This summer I took a week out from my holiday to take a residential placement at South Stack in Anglesey. This is my second residential volunteering and after I enjoyed my time in Blacktoft Sands last year immensely, there was no questioning that I’d go somewhere this year.
So at South Stack my role was visitor centre based and as it was in the summer holiday, work was plentiful. I spent my days talking to visitors, helping them discover nature and point out what the stunning reserve has to offer. The amazing location brought out the holiday makers and at the end of the day you truly feel you’ve made someone’s day memorable (even if it’s just the good cake). When the sun's shining, the Choughs are calling and the porpoise are in viewing distance for the public, it’s happy days!
Working at South Stack was something well worth waking up for, but the evenings were just as fun. When you’ve got a house of volunteers, a similar interest and a car, the adventures are waiting to be taken. If you ever get the chance to go to Anglesey the beaches there are definitely worth a visit. Spending the evening lying on warm sand with not a cloud in the sky was heaven when you’ve been on your feet all day. My favourite night time moment though was definitely watching the meteor shower outside the house. My fellow colleague wasn’t used to having no street lamps and there isn’t any light pollution at South Stack. Honestly the stars were a spectacular sight that night. Seeing my first Chough was exciting enough, but when we saw an adder one morning, that topped the day off, the week perhaps. Or when a porpoise mother and calf swam so close to the cliff binoculars weren’t needed, it’s extremely difficult to leave when it’s over.
For me the list of skills I’ve learnt are endless from an experience like this. Not least those which will equip me when I go to university next year. But these residentials are perfect for any age. I only did a week but some run for a lot longer. I guarantee the friendships and sense of achievement will be something you’ll never forget.
I hope I’ve sufficiently wetted your taste buds and persuaded you to get out there and find your next adventure. Look here for the brochure of all the places you can contribute to: http://www.rspb.org.uk/joinandhelp/volunteering/residential.aspx
The RSPB is made of an amazing volunteer force, go and join it!
Leanne
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