30 November 2021 

Three young people with a passion for nature and the outdoors are being recruited to work in Cornwall and Devon as part of a Government-funded boost for green jobs and nature recovery.

We've been awarded a grant from the Government’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund for our Connecting Communities project, which aims to connect, engage and inspire more people to access, care for, and play their role in protecting the great outdoors.

As part of the project, we're recruiting three young people aged 18 to 25 to join us as Trainee Environment and Engagement Rangers. During the 15-month project, the trainees will develop their skills and experience in environmental management and conservation of habitats and species. They will also develop and deliver engagement and conservation activities with community groups and volunteers.

The Connecting Communities project will be based at Tamar Lakes in North Cornwall and focus on three lakes – Tamar, Wistlandpound in North Devon and Stithians Lake in West Cornwall.

South West Lakes Chief Executive James Platts said: “Our charity is dedicated to providing access to great outdoor spaces and we recognise that now more than ever, people value places where they can relax, exercise and spend time away from the pressures of everyday life. However, we must also safeguard these places for future generations.

“Our new recruits will work with local groups in each area to develop environment and engagement projects which will benefit the physical and mental wellbeing of the whole community.”

The trainees will work closely our environment and engagement rangers as well as project lead Rick Lockwood, who has joined us from the Barn Owl Trust. He said: “We’re really keen to encourage diversity and inclusion in the environmental sector. For that reason, we particularly welcome applications from young people who haven’t been to university, are from minority ethnic backgrounds or those who live in deprived areas in North Cornwall and North Devon.

“The project is about providing training and employment opportunities for people who wish to pursue a career in the environmental sector and helping them build skills, knowledge and capacity for the future.”

The Connecting Communities project is funded by the Government's Green Recovery Challenge Fund. The fund was developed by Defra and its Arm's-Length Bodies. It is being delivered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with Natural England, the Environment Agency and Forestry Commission.

For more information and to apply visit swlakestrust.org.uk/join-the-team

About us 

We believe engaging with the natural environment enables people to grow. Our reservoirs and lakes are home to many wonderful animals and boast important habitats and built historic sites. We pride ourselves on enabling people of all abilities to enjoy these special locations by providing access both on and off the water. It’s your outdoors – come and explore.