As part of our lead-up to Volunteers Week, we'll be hearing from some of the volunteering champions who give their time and effort into aiding the RSPB's cause, and giving nature a home. Today we hear from Louise, and her efforts to help protect a favourite summer visitor.
I was thrilled to join the RSPB as Volunteer Swift Champion and Urban Case Worker this February; just in time to enthuse and educate locals about their plight, ahead of the forthcoming season. For hundreds of years swifts have nested alongside us, but new builds and roofing renovations block access to the eaves and they are losing their homes. I have put together a display, which I take to local events, along with a selection of homemade boxes - something which has led to the creation of several potential new colonies in Bolton, Bury and beyond! I am loving visiting local groups and speaking to them about these stunning birds (who have got much to shout about), explaining why they are in need of help but more importantly what can be done. With the help of my hubby, we have even supplied a local Nature Reserve with a bespoke Swift Tower. Next we are installing boxes at our local school and I'll be talking to pupils about the project. I am also scanning planning applications for opportunities to suggest inclusion of swift bricks and endeavouring to forge links with local organisations. Do get in touch if you wish to help save swifts! louise.bentley@rspb.org.uk
Fancy joining the RSPB as a volunteer? You can see all our opportunities on the volunteering page of the website, here: http://www.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/community-and-advice/volunteer/ or call our dedicated Volunteering Department on 01767 680551