Gardening and Maintenance (Bath)

Overview of opportunity

Working with the Branch staff and other volunteers, as a Gardening and Maintenance Volunteer, you will be helping us keep the Branch and its grounds looking spick and span for visitors. This essential role helps us maintain our facilities and free up vital funds which can then go towards helping animals in need.

You will be joining our small (but perfectly formed) Maintenance team which consists of two paid members of staff and a handful of wonderfully dedicated volunteers. Those interested will need a sense of humour, enthusiasm and willingness to work within a team.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Bath & District Branch

The Bath & District Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

We run the Bath Cats & Dogs Home, a large rescue centre based on the outskirts of Bath which provides a safe space for lost and unwanted cats and dogs in the local area. Based in the beautiful greenery of Claverton Down, our 10-acre site is in need of some Grounds & Maintenance volunteers!

Volunteer Gardening and Maintenance responsibilities

• Assisting with a wide range of maintenance tasks including: o Lawn mowing and strimming. o Weeding, pruning and general maintenance of garden areas and borders. o Preparing, sanding, and painting external doors and windows. o Window cleaning. o Sweeping and tidying the site.
• Helping maintain the animal accommodation where necessary.
• Helping with any new projects such as wildlife garden areas or play areas for children.
• Preparing the grounds for open days and other events.
• Various repair jobs that may arise.

What we are looking for in a Gardening and Maintenance volunteer

• Someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment predominately of two-four hours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays or Saturdays.
• Willingness to pitch in, help out, and get your hands dirty
• Experience in a relevant trade is desirable but not essential.
• Some heavy lifting will be involved; however, H&S training is provided.
• Volunteers aged 18 or over.

What we can offer you as a Gardening and Maintenance volunteer

• You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the animals in your area.
• Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.
• Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and training programme.
• Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch! To apply please fill out our online form. For more information, please contact Hayley Crymble, Volunteer Engagement Manager.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependant on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.