Coral
Smith has been a full time volunteer with the National Trust and
Cornwall Wildlife Trust over the spring and summer. Here’s her
story:
Photograph
by Abby Crosby
‘I
started as a full time volunteer (FTV) in April this year. My role
was different to the usual National Trust’s FTVs as my time was
split between the National Trust and the Cornwall Wildlife Trust,
specifically through supporting the Polzeath Voluntary Marine
Conservation Area (VMCA). The aim of my role was to bring the
organisations closer together as both share a vested interest in the
local area. Before I started, I felt I needed more experience in the
conservation sector and this placement looked like a great
opportunity for me to get involved with two highly respected
conservation charities, and also the chance to live and work in a
beautiful place for six months. More specifically, I hoped to gain
some much needed practical skills, as well as continue to develop my
marine conservation experience and working with the public. During
my time in North Cornwall, I have learned a wide variety of practical
conservation skills, attended a number of events representing the
National Trust/Polzeath VMCA, and met and worked with some amazing
people. During these six months I was also able to complete a Level
2 Diploma in Work Based Environmental Conservation, thanks to my
National Trust work. Through ongoing training courses provided by
both organisations, as well as my experiences over the six months, I
have gained valuable skills which I really hope will help lead me
into a career in Environmental Education and Conservation.’
Photograph by Sarah Stevens
This
was the first time the National Trust and Cornwall Wildlife Trust
have shared a full time volunteer. But it has worked well and Coral
has been a fantastic asset to both charities. We wish her well in the
future.
We
may have another FTV of this type next year, as this year has been
such a success. The National Trust has a team of three full time
volunteers all year round, but we are always keen to recruit new
volunteers for a variety of part time / casual roles such as
volunteer Ranger, surveyor, photographer, event assistant and litter
picker. If you have some spare time and want to put something back
into your local environment, please get in touch
sarahe.stevens@nationaltrust.org.uk
