Mersehead forms part of the RSPB’s residential volunteering scheme and every year we are visited by people from all walks of life, all looking for new experiences and the opportunity to gain skills from working on our nature reserves. Our short-term residential placement (2 weeks) is a great way to discover locations, meet new people and become part of the reserve team. It is also a fantastic way to test the water and explore whether pursuing a career in conservation is the right step for you.
Once you have decided that conservation is the thing for you, our long-term placements, which usually last for 6 months, are a brilliant way to develop and gain the skills and experiences you will need when applying for jobs in conservation. The residential scheme is a great opportunity for volunteers to experience the often hectic life involved in working on a reserve, there is always plenty of things going on and the variety of work is never ending which is what I love most! Our volunteers live in a recently converted flat in the farmhouse which is located in the heart of the reserve with stunning views and wildlife experiences literally on the doorstep.
We are currently looking for two long-term volunteers to join the Mersehead team over the summer so if you are inspired to join us, have a look through the job descriptions on our website and get in touch with the Residential Volunteering team at the Lodge to arrange an interview. There are still short-term placements available throughout July and August but watch out, as these placements fill quickly!
Rowena Flavelle
Warden, Mersehead and Kirkconell Reserves, RSPB Scotland