Restore the Thaw

Where: Activities are mainly based at Porthkerry Park with some sessions taking place at Aberthaw Nature Reserve, Rhoose Point Nature Reserve and Amelia Trust Farm.

When: Tuesdays 10 am – 2 pm

This opportunity is provided by Innovate Trust, a Welsh charity which supports people with learning disabilities to lead fulfilled lives at home and in the community.

Restore the Thaw is an environmental conservation project which aims to boost the biodiversity of the River Thaw catchment area. Innovate Trust are working alongside the Vale of Glamorgan Countryside team to carry out environmental improvement work such as tree planting, building wildlife habitats and creating ponds. This exciting project is also aiming to support the reintroduction of beavers to the area as well as boosting existing otter and adder populations.

We’re looking for volunteers who would like to work alongside people with learning disabilities, supporting them to carry out practical environmental conservation tasks. The role is perfect for someone who’s interested in nature and wildlife and enjoys meeting new people and working outdoors.

The role:

• Ideally you will regularly attend weekly sessions.
• The Vale rangers will set tasks for the session so it doesn’t matter if you don’t have any previous conservation volunteering experience.
• You’ll carry out environmental conservation work alongside people with learning disabilities, supporting and encouraging them to achieve tasks.
• There will be additional, ad-hoc one-off sessions which you can choose to join if you wish.
• Comprehensive training will be provided and you’ll be well supported by Innovate Trust who will always have a staff member present.

Aims:

• To help people with learning disabilities to enjoy the benefits of volunteering.
• To help build the confidence and wellbeing of people with learning disabilities.
• To challenge the public’s expectations and assumptions about people with learning disabilities, particularly their ability to volunteer and make a valuable contribution to the community.
• To help boost biodiversity and protect the natural environment along the River Thaw.

Application process:

1. Complete SVC’s Volunteer Application Form
2. DBS check and suitable references required
3. Attend volunteer training with Innovate Trust

This project is funded by the Vale of Glamorgan’s Strong Communities Grant Fund.