Volunteer Talks and Events Organiser

Who Are We?

Wild About Warnham (WAW) is a local community conservation group working to protect and celebrate wildlife in and around Warnham. The group manages wildlife habitat, particularly in the Warnham Butterfly Fields, undertakes wildlife recording and surveys, and runs talks and events that encourage local people to learn about and take action for nature.

The Role

The Volunteer Talks and Events Organiser will help WAW plan, coordinate and promote an engaging programme of talks, walks, and awareness-raising activities. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys bringing people together, is well organised, and wants to provide opportunities for people learn about wildlife and conservation in an informative and entertaining way.

Main Responsibilities:

• Work with other WAW volunteers to agree a varied programme of talks and walks.
• Identify and contact potential speakers, walk leaders, partner organisations and venues.
• Coordinate event dates, timings, room bookings, equipment needs and other arrangements.
• Prepare simple event information for publicity, including titles, descriptions, dates, times, locations and booking details.
• Help promote events through local networks, parish communications, social media, noticeboards and partner organisations.
• Liaise with speakers and volunteers before each event so that everyone understands the arrangements.
• Help welcome attendees, support sign-in or donations where appropriate, and ensure events run smoothly.
• Keep basic records of planned events, attendance, contacts and any follow-up actions.
• Support safe and inclusive events by following WAW’s guidance on health and safety, accessibility, safeguarding and data protection.
• Seek informal feedback from attendees and volunteers to improve future talks and events.

Time Commitment

This is a flexible volunteer role. The time needed will vary depending on the number and size of events being planned with, typically, two talks and three guided walks each year. As a guide, the role could involve two or three hours each month, with extra time in the lead-up to talks or events. Some availability during evenings or weekends may be useful.  Our talks usually take place on a Friday evening and walks at a weekend.

Location

Our talks are generally held in Warnham Village Hall, with walks in the Warnham Butterfly Fields, or other suitable locations connected with WAW’s conservation activities. Administrative tasks can be done from home. 

Support and Training

WAW will provide induction training about the group, its aims and current activities. You would be supported by other members and will receive guidance on event planning, local contacts, publicity channels, H&S expectations and any relevant group procedures. No specialist conservation knowledge is required, although enthusiasm for nature and community action is very welcome.

What You Will Gain

• The chance to make a positive difference for wildlife and people in Warnham.
• Experience in event planning, community engagement and volunteer coordination.
• Opportunities to meet local people, conservation volunteers and wildlife specialists.
• A friendly and supportive volunteer environment.
• The satisfaction of helping more people learn about, enjoy and protect local nature.

Practical Information

• This is an unpaid voluntary role.
• Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed by agreement in advance.
• The volunteer will be expected to follow WAW’s relevant policies and guidance, including health and safety and respectful conduct.
• The role can be adapted where possible to suit the volunteer’s availability, experience and access needs.

What skills do I need?

Skills and Qualities: 

• Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Friendly, reliable and confident communicating with a range of people.
• Comfortable using email, phone and basic digital tools to arrange and promote events.
• An interest in wildlife, conservation and community engagement.
• Ability to work as part of a small volunteer team and use initiative when needed.
• Experience of organising events, talks, community activities or publicity would be helpful, but is not essential.