, don't be afraid to let your personality shine through. Write your application in a friendly but serious tone; express your enthusiasm for volunteering and how you believe it will help you grow while benefiting CPRE Rutland at the same time. It's all about creating a connection!
How to prepare for a job interview at CPRE Rutland
✨Get Passionate About the Cause
This isn’t just a gig; it’s about making a difference! So, let your passion for sustainability shine through. Be ready to discuss not only why you care about the environment but also how you've engaged with it in the past, whether through volunteering, personal projects, or education.
✨Know Your Tools and Techniques
Familiarise yourself with the tools and methodologies commonly used in sustainability and environmental management. Whether it’s understanding waste management systems or carbon footprint calculations, being savvy about these specific areas will show that you’re not just interested but knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Relevant Experience
As a volunteer, you might not have years of experience, but that’s okay! Talk about any relevant projects, coursework, or even personal initiatives that relate to sustainability. Put together a portfolio showcasing these experiences—photos, reports, anything that highlights your contributions can make you stand out!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some practical questions that might put you in real-life sustainability scenarios. You could be asked how you would address waste issues in a community event or what approach you’d take to promote recycling. Think through these scenarios ahead of time so you can respond thoughtfully and confidently.
