Visitor Support Volunteer

The Lake District National Park welcomes over 19 million visitors every year. On busy days even the most experienced visitor might find themselves stuck for information or somewhere to park, and that's where our Visitor Support Volunteers step in. Based in hotspot areas in the Lake District like Buttermere, Coniston, Glenridding and Grasmere, our volunteers help provide an informative welcome to all visitors. We provide information on what to do, where to park safely and how to make sure visitors leave no trace when they go home.

What will I be doing?

Our Visitor Support Volunteers will:

• Provide information about activities in the local area
• Manage the flow of visitors around the Lake District by directing visitors away from busy areas
• Report on the visitor levels, parking patterns, littering and other issues
• Promote the Countryside Code and 'Leave No Trace' to visitors
• Give a short summary report at the end of your duty

What skills do I need?

This role will suit you if you are:

• Happy meeting new people - there'll be plenty every day!
• Self-sufficient - the car park team will check in regularly but you'll be acting independently for the majority of your duty
• Knowledgeable about the Lake District - you'll know where is busy and where people might go instead
• Smart-phone savvy - reports and contact will primarily be through WhatsApp, and you'll need to use websites to direct visitors

How often will I need to volunteer?

We recommend that volunteers undertake a minimum of one duty a month so you build up a knowledge of the duty and a rapport with the rest of the team. You can do more if you'd like to! Duties last up to four hours, and are split into morning or afternoon shifts to ensure we cover the busiest times of the day. Our duties are focussed on weekends, but there will be opportunities to volunteer in the week too.

What training will I receive?

We will provide a telephone and / or on-site briefing in advance of your first duty, and you will initially be paired up with a more experienced volunteer to show you the ropes.

Each time you are out volunteering there will be regular visits from LDNPA staff and Rangers, as well as support from other partner organisations. You'll also be a member of WhatsApp groups that provide immediate information and support.

What's in it for me?

This role is perfect for volunteers who are looking to meet new people, learn new skills and join a vibrant team. You'll get to meet people from all over the world and share your knowledge and passion for the Lake District.

In addition, you'll receive:

• Volunteer uniform, provided by our clothing partner Columbia.
• A LDNPA parking permit that can be used throughout the Lake District
• Discounts in Lake District National Park Authority shops and cafes
• Out of pocket expenses for travel to your volunteering location

How do I apply?

Recruitment for new Visitor Support Volunteers is paused. We hope to be recruiting again later in the year.

Any more questions?

You can give the Volunteers Service a call on 01539 792606 or drop us an email.