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Wildlife Volunteer

The Abbotsford Trust
VO100099

Why we want you:
The Abbotsford Trust welcomes over 40,000 visitors a year from all over the world. We have been a world-famous visitor attraction since Sir Walter Scott died in 1832. Taken over by a charitable trust in 2007, our mission is to care for his house, estate and collection and share his legacy with the world.

The Abbotsford Trust cares for 120 acres of land beside the Tweed, made up of meadow and native woodland much of it planted by Sir Walter Scott himself. The Abbotsford Trust is committed to using the environment for the benefit of wildlife by promoting, supporting and enhancing its diversity on the Estate.

We are looking for friendly individuals to work alongside the estates team in the role of Wildlife Volunteer. This is a practical based opportunity working within Abbotsford’s woodland and estate under the direction of the Head Gardener to help maintain and preserve Abbotsford's Estate both as a natural wildlife habitat and a place for the public to enjoy.

A regular, reliable commitment is appreciated as is the ability to work as part of a team. This opportunity would suit someone who is happy to be based outdoors.

What you will be doing:
Monitor and maintain wildlife cameras across the site
Monitor and maintain wildlife feeding stations
Under the supervision of the Head Gardener conduct surveys of habitats, wildflowers, butterflies, birds
Assist with maintaining accurate records of sightings and results of specific monitoring
Assist with analysis of wildlife activity and sightings across the estate
Supporting the Head Gardener to encourage and assist other wildlife groups who may wish to visit the estate
Engaging with visitors to the estate in relation to wildlife at Abbotsford
Undertaking any training deemed relevant
Working by yourself or with other volunteers/staff
Working within Abbotsford’s Health and Safety Policy at all times

The skills you need:
Be reasonably fit and healthy
Be able to keep accurate records
IT literate (training on specific systems will be provided)

What's in it for you:
Become involved and contribute to an internationally significant heritage site
Be an ambassador for Abbotsford, Sir Walter Scott and The Abbotsford Trust
Meet a wide variety of people, including staff, trustees, other volunteers and visitors from around the globe
Volunteers are entitled to claim the costs of travel from their home to Abbotsford (conditions apply).
10% discount in Ochiltree’s café
10% discount on the cost of admission to events
20% discount in the Visitor Centre shop (with volunteer pass)
Opportunities to apply for posts restricted to internal only advertising
Use of ASVA cards (Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions) OR Historic Houses Association
2x guest passes for friends and family each season

Travel details

Abbotsford House, Melrose, Scottish Borders

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Training details

Induction – volunteers will undergo an induction process which includes a first day induction with their volunteer manager, a general induction group session introducing them to the Abbotsford Trust, a guided tour of the house and gardens and several shadowing sessions. Additional role-specific training may be required.

• On-going training – training will be provided as and when necessary.

• Support – volunteers will receive regular support through their volunteer manager who will be their main point of contact for information, queries, advice and feedback