The Millennium Volunteers scheme is open to all 16 – 24 year olds with support provided for travel expenses, lunch, refreshments and even help with childcare if required.
Volunteers would receive professional training in practical countryside management, access, wildlife habitats and visitor services from trained National Park staff.
Starting the recruitment drive earlier this week, the aim is to start the practical countryside management sessions at the end of September.
Clare Parsons, Sustainable Communities Manager for Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority said: “Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority is just one of many areas to receive a share from the Millennium Volunteers scheme latest round of funding to help recruit and train volunteers.
“From building dry stone walls to liaising with our visitors or designing information and promotional materials, volunteers play an invaluable role in building stronger communities. Some of our most experienced Area Managers and wardens at the National Park started their careers as volunteers so it just goes to prove that not only will our communities benefit but our volunteers will receive expert guidance and better employment opportunities in their chosen career fields.”
Alan Ward, Eastern Area Manager for Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority said that as a former volunteer himself he understood how rewarding the scheme could be.
“I first started volunteering for the National Park back in the late 1960’s whilst I was in school in Brecon. There were only two full time Wardens then and I mainly worked on public footpaths and bridleways. After I left school I joined the Merchant Navy as a Navigating Officer but I still continued to work as a volunteer on my leave.
“In 1986 after leaving the merchant navy and oil industry I became almost a full time volunteer and, when a post was available I successfully applied for the Warden post based in Abergavenny in 1988. That was twenty years ago and I’m now Area Manager for the eastern half of the National Park with a large team of wardens reporting to me. Hopefully this story proves that being a volunteer can pay off!”
The Millennium Volunteers programme is a UK wide initiative designed to promote and recognise volunteering among young people aged 16 – 24.
A detailed information sheet and application pack is available from millennium.volunteers@breconbeacons.org or contact Ceri Bevan on 01874 620 471.
-ENDS-
Pictures: Copyright of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority
NOTES TO EDITORS
The Millennium Volunteers programme aims to:
• Make a positive impact within local communities.
• Offer challenging and interesting volunteering opportunities for all young people.
• Enable young people to acquire new skills and knowledge and develop personally.
• Increase recognition of volunteering by young people in the community.
• Set a standard for volunteering opportunities in Wales.
• Encourage ownership of the programme by young people