Volunteering with the Ranger Service

Become a Volunteer Ranger

The Ranger Service has an active and extensive volunteer programme, which is open to anyone over the age of 16.

There are many benefits to becoming a Volunteer Ranger. People join us for many different reasons, for example:

to gain experience in rangering
for general employment experience
to make a difference in the community and environment
for ‘something good to do’

Types of Tasks Undertaken

Volunteer Rangers may be asked to undertake any reasonable tasks that support the work of the Parks & Countryside service.

These tasks may involve:

Dealing directly with the general public
Work related to the enhancement & regeneration of parks, woodlands & countryside
Assisting in the planning and implementation of agreed projects and plans
Administrative support where relevant
Public consultation in accordance with laid down City Council practices.
Working unsociable hours and weekends where necessary

Volunteers may chose to work as often as they wish however this must be in agreement with staff working at their base site. Volunteers are expected to be punctual, reliable and ready for hard work. Volunteering should be viewed in a similar manner to a normal job in these respects.

A typical "Practical Task Day"

To outline a typical day is quite difficult, due to the diverse nature of Ranger work. However, the timetable below is an example of a typical ‘practical task’ day

Time	Action / Task
9.00 am	- Arrive at your base ready for work
9.15 am	- Briefing on the days work - load vehicle(s) with tools & materials.
9.30 am	- Travel to site.
10.00 am	- Work on task.
12.00 pm	- Lunch break.
12.30 pm	- Complete task.
4.00 pm	- Return to base, unload tools, review days work.
4.30 pm	- Home time.

The work is very varied and the above timetable should be seen as a guide only. Volunteers may be asked to work evenings and weekends and to be flexible in their working hours to match the needs of the service.

Opportunities to Work "Behind the Scenes"

As well as spending time on practical tasks, volunteers will be given the opportunity to learn what goes on ‘behind the scenes’ to facilitate the ongoing work of the service. This could include ordering and collecting materials, maintaining tools, liaising with the public and organised groups, working with schools, organising and attending meetings and supervising colleagues and the public where appropriate.

Gain Valuable Skills and Experience

Volunteering offers an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and gain a good insight into practical rangering. No previous experience whatsoever is necessary, and training for all tasks will be provided where required. Opportunities will be available to gain experience with a wide range of tools and equipment, as well as with people from all walks of life, both volunteer and professional.

Volunteers showing a regular commitment may also be offered the opportunity to study for qualifications such as NVQ’s or practical certificates such as chainsaw, brushcutter, or pesticides application.

Things That You Will Need To Bring

When volunteering with the Ranger Service, you will probably need to bring:

A packed meal. (Also possibly a thermos flask with a hot drink).
Sensible clothing which you do not mind getting dirty.
Strong footwear.
Waterproof clothing.

Things That We Will Provide

As well as providing you training, the Ranger service will provide all necessary protective clothing for the task you are doing. After a short trial period, volunteers who show a regular commitment may be reimbursed for reasonable ‘out of pocket’ expenses.

Interested?

If you are interested in volunteering please contact the Ranger Service Head Office on 0114 250 0500 or email parksandcountryside@sheffield.gov.uk

We look forward to hearing from you.

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