At the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust we want to have a strong and powerful voice for Nature. Our ambitions are high and we must do what we can to reverse the decline of wildlife in Yorkshire for the generations to come. Much of our work is delivered by dedicated and skilled volunteers, who are some of our most knowledgeable people locally.

Our Policy Team use expert knowledge and the latest research to develop evidence informed documents for use by Trust staff. These include:

• Position Statement – A concise, evidence-informed document which clearly sets out YWT’s position on either a current contentious or important issue, including any ‘red lines’, areas where we actively practice ambiguity or diplomacy, or a strategic priority.

• Line to take – This may be a shortened version of a Position statement which has been adapted for a specific public audience, or it might be a stand-alone statement that has been developed to react to an issue/opportunity that has arisen.

• Policy – A document that provides guidelines that outline and guide actions, acceptable methods or behaviours in respect to YWT’s work. Policies are applicable to the entire organisation and are primarily intended to set direction.

• Guidance document – A clear and informed document which aims to support and advise the intended audience (e.g. YWT staff, Trustees, and our partners) about how we will undertake our work. For example, this document may set out a code of practice for a particular approach to wildlife management.  

To help develop these important Trust documents, the Policy Team need to conduct meticulous research to ensure positions, and the Trust’s work more widely, is as evidence informed as possible. That, is where you come in…

You will be volunteering within the Planning Team to help us research a current position or policy in development. This will predominantly be a desk-based exercise, with some scope for original evidence gathering as appropriate. We are looking for a commitment of at least one day a week, but this can be flexible to work around you. The role can be based at home, or we'd love to welcome you to one of our offices in York, Doncaster or Huddersfield.

We're looking for someone with:

• Excellent organisation and research skills.
• Motivation, and a dedication to ensuring information is accurate and evidence based.
• Good communication skills
• Efficiency at using Microsoft Word and email.
• An existing knowledge of policy development would be helpful but not essential as a full induction will be provided.
• Access to a computer or laptop at home with good internet connection is desirable but not essential.

In return we can offer you:

• The opportunity to gain experience and knowledge in the processes and procedures of the UK planning system
• Dedicated in-house induction on the planning process
• Learning on how to use GIS, a valuable skill which will look great on your CV
• Being part of a small, friendly team who are passionate about protecting our wild landscapes
• Access to our free internal volunteer training programme delivered by our expert staff and volunteers, including invitations to special volunteering networking events

To find out more and apply, please read the full Volunteer Role Description below and send your completed volunteer application form to volunteering@ywt.org.uk