BTCV was named as Charity Times Charity of the Year at a glittering awards ceremony in London last night.
We were named winners in the category for charities with turnover in excess of £1m beating off stiff opposition.
The ceremony was hosted by comedian Ruby Wax and BTCV’s chief executive Tom Flood CBE and chairman Rupert Evenett collected the award.
BTCV was also shortlisted for the Charity Times Corporate Community Local Involvement award with partner National Grid for our excellent Skelton Grange Environment Centre in Leeds.
There’s much more to BTCV than improving places as our colleagues in Cumbria have proved
BTCV Employment Services Workington held a community garden open day to showcase their superb work bringing families – and communities - together.
Over the past six months BTCV and NACRO, the crime reduction charity, have worked to create a fully working garden with wild flowers, fruit and vegetables.
The garden helps to teach BTCV volunteers and under privileged children about team-work, gardening skills, and healthy living. The groups even cooks and eats the produce it grows.
The fun day, opened by Allerdale MP Tony Cunningham, featured a bouncy castle, fire engine, cake stall and BBQ.
Young biodiversity apprentices working with BTCV joined together in the Outer Hebrides to record more than 200 species.
The event, held on Uist, was organised by BTCV Natural Talent apprentice Keiren Jones who has been based on the remote island for two years.
To mark the International Year of Biodiversity, Keiren and fellow apprentices from the mainland were joined by 60 locals to identify and record species.
The "bioblitz” team concentrated on birds, insects and fungi because the machair's flora is being surveyed by other groups.
Several positive identifications were made including the threatened Great Yellow Bumblebee.
The Trust has launched a national search for England’s star achievers to recognise young volunteers and activists aged 16-25.
Winners will receive a cash prize and a year of support and development opportunities.
Do you know an inspirational young person who has made an outstanding contribution to the arts, environment, community or sports?
Celebrate their achievements by giving them the chance to win a cash prize plus a year of support and development opportunities.
Russell Brooks, Chair of the Young Achievers Trust, said: “By celebrating young people we hope to inspire a new generation to be engaged in action based volunteering to make a real and visible difference to our society”.
To find out more about the awards or make a nominations
click here
An Elephant-Sized Donation
Friday, 27 August 2010
Progress at a community project in Kent is set to speed ahead thanks to a donation from a local windows and conservatory company.
Elephant Windows has donated around 10 tonnes of top soil for a new environmental project at The Singleton Environment Centre, which is run by BTCV.
Mayor of Ashford, Councillor Allen Wells was on hand to meet the volunteers when the soil was delivered earlier this week. The soil will be used for the centre’s new three tier vegetable allotment which has been constructed by volunteers of the Green Gym.
The donation from Elephant Windows follows in the footsteps of the company's save the planet campaign, which sees them plant a tree in the Kent area for every conservatory they sell.
“We are delighted to be helping The Singleton Environment Centre and the members of the Green Gym,” commented Gemma Collins of Elephant Windows.
She continued: “The members of the centre are from all walks of life within the community and projects such as their new allotment are crucial for the local area. Environmental issues are incredibly important to us; as a company we do our upmost to help wherever possible.”
Sophie Walkden from the Green Gym said: "We are delighted to receive this free top soil from Elephant. As a small volunteer community group, this generous donation will enable us to complete the allotment area faster than we otherwise might have done."
To find out about BTCV volunteering opportunities in Kent click here
BTCV to Help Start the Party!
Wednesday, 25 August 2010
BTCV will be joining a host of celebrities, environmental experts and some of the best known organisations in Britain to take part in Start’s ‘Garden Party To Make A Difference’ next month.
The 12 day ‘eco festival’, to be held in the gardens of Clarence House, Lancaster House and Marlborough House in London, brings together music, debate, comedy, food, fashion, garden and home to provide a fun day out, as well as looking at ways we can all begin to build a more sustainable future.
Each area of the festival will be curated by a celebrity champion, including Music by Jools Holland, Food and the Great Outdoors by Kate Humble, Growing and Gardens by Alan Titchmarsh and Fashion by Dame Vivienne Westwood.
Launched in February this year, Start is a national initiative by Prince Charles' Charities Foundation to promote and celebrate sustainable living.
Start’s ‘Garden Party To Make A Difference’ runs from the 8th to the 19th September from 10am to 6pm each day. Tickets are now on sale.
For more information on Start and this summer’s festival, click here
Green Gym Goes Glam!
Monday, 23 August 2010
Renfrewshire Green Gym got its very own glamorous assistant when Cora Buchanan, a beauty pageant queen, paid a visit.
Cora, otherwise known as Miss Earth Renfrewshire, is a contestant in the nationwide Miss Earth competition, a beauty pageant that aims to promote environmental awareness. Whilst being a traditional beauty contest, participants also have to demonstrate their commitment to green values.
As well as finding out what BTCV is all about, Cora helped volunteers at Renfrewshire Green Gym at Linwood Community Garden to tend their veggie patch and harvest their crop of tatties.
If she goes on to be successful in the competition, Cora’s main aim is highlight the issue of deforestation.
The winner will be announced on Saturday 11 September at a Grand Final in Blackpool.
To find out more about Miss Earth or to cast a vote, click here
MP Lends a Helping Hand
Friday, 20 August 2010
Another day, another story about politicians getting their hands dirty with BTCV!
This time it’s the turn of Sheffield Heeley MP Meg Munn, who recently joined a group of volunteers in Gleedless Valley Nature Reserve in Sheffield.
Meg and the volunteers worked hard cutting back weeds and shovelling soil, picking up litter and clearing a pathway through the reserve. Other volunteers worked on similar tasks to ensure that the reserve is welcoming to local people and animals and plants.
Meg Munn MP said: ‘With a dozen volunteers here, all working extremely hard, we have a great feeling of team work. I thoroughly enjoyed my time clearing the path; there is a real sense of achievement when you see the difference your hard work is making.’
For more information on volunteering in South Yorkshire click here
Minister Digs In With BTCV’s Carbon Army
Wednesday, 18 August 2010
Charles Hendry, Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change, joined environmental charity BTCV to help improve a popular community garden in central London yesterday.
Mr Hendry worked with volunteers from BTCV’s Carbon Army on a range of conservation tasks at the Calthorpe Project in Kings Cross, a green space and community centre providing local people with a food growing area, sports facilities and resources to learn about the environment.
Mr Hendry was keen to offer his support to BTCV’s Carbon Army campaign which encourages people to join forces and take practical action to tackle climate change.
Charles Hendry said: ‘I have been very impressed by what I have seen. Climate change is a global problem and but it can be tackled if we all play our part - Government, businesses, and all of us as citizens.
By taking direct action, by advocating a more climate friendly way of life and by encouraging Government to do the right thing, the Carbon Army is making an immense contribution.’
Tom Flood CBE, BTCV’s Chief Executive, commented: ‘It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister and we were delighted to be able to show him what BTCV does firsthand. As Mr Hendry discovered, our Carbon Army campaign is all about frontline action on climate change and allows people to directly make a difference.’
For more information on BTCV’s Carbon Army Click here
York's Teenagers Get Involved With Volunteering
Friday, 13 August 2010
Forget festivals and parties - York teenagers are busy making a difference with BTCV.
The Feel Involved programme, part of York Youth Community Action, aims to involve 14-16 year olds in volunteering and community action activities.
BTCV York Youth team has already run volunteering opportunities for 655 young people over the last three months.
Activities have so far included replanting the gardens of a respite home, compiling an OPAL worm survey, cleaning up an allotment, building a compost bin, painting an orchard fence, making benches, bramble bashing, a giant litter pick and making lots of bird boxes!
The Feel Involved programme, York Youth Community Action, is being managed by the City of York Council in partnership with the York Council for Voluntary Service and York Cares.
For more information on the project and BTCV York Youth click here
Network Rail and BTCV Help Milton Keynes Go Green!
Wednesday, 11 August 2010
Network Rail and BTCV have joined forces to encourage people in Milton Keynes to get involved with improving their local environment.
As part of the new partnership, Network Rail has donated £25,000 to BTCV to help fund the development and management of a practical environmental volunteer programme.
BTCV will deliver the scheme which aims to encourage volunteers to come forward and take a more active role in managing and looking after local green spaces.
A team from Network Rail’s office in Milton Keynes recently joined BTCV on an Employee Action Day – an opportunity for Network Rail staff to have a go at some practical conservation activities in the local community.
Working at the Hanson Environment Centre, the team took part in a variety of activities such as building an insect hotel from pallets and burying logs to provide new habitats for invertebrates, frogs, hedgehogs and other wildlife.
Janet Ford, Senior Corporate Partnership Manager for BTCV said: “Network Rail and their employees are making a vital contribution by choosing to support practical environmental projects in the Milton Keynes area. Employee Action Days are an excellent way for business teams to come together outside of the usual work environment, whilst also putting something back into the community where they are based.”
To find out more about BTCV’s Employee Action Days click here
BTCV Gets CHAS (not DAVE) Approved!
Monday, 9 August 2010
It’s awards aplenty at BTCV right now! Hot on the heels of our Charity of the Year nomination and Investors in People award, BTCV has now been granted approval under the Contractor Health and Safety Assurance Scheme.
Being part of the CHAS register means BTCV has successfully had its national safety standards assessed and is now on a UK wide list of trustworthy contractors.
The CHAS register is being used more and more by local authorities and other customers of BTCV who want proof of their contractors’ health and safety credentials.
Students at BTCV Hollybush in Leeds have marked a year of hard work with a fun filled "Pirates and the Caribbean" themed party.
22 students received their certificates after successfully completing their 2 OCN certificates in gardening plus NOCN in both literacy and numeracy. Another 13 students completed either the Level 1 Diploma in Environmental Conservation or the Level 2 NVQ in Environmental Conservation.
Awards were also made to several long serving Voluntary Officers for their commitment to Hollybush.
Well over 100 volunteers, students, friends and parents were entertained by a disco by one of the volunteers, a treasure hunt in the grounds and a local steel band, bringing a taste of the Caribbean to the main courtyard.
Although this marked the final year of Castle College, Nottingham, funding the courses at Hollybush, the long term partnership with BTCV is continuing and expanding in the Nottinghamshire area.
Castle College, and its predecessor Broxtowe College, have been key BTCV partners for well over a decade.
Volunteers from a local BTCV office have joined forces with historians, builders and film-makers to create a new Channel 4 documentary.
A film crew is following six builders as they try to construct a Roman villa, assisted by a group of job seekers who are volunteering with BTCV.
Together they will attempt to build a Roman villa using the tools, methods and materials used in ancient Roman times.
The finished villa will then become a gift to English Heritage to be used as a visitor attraction in Wroxeter, Shropshire. Wroxeter was Roman Britain's fourth largest town.
Channel 4 will be following the whole process during these months resulting in a documentary aired in November.
BTCV volunteers have been transforming a disused patch of land into an allotment which they’ll use to learn about food growing.
The young people, supported by BTCV, have been working at Harwich Road Community allotments, in Colchester, a project run by North East Essex NHS Health Trainers.
The aim of the project is to promote a healthy life style, and as part of a Carbon Army challenge, the group turned a pile of pallets destined for the skip into raised vegetable planters.
Does your environmental or community campaign need a kick start?
If so, the Sheila McKechnie Foundation - the only registered charity in the UK dedicated to connecting, informing and supporting campaigners – may be able to help.
The charity is offering a SMK Award for people who want to take their campaign to the next level.
Over six months, SMK will devise a bespoke programme of support, tailored around your needs, to help you with your campaign.
There are eight award categories and the closing date for applications is 12pm next Monday (June 28).
All costs relating to participating in the programme are covered by SMK.
Winners will be invited to a high profile awards ceremony, receive one-to-one coaching from a highly experienced campaigner, mentoring or shadowing sessions with experts in your field, public affairs and media coaching and will take part in an intensive and inspiring residential skills-building weekend.
Where Eagles (and Natural Talent Apprentices) Dare
Monday, 21 June 2010
BTCV Natural Talent Apprentice Kieren Jones still can’t believe he’s safeguarding two sea eagle nests...and getting paid for it!
Kieren is nearing the end of his 12 month Natural Talent apprentice based on Uist, in the Outer Hebrides.
In his blog, Kieren has been describing a recent trip to ring the Britain’s largest bird of prey.
“I had an amazing trip out to my two sea eagle nests (yes they are my responsibility, how awesome is that?).
“I'm not one for heights but I soldiered on because I knew that was potentially a once in a lifetime event.
“I'm not kidding when I saw how awe inspiring it was.”
BTCV’s Natural Talent apprenticeships, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, are based either in Scotland or in Northern Ireland.
The scheme offers an amazing opportunity for people with an interest in our natural heritage to pursue a career in the environmental sector and become an expert in specialist ecological and conservation skills.
If your tomatoes and beans are brilliant but your plot design is drab, then a course running in Leeds later this summer will certainly help.
The ETN course "Setting up an allotment project" runs on August 3 and will equip any budding veg grower with vital information needed to get started.
The course is perfect for people working with schools, promoting healthy eating, or providing training or just casual veg growers looking to improve their plot.
Those attending will learn legal and other essential information, health and safety and risk assessments related to allotments, and how to choose the right plot and design.
Successful gardening is all in the planning and this course will also look at grants and fundraising, and is packed with ideas on how to help your allotment flourish, come rain or shine.
Volunteers taking practical action against climate change have been thanked by the Minister for Civil Society, Nick Hurd.
Mr Hurd, who in his ministerial role is responsible for volunteering, met members of BTCV’s Carbon Army at an event in Westminster.
“I’d like to say thank you to everyone who gives their time for the benefit of our community,” said Mr Hurd.
“Volunteering is a good way of getting involved and making a difference in local communities. The work of volunteers often goes unnoticed.
“We have entered a new era of people power at the centre of the new Government and volunteering is a key part of this. Big Society is all about empowering local people and communities to bring about the changes they know their community needs.”
Pictured are David Coleman, BTCV Ambassador; Sean Canavan, volunteer, Nick Hurd, and Chris Speirs, BTCV project officer
Mud Pie Anyone ?
Wednesday, 16 June 2010
Carbon Army volunteers at BTCV Skelton Grange enjoyed growing their own food so much they decided to make a special oven to cook it in.
The oven has been made using a material called cob which is a mixture of clay, sand and straw.
Cob is an ancient building material that has been used for centuries but has fallen out of favour.
Although it’s a great low carbon building material, cob is labour intensive and involves stamping on wet clay and straw until it makes a soft mud pie texture
"Building the oven from cob is all part of our work to reduce the impact that we have on the environment. We dug the clay from our site, used straw from a local farm, and the bricks that we used were waste from a building site," explained volunteer officer Jennifer Rose.
The oven will be heated up by burning wood grown on the grounds at Skelton Grange making the oven carbon neutral.
BTCV’s Carbon Army will light the oven at an open day on September 11 and celebrate with pizza.
BTCV steps in to help charity's food growing zone
Monday, 14 June 2010
Children in Cumbria are learning where their food comes from thanks to BTCV volunteers.
BTCV’s and fellow charity Heron Corn Mill in Beetham have teamed up to promote food growing.
The Corn Mill is in the final stages of installing a hydroelectric turbine, which will enable it to go off-grid and supply green energy to local business.
But following building work to install the turbine, the mill’s grounds were devastated by heavy machinery.
BTCV volunteers have since helped open up the site to young visitors by installing new footpaths, fences, hedges, raised beds, and bridges.
This not only covers up construction scars with a beautiful new landscape, but also promotes biodiversity and wildlife and creates an outdoor community space for festivals and events.
Local children will be invited to the mill, to garden in the raised beds and learn about sustainable local food.
Four ‘Boon Days’ supported by Big Lottery Fund, are taking place this summer.
For more details on how to take part ring Heron Corn Mill on 015395 64271.
Carbon Army Sign up New Recruits
Friday, 11 June 2010
BTCV’s Carbon Army signed up a platoon of new members when they visited Camden Green Fair.
Volunteers gave willow weaving demonstrations and the attraction proved a real draw for the crowd who were invited to give it a go.
The trellises and hurdles, prepared from coppiced willow, will be used in the food growing area of Regent’s Park where the event was held.
BTCV’s Carbon Army has been busy in the large central London park for a number of months.
As well as preparing a food growing area, volunteers have also been working alongide Regent's Canal, coppicing and clearing vegetation to open up sections of the bank.
This will provide a range of habitats and improve biodiversity.
BTCV’s Carbon Army was praised by politicians, including the Minister of State for the Department of Energy and Climate Change, Charles Hendry, at a prestigious event in Westminster.
Members of BTCV’s Carbon Army were invited to the event which celebrated volunteering and our gang received a warm welcome from senior politicians.
New volunteer Sean Canavan, a blind gardener who has turned to food growing with support of BTCV staff and volunteers, was among those present.
Also pictured is BTCV Camden project leader Chris Speirs meeting Minister for State Charles Hendry.
Nick Hurd, Minister for Civil Society, and over 50 MPs joined Mr Hendry to say ‘thank you’ to the millions of volunteers across the UK.
The celebration was part of the national Volunteers’ Week which co-incided with BTCV’s Carbon Army Campaign.
BTCV is working hard to preserve traditional skills and is delighted to announce a significant cash boost from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Heritage Lottery Fund has pledged in the region of £520,000 to help BTCV deliver 24 apprenticeships in Scotland and Northern Ireland (CVNI) over the next three years.
The apprenticeships will run in Scotland and Northern Ireland and are part of the Lottery’s new Skills for the Future awards.
Skills for the Future is an ambitious £17m programme which provides new training opportunities for people across the UK seeking a career in heritage and conservation.
“It’s essential we protect our traditional skills,” explained BTCV Scotland Director Russell Hampton.
“BTCV has an excellent track record of nurturing and developing young talent."
Through BTCV’s Natural Talent scheme, which already runs in Scotland and Northern Ireland and is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, we’ve delivered dozens of apprenticeships with more in the pipeline.”
BTCV’s Carbon Army turned out in force to show just how easy it is to grow food and take a stand against climate change.
Dozens of volunteers pulled on Carbon Army t-shirts as they got to work in the flourishing kitchen garden at BTCV in Mickle Trafford, Cheshire.
Volunteers are enjoying their second summer in the garden and are looking forward to a bumper crop of potatoes, peas, beans, courgettes, garlic and chard to name a few.
Chief Executive Tom Flood CBE visited the project and congratulated volunteers on transforming the growing site.
BTCV Project Supervisor James Kendall added: “This food growing project is open to anyone. It’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, learn new skills, make new friends and enjoy some really healthy home grown food.”
Carbon Army Swings Into Action with Inspirational Sean
Wednesday, 2 June 2010
BTCV Carbon Army volunteer Sean Canavan proves you don’t need space, money or even sight to transform a community.
Sean, who is blind, has transformed his London community by planting hundreds of flowers, hanging baskets and containers.
Today, Sean’s BTCV Carbon Army pals – and Chief Executive Tom Flood CBE - will help transform his flower boxes into food growing zones.
BTCV’s Carbon Army campaign aims to encourage people to grow their own fruit and vegetables and consider their shopping habits and their effect on the environment.
Sean, a former carpenter who volunteers in Camden, added: I’m keen to find out what else I can grow.
“I lost my sight after getting meningitis and although I can’t see, gardening has been the very best therapy.
“I imagine what the plants look like and I feel to see when they need watering. My neighbours’ pleasure comes from seeing the flowers and plants but mine comes from giving something back to my community and improving the environment at the same time.”
Join BTCV’s Carbon Army and take action against climate change. You could volunteer at a local project or help BTCV raise funds to maintain its climate change work.
Throughout June, BTCV is holding 120 free food growing events around the UK.
Today BTCV is launching the second phase of its exciting Carbon Army campaign.
We’re rolling up our sleeves and digging in for climate change again - this time as we plant food across the UK.
There are lots of different ways to get started and BTCV has some great food growing projects to look up if you don’t have a garden or don’t want the
responsibility of your own patch.
TV designer Linda Barker, a keen veg grower, helps launch BTCV’s new Carbon Army campaign today in London with Chief Executive Tom Flood CBE.
Don’t forget to send in your photos, videos and news. Together we CAN take a stand against climate change. Together we CAN make a difference.
Ponds Joy for BTCV Kent
Wednesday, 26 May 2010
New ponds will be created in an area of outstanding natural beauty thanks to work by BTCV.
BTCV in Kent will manage the scheme on the North Downs following a successful funding bid to the European Regional Development Fund.
The EU will fund 50 per cent of the cost of creating wildlife ponds on Kent Downs, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Across the UK, thousands of ponds disappear each year due to pollution, development and neglect.
BTCV is working to re-instate ponds and re-create new habitats to aid biodiversity.
Great local authority relationship bears fruit
Monday, 24 May 2010
BTCV has teamed up with Essex County Council to help build or re-establish 50 community orchards.
The initiative will see 50 new or re-established community orchards across Essex, as well as five demonstrator sites at country parks and partner sites in the county.
The exciting new project aims to train around 500 community volunteers in allotment and orchard tending and support 50 communities in helping to promote healthy eating, through raising the profile of fresh fruit and vegetables.
Ben Hammond, BTCVÂ’s area manager for East of England (South) said: "This is a very exciting project.
"Not only will volunteers help build new orchards across Essex, they will also help re-invigorate old orchards thereby reviving a crucial part of our region's heritage."
Power Station Project Shortlisted for Observer award
Wednesday, 19 May 2010
An unusual art project brought to life by BTCV volunteers has been shortlisted for the Observer Ethical Awards Conservation Award.
In the first three months of the year BTCV volunteers re-surfaced pathways, constructed steps and benches, planted a species-rich hedgerow and removed litter, bracken and buddleia to transform the derelict site of the old Blackburn Meadows Power Station adjacent to the M1 in Sheffield.
The site is encircled by a three-mile stretch of public pathway, and thanks to BTCV, is now home to the Echoes of Blackburn Meadows (EBM) soundwalk.
EBM is comprised of series of solar-powered transmitters, broadcasting sounds and spoken memories of the former power station via an FM frequency.
The blisters have just about healed and it's time to say huge congratulations to all our runners in the Belfast City Marathon.
Three teams of runners from Belfast, Bangor and Derry took to the streets to raise funds for CVNI.
The Belfast team, named the "Green Goddesses" consisted of; Lindsay McManamon, Maria Smylie, Dianne Keys, Amanda Peters and John McCully.
The Bangor team of staff and trainees from the Training for Success Programme in Clandeboye was made up by Ross Taylor, Robert Donnelly, Bertie Fisher, Karl Hull and Sean Fowler. They were named the "Horticultural Hunks".
Ivan Black and three volunteers Hilary Nsabimana, Patrick Donnelly and Danelle Sweeny all walked together and completed the nine mile walk of the marathon.
"It was really tough going as I had never done anything like this before, but now I can'’t wait to run it again next year," explained Amanda Peters.
Welsh Assembly Environment Minister Jane Davidson has helped transform a footpath at BTCV’s Cardiff base.
Mrs Davidson undertook a stint of volunteering work with BTCV volunteers, one of Wales’ teenage Climate Change Champions and BTCV Chairman Rupert Evenett.
Last year Mrs Davidson backed BTCV’s Carbon Army climate change campaign and pledged to volunteer on a local project.
Yesterday she visited BTCV’s Cymru’s Cardiff base at Forest Farm nature reserve, Whitchurch, Cardiff, and helped construct a footpath to improve access for visitors.
BTCV Cymru Director Ioan Jenkins said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister and our young Climate Change Champion and we’re delighted they took the time.
“As they discovered, joining BTCV’s Carbon Army is frontline action on climate change and directly enables people to make a difference.”
TEENAGER Dylan Campbell has won a Young Scot 2010 Award for his outstanding contribution to conservation,
Dylan, aged 14, of Kilmarnock, won the Environment Award for his conservation and volunteer work through his involvement with BTCV Scotland.
The awards were organised by the Daily Record.
Dyland has helped build community gardens in Crosshill, learned how to build raised beds and dry stone walls and even worked on a 103 mile hilltop path network, the Carrick Way, in Ayrshire.
Well done Dylan.
Kitchen Garden Open Day
Friday, 7 May 2010
Volunteers in Chester will welcome visitors to an open day next month at Mickle Trafford Water Mill.
During Sunday June 13, volunteers will work in the water mill’s community kitchen garden. Falconry displays will take place nearby and local farms will throw open their gates and fields.
The event has been organised by LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) and the aim is to allow the public to see where their local food is produced.
The British Wildlife Photography Awards are still open for entries and organisers have appealed to BTCV staff and volunteers to get snapping.
With just over three weeks left before submission deadlines (June 4th 2010), now is the time to venture out into the British wilderness and capture some great images.
To reflect that 2010 has been declared International Year of Biodiversity by the United Nations, the competition includes a special award for conservation photography and a new category dedicated to British biodiversity and native species under threat.
VOLUNTEER Neil Woodcock has chalked up an incredible 200 hours with BTCV.
Neil is a volunteer communication officer at BTCV’s headquarters in Doncaster.
He joined BTCV in 2006 and has since completed a NVQ Level 2 in Environmental Conservation. He’s also taken part in a fascinating eight week conservation trip to Nevada, USA.
“I really enjoy volunteering with BTCV. I particularly like the working environment – that’s the people, the job and the offices, Sedum House, on the edge of the nature reserve.”
Neil, 41, from Rotherham is pictured with his certificate.
Exercise your demons
Tuesday, 4 May 2010
GP AND FINANCIAL TIMES columnist Margaret McCartney recommends BTCV Green Gym as a boost to wellbeing in an article about the relationship between exercise and depression.
"An exercise regime of about 45 minutes to 1 hour, two to three times a week, has a beneficial effect on mild to moderately depressed mood, to the extent that it could be considered a good alternative to antidepressants," she says.
“Finding a rain jacket could be first step towards an excellent treatment for depression.”
Tomorrow sees the launch of the Tree Council’s Walk in the Woods festival...a month long event to encourage everyone to enjoy trees and woods in spring.
Walks, talks and other events will take place throughout May.
Walk in the Woods month is a great time to organise an event and get new people interested in trees - especially in their local patch. A particular aim of Walk in the Woods is to attract people who rarely, if ever, visit woods - even those on their doorstep.
On Sunday May 9 from 10am - 5pm BTCV Cheshire is holding an open day to celebrate our woodlands. The free event, at Norley Rural Skills Centre, Norley, Cheshire, will include craft demonstrations and workshops, Forest School sessions and kids’ activities.
It’s taken 25 years to plan and build but kids from Stonehaven near Aberdeen now have a great new skateboard park .
BTCV volunteers have been putting the finishing touches to the long-awaited park this month.
Yvonne Stephen, BTCV’s local Green Gym co-ordinator , said: “We’ve had a great time working with the local community.”
Peterborough cleans up
Wednesday, 28 April 2010
HARD working volunteers in Peterborough are helping the town as it strives to become the UK’s environmental capital.
The town’s council for voluntary services is backing a scheme by Keep Britain Tidy and BTCV is also lending its support to clean up - and green up - Peterborough.
Throughout May volunteers will be picking litter across the town. A similar project last month saw BTCV volunteers collect 27 bags of litter in two hours.
“This really shows how a few people coming together for a few hours can make a huge difference to the local area,” said Michael Charles, BTCV’s local project officer.
VOLUNTEERING is a walk in the park...
Tuesday, 27 April 2010
...for unemployed people in Bridgend, Wales.
A community park in the South Wales fomer mining town is now benefiting from a facelift, thanks to a new BTCV-led initiative that matches unemployed people with environmental projects.
The park, a former quarry, had been vandalised but is now being regenerated by volunteers on the BTCV Family Employment Initiative.
A 15-strong group is building new footpaths and improving access by clearing litter and dangerous trees.
The Family Employment Initiative is a European-funded £3m programme that matches families to community environmental projects, giving them the chance to gain vital confidence and motivational skills in preparation for employment.
Did you know there are plenty of ways to support BTCV’s Carbon Army?
As a charity BTCV needs funds to continue its work.
Just £20 could help volunteers rejuvenate a local woodland by planting saplings fitted with special protective guards, so they can withstand all weathers and have the best chance of maturing into magnificent trees.
A donation of £30 could teach new volunteers how to stabilise sand dunes and strenthen our coast's natural defences against erosion by the sea.
A gift of £40 could enable a team of volunteers to clear dogwood from chalkland areas to give juniper and rare flowers the chance to thrive, bringing colour and life back to the landscape.
If you don’t grow your own then you may find your asparagus, for example, has travelled from as far as Peru or Asia.
Not all asparagus travels half way round the world however and today is the start of the UK’s asparagus harvest season.
So for the next few weeks Buy British or better still...grow your own. It might take a while to produce a crop but the average crown lives for 15 years and you’ll be harvesting asparagus for many summers to come.
It’s tricky getting the smaller members of your household interested in growing fruit and veg if they can’t get involved in one the fun bits – digging about in the dirt!
It would be hard to get the most out of a spade or garden fork if was half a metre taller than you, so imagine what it’s like for the kids!
Fortunately, the BTCV comes to the rescue with a range of pint-sized tools.
Scotland gains another notch in it's Green Gym belt...
Wednesday, 21 April 2010
...which will hopefully result in smaller belts for local people!
The new Cowal Green Gym will undergo a 10 week trial in green spaces around Dunoon and the wider Cowal area.
The first practical session is on Monday May 10 but volunteers who are interested in joining can drop in for a coffee and a chat to the Argyll Voluntary Action office in Dunoon on Thursday April 29 between 1.00 – 3.00pm.
The new venture has the backing of Councillor Neil Mackay, Argyll and Bute’s spokesperson for Arts, Culture, Leisure and Sport who said “Community conservation work not only creates healthy environments, it also improves the health and well being of those involved.
“The Green Gyms run along at the pace of the members and are fun, sociable and practical. They provide a great alternative to the conventional gym or sports centre for anyone who has an interest in the outdoors and in doing some exercise, and people can join in for as little as an hour – or more if they wish – on a weekly basis.”
Interested in taking part or in finding out more? Get in touch with Heidi Quinn, Green Gym Co-ordinator on 0141 552 5294 or Michaela Goan at Argyll Voluntary Action on 01369 700100.
Full details of BTCV Scotland Green Gyms can be found at www.btcv.org/greengym
Volunteers lay hedge to stretch 4 olympic swimming pools
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
BTCV's press office has just been sent photos of a group who certainly found a way to keep warm this winter.
They are the Somerset Midweek volunteers who laid a massive 350 metres of hedge throughout the season.
Hedge laying is a traditional skill which has seen a come back in recent years thanks to organisations like BTCV. It's a popular and rewarding choice for volunteers on both local projects, holidays and training courses.
Modern hedge-cutting machines create gaps in a hedge which can prevent it from doing it's job as a barrier between fields and as a weather-shield for livestock.
Hedges laid by hand look fantastic and more importantly they become part of a 'green corridor' for wildlife and a rich habitat for small birds.
Get a new view of the West Midlands as a BTCV manager
Monday, 19 April 2010
Would you like to work for the UK's leading environmental volunteering charity?
We are currently looking for someone to manage our activities in Shropshire and Staffordshire.
The role includes managing staff teams, overseeing management of budgets, planning and monitoring operational outputs and ensuring that BTCV initiatives are implemented. The job can be based from Chatterley (Stoke-on-Trent), Stafford, Wellington or Home.
Full details about the post are available on our jobs page. Click here
Hounslow Heath receives TLC from local teenagers and workers
Friday, 16 April 2010
Teenagers from Middlesex and employees from Sky in Isleworth teamed up to transform Hounslow Heath Nature Reserve.
BTCV provided equipment and led the group in a scrub management task to revive lowland heath and grassland habitats.
30 students from four schools joined the Sky staff for a days work. Spades and saws in hand the students quizzed their team mates over their roles in the media industry whilst carrying out vital work to manage the nature reserve.
BTCV provides opportunities for business teams to participate in Employee Action Days at a range of sites across the UK so employees can discover new conservation and leadership skills, improve morale and make a positive impact on the local community.
Students from Lampton School said: “It feels good to help the environment” and “You can actually see what a difference we have made.”
If your school is interested in inspiring pupils by working with BTCV and Sky on projects such as wildlife gardens, food growing or other environmental projects then contact Sonia Bruce.
Explore the wilds of Glenlivet
Thursday, 15 April 2010
From May 8-15 2010 BTCV is offering a seven night break in Scotland on the marvellous Glenlivet Estate in Banffshire.
With a variety of rewarding projects, ranging from stile building to footpath construction you will get the opportunity to work on different locations around the fantastic scenery of Glenlivet.
You will be staying in Kirkmicheal in a cosy little hall nestled above the River Avon. Accommodation is simple and carrymats and airbeds will be provided. Or if you fancy sleeping under the stars then you’re welcome to bring your own tent.
There are many things to see and do in your leisure time such as beautiful walks in the area not to mention wonderful opportunities to fish out at Rothiemurchis.
The magnificent and breath taking landscape of the Scottish countryside is not to be missed out on and at only £90.00 per person this week long break is sure to sell out fast.
For more information or to book then please call us at 01302 388888 or visit the
BTCV Shop.
It's a result for voles
Wednesday, 14 April 2010
A rare water vole was spotted by BTCV volunteers on a recent coppicing task at Cowslip Meadow, Luton.
This specimen is clearly enjoying the results and stayed around long enough for the team to see and photograph it.
Water voles are in decline across the country due to habitat fragmentation and predation from mink. Urban green spaces with streams, rivers and ponds are now one of their strongholds.
BTCV remembers Aitken Clark
Tuesday, 13 April 2010
BTCV Vice President and renowned environmental expert Aitken Clark has died aged 74.
In his position as Vice President, Aitken was able to draw on the unique position of BTCV - as a provider of organised volunteering opportunities with clear benefits to health and the environment - and share these ideas with experts in Europe and the rest of the world.
Particularly in his work with EUROPARC and LivingLakes, Aitken’s message to others often resulted in an influx of telephone calls to BTCV’s International department from people wanting to re-create the BTCV experience in their own communities.
Aitken Clark was the first head of the Broads Authority and was credited with restoring water quality and wildlife habitats. You can read about more of Aitken’s achievements in this article.
Aitken is fondly remembered by staff and volunteers throughout BTCV who have commented on his warmth, wisdom and loyalty to the organisation.
First the gold, then the rainbow
Monday, 12 April 2010
On completion of an extensive hedging project, BTCV Bedfordshire volunteers were rewarded with a spectacular rainbow.
True to the legend (albeit backwards) they had already received a pot of gold in the shape a £6,300 grant to survey, coppice and replant the 430 metres of ancient and species rich hedgerow at Rectory Wood, Cranfield.
The grant was awarded by GrantScape to enhance biodiversity in Bedfordshire on land owned by The Forest of Marston Vale.
The Forest of Marston Vale project is using trees and woodlands to transform 61 square miles between Bedford and Milton Keynes to repair a landscape scarred by decades of clay extraction, brick making and landfill.
Around 1 million trees have already been planted with plans to plant 5 million more by 2030.
Recycle a bicycle
Friday, 9 April 2010
With longer days and milder weather, at this time of year many people get the urge to dust down their bicylces and get pedalling. So BTCV's new bike renovation project couldn't come at a better time.
The free three-day course vCycle will be held at Wootton Bassett Fire Station in Wiltshire on the 13th-15th April from 10.30am-3.00pm.
Volunteers will learn how to fix up unwanted and broken bicycles donated by the local police and a professional mechanic will be on hand to make sure they don’t get their spokes in a twist.
The volunteers will then have the chance to vote for which local charity the bikes should be donated to.
A perfect opportunity for anyone aged 16-25 and interested in bikes to learn new skills and give something back to the local community, if you are interested in taking part contact Laura on 07917 460489 or email for a booking form and information pack.
Edinburgh Ecofusion
Thursday, 8 April 2010
This Sunday BTCV Scotland will be at Ecofusion, a unique multi-cultural celebration of the environment and enjoying the outdoors.
From 11am to 4pm, Ecofusion will take place in colourful Indian marquees at Holyrood Park Education Centre, Edinburgh.
Ecofusion is all about encouraging more people - particularly from minority groups - to access the outdoors and to engage with their environment and enjoy nature.
From conservation volunteering to mountain biking and Japanese crafts to Chai tea sampling, you'd struggle to come away from this event without trying something new!
The event is organised by BTCV and Forum for Environmental Volunteering Activity (FEVA)
Have a healthy day out with BTCV for World Health day
Wednesday, 7 April 2010
Research shows that walking 10,000 steps a day will significantly improve your health*, so why not discover your neck of the woods on a BTCV Health Walk?
Environmental charity BTCV is calling on the next government to work to tackle physical inactivity, support the BTCV Carbon Army and invest in nationwide ‘ grass roots’ regeneration.
Unemployment, a looming health crisis and environmental threat from climate change are shared government and BTCV priorities.
Reductions in public spending will undoubtedly limit the role of public institutions and partnerships with the Third Sector are therefore critical.
Chief Executive Tom Flood CBE explained: “Our manifesto offers practical solutions that are feasible and affordable.
“These are based on 50 years experience in supporting community action for better environments and quality of life.”
BTCV’s claims are underpinned by an extensive body of evidence in our position papers. BTCV’s manifesto and position papers can be
downloaded here
Happy Easter from BTCV!
Thursday, 1 April 2010
BTCV is all about welcoming in the Spring, getting outside and doing some good for yourself and for the environment.
Over the Easter break BTCV Haringey is hosting nature hunts and arts and crafts activities for families. With events running between 2-4pm on 7, 8, 14, 15 and 16 April just pick your day and join in.
Contact Michael on 020 8348 6005 for full details
Thetford Green Gym are getting the ground ship shape ready for new veg growing plots on 8 April.
Contact Jane on 01842 757349
In Ayr they are also getting their fingers green planting a new kitchen garden at a local church, also on 8 April.
Contact Katie on 01292 525718 or click here
The people of Twerton, Bath, were invited to join conservation charity BTCV in celebration this month.
A group of 30 young BTCV volunteers received funding from GreenPrints to regenerate Carr’s Woodland for the local community.
The cash enabled young people from the Avon area to learn green skills such as fence building, tree planting and bird and bat box construction. As a result the prospects for local wildlife have had a boost and local people have a haven on the doorstep.
“This project has given young people new skills such as fencing which has increased their confidence and employability. We’ve also provided new habitats for wildlife and helped in the fight against climate change,” said Alex Forster, BTCV.
The fun day marked the final day of the project where volunteers and locals tried Bushcraft, woodcarving and tree identification.
BTCV Job Recruits Spring Clean Reserve
Tuesday, 30 March 2010
YOUNG people employed with BTCV through the Future Jobs Fund have been spring cleaning a nature reserve.
The Brickfield Pond in Rhyl, north Wales, has undergone a make-over and during the conservation work, the youngsters have been learning new skills.
The recruits have been hedge cutting and trimming, clearing scrub, restoring fishing pegs and hedge-laying.
"I know lots of people have commented favourably on the work that has been carried out," said Chris Ruane MP for Vale of Clwyd.
Read more about the Rhyl conservation work in this article in the
Liverpool Daily Post
Echoes of Blackburn Meadows turns up the volume
Monday, 29 March 2010
Lately we've been bringing you regular updates on the Echoes of Blackburn Meadows project in Sheffield...
On Friday afternoon all the hard work by the BTCV GreenPrints volunteers was showcased to local press and special guests, including David Blunkett MP.
The project is at the site of the now demolished Blackburn Meadows power station and makes audible the spoken memories of former workers of the power station, witnesses to its changing landscapes and oral testimonies from those whose lives were transformed by the advent of electricity.
Improvements to the landscape, including work on footpaths and hedgerows, were made by a dedicated team of 16-25 year old volunteers with the help and guidance of BTCV Project Officer, John Thompson.
The audio is delivered through headphones and any FM radio receiver.
BTCV is urging everybody to take part in Earth Hour 2010.
Last year hundreds of millions of people around the world showed their support by turning off their lights for one hour.
"Earth Hour 2010 will continue to be a global call to action to every individual, every business and every community. A call to stand up to show leadership and be responsible for our future."
Our team in Kent has had a great week collecting awards and commendations.
Two staff members at BTCV's Singleton Environment Centre in Ashford, Kent, were honoured at a local tourism awards evening.
Alex Davis from the centre’s Footprints café won the ‘Hospitality Employee of the Year’ award and BTCV's centre manager Daniel Jones was highly commended in the ‘Attraction Employee of the Year’ category for the high level of customer service to visitors and users.
Daniel said: “The whole team work very hard to ensure the best customer service possible for users of the centre, whatever the reason for their visit.
Visit Kent organised the awards supported by Ashford Borough Council, Ashford and Tenterden Tourism Association and KMfm
The Singleton Environmental Centre also made it through to the finals of the Kent Design Awards this week..
The centre was a finalist in the Town and Village Renaissance Category but was pipped at the post.
TV presenter and gardening expert Charlie Dimmock has been enjoying a work out with Woodstock and Chipping Norton Green Gym in Oxfordshire today.
Charlie, a keen BTCV supporter, visited the Green Gym to urge people to get their hands dirty and offer their time to help local conservation projects.
The visit was organised by Defra’s Muck In4Life campaign which aims to get families and individuals involved in conservation volunteering work to help them lead a healthier lifestyle and protect the environment.
Last year Charlie helped BTCV kick start its Carbon Army climate change campaign and also presented our Green Heroes awards.
New BSA Project Revs Up
Tuesday, 23 March 2010
The former BSA site in Birmingham is being transformed by BTCV.
Once the 25 acre site was home to the world famous Birmingham Small Arms company (BSA) which manufactured motorcycles, firearms and ammunition.
Now the site is being transformed into an eco friendly nature reserve and BTCV is appealing for volunteers to help.
The woodland, situated within in the Ackers Trust site in Sparkhill, is being turned into a green belt area. The green space will eventually improve air quality, give local people the opportunity to access recreational opportunities and will create habitats for exotic plants and wildlife.
Stefan Lewandowski, Senior Project Officer for BTCV, said: ‘The site has been neglected for some time now and there are a range of conservation jobs that need to be put in place so that we can continue to change the area and improve the surrounding environment.”
The opportunity to volunteer is open to all ages and all volunteers will be trained on-site .
For more information email Stefan
Junior Rangers are the future for green spaces
Monday, 22 March 2010
There are lots of opportunities at BTCV for young people to explore the countryside as young rangers, so we support the excellent EUROPARC Federation's annual Junior Ranger Camp.
"Registration for EUROPARC’s International Junior Ranger Camp 2010 is now open. The Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) (UK) will host the 9th annual camp from the 24th to the 31st of July 2010. Around 40 Junior Rangers and their mentors from countries across Europe will enjoy a fun-packed programme exploring the AONB.
"Young people are at the heart of the local communities living in and around protected areas and future advocates, guardians and potential employees of these areas. The Junior Ranger scheme provides them with opportunities to participate in the work of protected areas, which, in turn, are able to fulfill their educational role whilst teaching participants about their functions, values and benefits."
Tomorrow is the first day of Spring...so what better time to get out and about with BTCV?
We’ve got activities taking place across the UK tomorrow.
Why not celebrate Spring’s arrival with Belfast Green Gym. Volunteers will meet tomorrow for seasonal tasks. Call Mary Hamilton on 028 9064 5169 for details.
Elsewhere BTCV’s Carbon Army wil be planting trees in Camden, London, tomorrow as part of a community orchards project. They’ll be planting fruit trees and bushes to help the local community discover the joys of growing their own.
Call Chris Speirs on 0207 278 4294 to find out more.
Minister praises volunteers for big chill community spirit
Thursday, 18 March 2010
Local government minister Barbara Follett thanked 40 local heroes at an awards ceremony in London, where she praised them for their hard work and commitment to helping their neighbours.
"Volunteering doesn't just mean getting involved in big, organized events - it can mean just looking out for your neighbour. I hope more people are inspired to help their local community and are encouraged to start volunteering on a regular basis. The Government is working with local councils to ensure people have all the information they need to get involved in volunteering."
BTCV Norfolk volunteers David Smith and Robin Sidle, were among those awarded for attending tasks on some of the coldest days and worked really hard to improve public access by cutting back hawthorn hedges and invasive gorse.
Premier League presenter tackles rundown Walled Garden
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
SKY Sports Scottish Premier League presenter Jim White got his hands dirty at the Howden Walled Garden in Livingston this week to help Sky employees restore the 16th century attraction to its former glory.
It was one of six community projects that will be open to 2500 Sky staff across Scotland over the next 18 months.
Climate change is a global problem which can all too often leave individuals feeling powerless but with 50 years working in the heart of communities, BTCV know that when people feel engaged and empowered, anything is possible.
Whether it's helping a group of volunteers plant vegetables and fruit in a communal garden in an inner-city area, reducing food miles and CO2, improving the diet of local families and introducing them to the joys of growing their own, BTCV cannot do these things without your support.
From April 30 to May 7 2010, the conservation charity is running a seven night break to Polgooth, Cornwall.
You’ll be working on a conservation project to restore a footpath in a stunning wooded valley.
Spring is a beautiful time in Cornwall with country lanes abundant with colourful wild flowers and National Trust and other large gardens are at their best with magnificent magnolias, rhododendrons and camellias.
The nearby 'Lost Gardens of Heligan' with its sub tropical valley gardens and The Eden Project with its gigantic biomes offer a fascinating insight into the world of plant life.
There are numerous hidden coves and unspoilt beaches to discover on both north and south Cornish coasts with beautiful sandy beaches just a few minutes away. In addition there are outstanding stretches of coastal paths and interesting inland areas of beauty and heritage to explore.
visit our shop
or call 01302 388888 or email information@btcv.org.uk
Have you seen the Grizzled Skipper?
Friday, 12 March 2010
BTCV volunteers in Cornwall have been working hard to conserve a rare type of butterfly.
The Grizzled Skipper, once common across Cornwall and now limited to just two sites, is significantly under threat.
Now BTCV has teamed up with Network Rail, Butterfly Conservation and Natural England to provide habitat.
Grizzled Skippers love strawberries (who doesn’t?) so teams of volunteers have been clearing scrubland to allow wild strawberries to grow.
Here's a quick update from the young volunteers on the Blackburn Meadows project in Sheffield.
"We made rapid progress on the first day of work on the Echoes of Blackburn Meadows GreenPrints Flagship Project.
"The task today was to plant a species-rich hedgerow against the boundary fence between the path and a very busy railway. The hedge will encourage wildlife and in a few years time will be a perfect screen to help filter out the noise from passing trains.
"We each picked a section, set about clearing the weeds and then dug a trench to make way for the whips. The whips were planted as soon as we could to stop them drying out. The roots were sunk deep into the ground, the soil replaced and a generous helping of compost was compacted around to give them a healthy boost in their new home! When the hedge is thick and full in about ten year’s time, hopefully it will be laid by future BTCV volunteers.
"It's amazing how much you can get done in just a few hours. Next up, the wetlands scrape and step refurbishment and, hopefully, some more recruits to help us along the way!"
THIS Sunday is Mother’s Day but if you fancy planting flowers instead of buying them then BTCV can help!
Your favourite environmental charity is holding a Green Gym at Chesham Woods in north Manchester this Sunday and volunteers will be planting wildflowers.
Mums, sons and daughters welcome from 1.30pm at Swallow Drive, Bury.
For more information contact BTCV’s Hannah Morris on 0161 796 6404 or email Hannah Morris.
Get a spring in your step this Spring with BTCV. For a full list of our tasks this Sunday and during Spring visit BTCV’s website
Go wild in Eastern Europe
Tuesday, 9 March 2010
BTCV has two fantastic international volunteer placements on offer.
Leonardo Project, Bulgaria: 24th April - 8th May 2010
This is a fantastic opportunity to join one of BTCV's most dynamic European partners piloting a new joint project - a small-group practical project in the remote Sakar Mountain region near the Bulgarian-Turkish-Greek border. Two weeks working as a team with staff and volunteers of Bulgarian partner organisation Green Balkans on a habitat management project targeting selected threatened species.
EVS funded Estonian Conservation Project Leader position: 1st July - 30th September 2010
BTCV has worked for over 10 years with the Eestimaa Looduse Fond (ELF) - the Estonian Fund for Nature - on the development of a range of volunteer opportunities.
This year we have developed a unique placement opportunity to support ELF's growing international volunteer programme. We're looking for a BTCV project leader to join ELF's project leading team to work on the setting up and co-leading of international conservation holidays in Estonia.
This is a volunteer position, but all travel, accommodation, food, insurance, personal support, emergency back-up and training costs and even a living allowance are provided.
Community Channel have been broadcasting a film made by BTCV volunteer Deanna Allison this weekend as part of their programme to promote films made by and about women, for today’s International Women’s Day.
Deanna told us “I'm very pleased to know that "A Green Day Out" will reach a nationwide audience - and it's fantastic that people all over the UK will get a chance to see what a great job BTCV's enthusiastic volunteers do. I hope it will encourage more people to get outside, get fit and do something for the community all at the same time!”
You can watch the Community Channel on Sky 539 • Virgin TV 233 • Freeview 87
BTCV’s Carbon Army has been applauded at a top environmental awards ceremony
Friday, 5 March 2010
Our climate change campaign was shortlisted for the Climate Change award at the Yorkshire Post Environmental Awards in Leeds.
We were up against tough opposition in the form of United Bank of Carbon and Groundwork but judges were impressed with BTCV’s practical climate change campaign.
John Whitehouse, head of promotions at BTCV, said: “Carbon Army is all about encouraging frontline action on climate change.
“The campaign got off to a flying start late last year and it’s excellent news the efforts of BTCV staff and volunteers have been recognised.
“BTCV’s Carbon Army will be busy throughout the year and if you haven’t signed up already then please do so now.”
A holy footpath spruced up by BTCV and probationers in Essex is to be blessed by The Ven. David Lowman, Archdeacon of Southend.
St. Peter's Way leads the way to St. Peter’s chapel and has been used by pilgrims for 1300 years. These days the path feels the footsteps of 1000 visitors and pilgrims a month, so no wonder it was worn out!
Essex County Council’s ambitious project saw probationers working under supervision of BTCV to carry out improvements to St Peter’s coastal paths, benches, and signposting for future generations to enjoy.
St Peter’s Chapel in Bradwell-on-Sea is a place of extreme historic, cultural and environmental significance and is next to rare mudflats and saltmarsh.
Built in 654 AD by St Cedd of Lindisfarne, the chapel is considered to be the gateway to Christianity in the UK and today it plays home to the annual Bradwell pilgrimage which sees thousands of visitors arrive at St Peter’s.
The blessing ceremony to celebrate the work at St Peter’s will take place on Friday, 26 March.
The Norwich Environmental Action Team has won two prizes in the Norwich Eco-Awards, a scheme run by Norwich City Council in partnership with the Norwich Evening News.
The team won the ‘Award for Eco Commitment’ and the ‘Eco small business award’ for businesses with a competitive edge. Making environmentally friendly savings to beat the credit crunch, cutting down on waste, reducing packaging, and cutting business mileage are all among the criteria for this category.
The awards were presented by the Sheriff of Norwich Prof Tim O’Riordan, who is a keen supporter of BTCV's work and has visited Norwich Green Gym team on Mousehold Heath. He made a passionate address to the audience, praising BTCV’s commitment to people and the environment.
BTCV is working with young unemployed people in Wales to help them back into work.
The innovative new scheme has been launched as part of Rhyl Future Jobs Fund and brings together more than 30 employers, including BTCV, from across Denbighshire and Conwy.
More than 300 new jobs will be created.
BTCV Cymru is offering 25 employment opportunities in the coming 12 months. New recruits will help improve local ‘green’ sites.
Ioan Jenkins, BTCV Wales Director, commented: “BTCV Cymru is delighted to play such a significant part in this innovative exciting initiative.”
How many bags of rubbish canoe collect?
Friday, 26 February 2010
BTCV volunteers and members of Leeds Canoe Club have been working hard to clear debris and litter from a stretch of towpath and woodland in between the river and canal in the Armley area.
An incredible 85 bags of rubbish was cleared from this area in just 2 days, by 19 volunteers.
BTCV's work was funded by The Big Tidy Up with support from British Waterways and Leeds City Council at Armley Mills Museum.
BTCV’s Green Gym has been given an £18,000 tonic by development and investment company John Laing plc.
The company, which funds, delivers and manages major infrastructure developments such as hospitals, schools and road projects, has donated the cash to enable six existing community conservation groups to convert into licensed Green Gyms.
Green Gym is BTCV’s award winning programme. Green Gyms operate across the UK and groups meet at least once a week for between one and four hours’ practical conservation or gardening work.
During 2010, six community groups will transform into Green Gyms.
One group is looking forward to extending its food growing projects while another, based on a former coalfield site, will continue to work to support wildlife and increase biodiversity.
John Laing has been working in partnership with BTCV for a number of years and has witnessed first-hand the benefits that the charity has made to many peoples’ lives.
We all know BTCV excels at conservation but what about conSuRFation?
BTCV Cymru has been awarded Lottery funding to provide surf lessons in Welsh!
Young volunteers will be rewarded for conservation sessions with surf lessons by BTCV’s Guto Roberts.
Guto explained: “Surfing has been a hobby of mine for over seven years, as it’s a great way of keeping fit and to make the most of the beautiful views we have on our doorstep.”
According to Guto there is a large demand for learning to surf, but he says there is lack of Welsh speaking tutors.
“ I have been able to integrate my passion for surfing with my everyday work,” he added.
“At BTCV we now offer young people aged between 16 and 24 surf lessons for free as a reward for a morning’s worth of conservation volunteer work.
“We find it works really well, and is another way of encouraging more young people in Conwy to get in to the sport and to volunteer.”
Here at BTCV we know that access to nature leads to improved health and wellbeing.
But today we’re taking the message to health and local government professionals.
BTCV is holding a health seminar to celebrate our award winning Green Gym.
Green Gym groups meet at least once a week and do between one and four hours practical conservation or gardening work as a great alternative to a conventional gym or sports centre work outs.
The Healthy Environments Healthy Lives seminar takes place in London today and will include keynote speeches from BTCV’s Chief Executive and Dr William Bird MBE, who helped set up the Green Gym.
Volunteers whose lives have been transformed by environmental volunteering will also speak.
BTCV Estonia trip listed by Metro as top volunteering holiday
Monday, 22 February 2010
"The popularity of the volunteer holiday has peaked abroad... as tropical sun-seekers count fish in South America and nature lovers work to save orang-utans in Indonesia. Yet all too often, despite the hard graft and good intentions, such a trip can cost a fortune. If you’re keen, one of the following budget volunteer breaks may be just the ticket."
BTCV is urging companies with green aspirations to join its Carbon Army and prove their corporate responsibility pledges are more than just hot air.
We launched Carbon Army campaign last year and mobilised thousands of volunteers who transformed green spaces to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Now BTCV’s Carbon Army is looking for business recruits.
Supporting BTCV not only puts businesses at the heart of local communities, it also enables businesses and their employees to increase their social, economic and environmental impact and benefit.
Business support helps BTCV continue its work to protect green space.
BTCV provides opportunities for business teams to participate in Employee Action Days at a range of sites across the UK so employees can discover new conservation and leadership skills, improve morale and make a positive impact on the local community.
For more info about pledges, fundraising, corporate partnerships and payroll giving call 01302 388837 or visit our fundraising pages
Otters Get New Home
Thursday, 18 February 2010
Pollution, hunting and habitat loss has contributed to a huge decline in otter populations all over Europe.
But Ireland still has the densest population and volunteers are working hard to protect this beautiful mammal.
CVNI’s Biodiversity team have been building otter holts along rivers and canals around Lough Neagh.
With support from local farmers and the council, the volunteers levelled the ground, built the holt then covered it with grass to offer camouflage.
If the otter holt is a success, volunteers will build more in the hope of further helping otter population.
Grow your career with BTCV?
Wednesday, 17 February 2010
Do you fancy joining the next generation of conservationists? Or perhaps you’d like to help young people achieve their dreams.
BTCV has a number of job vacancies across the UK whereby you can make a tremendous difference to people and places.
Do you want to support students who are working towards conservation qualifications in Dorset?
You’ll recruit, train and assess students in NVQ Level 2 Environmental Conservation and lead weekly practical conservation tasks.
We’re seeking two Customer Service Officers in Doncaster to assist with UK and International holiday bookings and sales of tools, trees and protective clothing via BTCV’s catalogue and online shop.
If you fancy something a little bit different how about an apprenticeship in Grassland Funghi or Seaweed?
BTCV’s Natural Talent Apprenticeships are based in Scotland and Northern Ireland and are now recruiting.
Running out of ideas to keep kids occupied this half term? Then why not spend a few hours building bird (and bat) boxes for the garden and get them doing their bit for Nest Box Week?
BTCV Hollybush are holding their annual Bird Fun Day on Sunday 21 February.
Or contact your nearest BTCV office for a nest box making event near you.
BTCV Hollybush's work wins City Pride Award
Monday, 15 February 2010
"Here's a picture from some of the work that we carried out from Hollybush at a place by the canal called Thwaite Mill last summer" says Dougie Watson, Hollybush project officer.
"It was part of a week co-ordinated by Aire Action Leeds with Groundwork Leeds, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, Leeds City Council Museums and Leeds Ahead contributing to four days conservation work of the historic mill site.
"Our days involved volunteers from Barclays who helped fund the week doing some balsam bashing, putting up a fence, doing some habitat management and clearing new areas for regeneration.
"As a result of the week Aire Action Leeds were nominated for Leeds Community and City Pride Awards Business and Community Partnership Project of the Year and earlier this month I was lucky enough to be present in Leeds Civic Hall Banqueting Suite when Aire Action Leeds were announced as the winner."
The roots of good health
Friday, 12 February 2010
BTCV and Conservation Volunteers vice-president David Bellamy paid a visit to Derry last week to open a new sensory garden.
Dr Bellamy performed the official unveiling duties at the new garden which is based at Lakeview Hospital on the Gransha site, on the outskirts of the City.
The garden was designed and created by Conservation Volunteers in conjunction with the Western Health and Social Care Trust. It was funded by the Friends of Stradreagh.
Dr Bellamy said, “I was delighted to open the new Lakeview Hospital Sensory Garden and to see the wonderful work local volunteers have undertaken to enhance learning disability services.
“The initiative behind the sensory garden and vision to provide an enriched range of experiences for people with learning disability in a hospital setting is truly inspirational.”
Young volunteers rise to the challenge to conserve city's historic environment
Thursday, 11 February 2010
The Echoes of Blackburn Meadows (EBM) is an oral history and public arts project which uses sounds and spoken memories to explore the history of Sheffield's famed power station. As part of the project, local resident Jennifer Rich contacted BTCV with an exciting proposal.
Jennifer wanted to make some land near to one entrance of the Water Treatment Works a more attractive place for people to visit whilst also enhancing the wildlife value of the local environment.
Confident that BTCV’s Sheffield operations would be up for the task, Jennifer organised a site visit with BTCV Senior Project Officer, John Thompson, where it became clear that there was much work to do and that the team would need a big funding boost.
They applied for funding from the GreenPrints Flagship Scheme to refurbish part of the existing pathway, create a wetland scrape to increase biodiversity, install two benches, plant a hedgerow to encourage wildlife and build an information board.
Just two days before Christmas the group received news that their application had been successful and that work could begin straight away.
The next task was to appoint a Junior Management Group, who would be largely responsible for coordinating the works.
The team has since been busy sending call-outs to local community groups, colleges, universities and friends so that they can recruit up to 50 youth volunteers to help them complete the work.
If you are aged 16 to 25 and want to be a vital part of this exciting project email echoesofblackburnmeadows@googlemail.com or telephone 0114 290 1255 for more details.
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Singleton scoops two design awards
Tuesday, 9 February 2010
The Singleton Environment Centre in Ashford run by BTCV in partnership with Ashford Borough Council has scooped two more awards this week.
Buildings across the Ashford borough of all shapes and sizes were highlighted for their excellence at the Ashford Building Design & Construction Awards, held on Wednesday 27th January in the Council Chamber.
Architects of The Singleton Environment Centre, Architype, won two awards for the design of the sustainable building in Ashford. They won the The Sustainable Design category and also took top honours in the design category winning the Special Award for Innovative Design.
Camden Council have partnered with BTCV's Carbon Army in developing an ambitious project to plant Community Orchards in housing estates and sheltered housing across Camden.
The project aims to promote local interest in food growing, green housing estates and encourage community groups to develop communal gardening projects in their neighbourhood.
Eight young people who been out of work for almost a year are today looking forward to brighter futures after securing work through a new government scheme delivered by conservation charity BTCV.
In the past three months a group of jobless youngsters from York have been recruited by the UK’s leading conservation charity BTCV through the Government’s Future Jobs Fund.
Today, Yvette Cooper, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, will visit St George’s School in York to meet the new recruits and see their impressive conservation work who, under the supervision of a BTCV Project Supervisor, have been developing their skills by building a nature garden at a school in the city.
The 18 to 24-year-olds are working as Assistant Field Officers for a minimum of six months and are already learning new skills which will better equip them to continue their careers with BTCV or seek employment elsewhere.
Early risers tuning into their local BBC station in Devon last Saturday will have heard BTCV's Mel Holt talking to presenter Belinda Dixon about why a BTCV conservation holiday should be on everybody's travel wish list.
Today is World Wetlands Day and we’re marking the occasion with various activities across the UK.
World Wetlands Day marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on February 2 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar. The awareness day aims to raise public awareness of wetland values and their benefits.
We’re working on wetlands across the UK but this Saturday why not help us celebrate World Wetlands Day as our volunteers clears up the shores of the UK’s largest freshwater lake Lough Neagh near Toome, Northern Ireland?
Following the floods last year, there's plenty of fresh rubbish waiting to be cleared up before spring arrives. Gloves, plastic bags and hot tea provided. Find
more information about our Loch Neagh task.
New Natural Talent apprenticeships open
Monday, 1 February 2010
Neatly coinciding with Apprenticeship Week 2010, the Heritage Lottery Fund has provided BTCV with additional funding for 12 more Natural Talent Apprenticeships.
Having successfully delivered 20 apprenticeships over the past 3 years, with 10 still in post, this money will be used to deliver a range of apprenticeships aimed at filling the gaps in taxonomy expertise and habitat management.
The apprenticeships will be delivered in Scotland and Northern Ireland over the next two years.
So, what's on the menu this time around?
Early in 2010, there will be 8 apprenticeships up for grabs, but you'll need to be quick. The closing date for most applications is the 1st March.
They are:
Marine Macroalgae, based with SEPA in Aberdeen
Malacology, based with the National Museum Scotland, Edinburgh
Headwater Stream ecology, Clyde River Foundation, Glasgow and Buglife
Freshwater Invertebrates, Wildfowl and Wetland Trust, RSPB
Brownfield site ecology, Buglife
Grassland Fungi, National Trust Scotland, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Invasive Non Native Species, Cromarty Firth Fishery Trust
Upland ecology ( RSPB)
Full details of the current apprenticeships as well as additional information about our current apprentices, mentors, past apprentices and recruitment procedures can be found at www.btcv.org/naturaltalent.
John Mcfarlane, Environment Development Office for BTCV said “For 12 lucky individuals, this will be the beginning of a fantastic journey, but don't just take my word for it. Why not ask our apprentices? If you have a question for a specific apprentice, e-mail me j.mcfarlane@btcv.org.uk and I will forward your message onto them.”
"Neon-lit gyms and Lycra are not for everyone. Pounding up and down on a treadmill can turn many people off the idea of exercise." says Nicky Solloway of the Yorkshire Post
BTCV is heading to Japan in June to help build a nature reserve in a wildlife rich wilderness.
Volunteers holidaying with the charity will visit Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan's four islands, where they will work with Kinashbetsu Wetland Trust to create a demonstration nature reserve.
Hokkaido represents about 20 per cent of the land area of Japan but is relatively sparsely populated with only five per cent of the population.
The area contains virgin forest, sand dunes, alpine plant areas, wetlands and farmland. The area is close to the most important wetland site in Japan and home to as many as 83 rare species of birds including Japanese crane, white tailed sea eagle, grey heron and Japanese snipe.
During the holiday from June 4th to 19th, participants will construct a bridge over a pond and a boardwalk around it. The aim is to encourage local people to use the reserve.
The trip also serves to build local and regional interest in volunteering. Having an international group working alongside locals encourages Japanese participants to see the true value of their own natural resources - and the fun involved in their conservation.
If you fancy growing your own fruit and sharing it with your friends and neighbours, this is the time of year to plant new trees. BTCV can provide the tools to do the job.
Six teenagers have been named Climate Change Campions by the Welsh Assembly, at a special eco day hosted by BTCV.
The youngsters met Jane Davidson, Environment Minister for the Welsh Assembly Government and Ioan Jenkins, Director of BTCV Cymru .
They will each carry out a personal project to help reduce Wales’ carbon footprint.
The Champions’ busy schedule will include visiting and taking part in a wide range of projects, participating in the Welsh Assembly’s Climate Change Commission and meeting politicians and environmental experts.
Jane Davidson said: "The standard of this year’s entries were very high and the winners are outstanding. The Champions have done very well to be chosen.”
At the launch yesterday at BTCV Forest Farm in Cardiff, the champions were 'carbon doctors' for the day. They looked at how BTCV is working towards a sustainable future, how we source our energy and the steps we took to reduce our cardon footprint by 14.6% last year.
Climate change champion Nathan, 16, from Dolgellau, said, “Climate change is going to be the biggest challenge my generation face and I would like to be a part of trying to help make a difference.”
She's two weeks into her South Manchester based placement so far and as part of the deal, she has keep a blog.
"I had a go at sharpening logs for hedging poles, with the aid of a billhook – the first two were a bit scruffy looking, but got the hang of it in the end! Alan showed me how to use an axe – I had a go, but I think I’ll stick to the bowsaw (although, a few swings a day can definitely help release any negative energy!!!)"
Be on the cutting edge of ancient history with a BTCV holiday in Albania
Friday, 22 January 2010
Albania is a country of legends and rich history reflected in its almost untouched archaeological heritage. We've been working since 2002 in the now world famous Butrint National Park, and have seen the development of the new Albanian National Trust (ANT).
With ANT, we are now moving inland to one of Europe's least visited areas to start in on some fascinating archaeological recording in the historic town of Gjirokastra and create a new long-distance trail following Byron’s footsteps and the route of his famous expedition.
Byron's journey will become our journey as we venture into long-since unvisited villages and countryside attempting to retrace and map the route, opening up the area for future travellers.
Albania – In Byron’s Footsteps is running on Saturday 19 June to 3 July 2010and again on Saturday 28 August to 11 September 2010
BTCV Enterprises in Cumbria are helping prisoners to learn new job skills and secure work on their release.
Personal Work Advisor Matt Wall is based at Haverigg Prison in Millom, Lancashire, and works closely with inmates up to two years before the end of their sentence to develop skills and help them achieve qualifications.
Matt helps prisoners selected to take part in the Skills for Jobs for Offenders programme prepare for release, arranges jobs and further training and even meets the men at the prison gates when they’ve served their sentence. He is on hand for six months after their release to support them and help overcome barriers to employment, and once someone is in work he provides support to help them to sustain it.
“It can be very difficult to find employment when you have a criminal record,” said Matt “So this scheme is making a huge difference to people’s prospects and lives. We work closely with them when they do get a job and carry on with reviews for 6 months to ensure they settle in okay and arrange for someone to visit them if they need support.”
New BTCV volunteer Zofia Walczak was so impressed with her first Green Gym volunteering session she wrote an article about it.
Zofia joined Camden Green Gym and can’t wait for next week’s session.
Like many of us, Zofia admits trying conventional gyms and failing. “Gyms make me feel tired and bored,” she said.
“The constant monotonous whir of exercise bikes and running machines, coupled with people in their own bubbles looking stressed and thinking about other things, monitoring their heart rates and counting every calorie they burn makes me depressed.”
BTCV’s Green Gym, however, left Zofia feeling radiant. Read her enthusiastic article in Amelia’s Magazine
Vote BTCV and help win cash
Tuesday, 19 January 2010
Over the next few weeks readers of Trail magazine and Country Walking magazine can vote for which outdoor project gets a share of 30,000 Euros – and BTCV is in the running.
The magazines, via their website Live for the Outdoors are presenting six projects from different groups including BTCV.
From Monday January 25th you’ll have the chance to vote for which project you think deserves the money from the EOG Association for Conservation.
Make sure you vote BTCV. Together with Friends of the Lake District, we’ll use the cash to enhance biodiversity and landscape through practical work, celebrate our countryside and the traditional skills which keep it alive. We’ll involve and train hundreds of volunteers from all walks of life. We can win the cash with your help. Vote Now
Honours for Stan - 91 and going strong!
Monday, 18 January 2010
Remarkable 91-year-old volunteer Stan Church has received an MBE in the New Years Honours List ' For voluntary service to Conservation in Essex'.
Stan has been volunteering with BTCV Essex for many years, sharing his vast knowledge of traditional skills with other volunteers and anybody else who shows an interest!
Stan also volunteers in his local area at Galleywood Common and Hanningfield Nature Reserve and is a campaigner for cycling in Chelmsford.
BTCV will launch an exciting three-year project in Leeds this evening - Access To Nature.
We will be working with volunteers to create welcoming, well managed, wildlife rich sites across the city.
BTCV has been awarded a grant from Natural England as part of Access to Nature, funded through the Big Lottery's Changing Spaces programme, with additional support from National Grid.
More than 20,000 people will be able to access and enjoy nature, though a programme of volunteering, environmental and conservation skills training, education and natural play, walks and wildlife gardening.
The project will be launched this evening at the Leeds City Museum on Millennium Square.
Ring the changes
Wednesday, 13 January 2010
Workers are being challenged to bring an old mobile phone to work today to encourage recycling.
Today is Bring a Phone To Work Day, a new national initiative to promote recycling and raise cash for charity.
BTCV can help you set up a mobile phone recycling scheme. By recycling your old mobile you’ll also be helping to raise money for BTCV.
Recycling for BTCV not only prevents millions of handsets being buried in landfill sites but all proceeds will be invested in BTCV’s work in local communities.
Find out more about mobile phone recycling with BTCV
Lundy Island Marine Joy
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
Lundy island today becomes England's first Marine Conservation Zone. Lundy is the largest island in the Bristol Channel and lies 12 miles (19 km) off the coast of north Devon.
BTCV is running two conservation holidays to Lundy this year. Next month’s holiday is fully booked but there are places still available on the holiday in November (12th-19th).
Rhododendron covers a large area of the east coast of Lundy and can encroach the Lundy Cabbages natural habitat.
Work will involve Rhododendron clearance, cutting, dragging and burning or chipping. The work is often on steep slopes and is physically demanding, but rewarding. You will be working within Natural England’s management plans for Lundy.
Accommodation is in 'The Barn', which is in the heart of the village (less than 2 minute's to the shop and pub).
Today sees the launch of the International Year of Biodiversity.
The U.N. has declared 2010 the International Year of Biodiversity (IYB) and throughout the year initiatives will be organised to promote the protection of biodiversity and encourage organisations, institutions, companies, and individuals to take direct action to reduce the constant loss of biological diversity worldwide
In short, this year is about recognising that humans are part of nature’s rich diversity and have the power to protect or destroy it.
BTCV works to protect and enhance biodiversity.
To get involved in BTCV’s biodiversity work volunteer with a local project today.
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BTCV is registered in England as a limited company (976410) and as a charity in England (261009) and Scotland (SCO39302)
Registered Office: BTCV, Sedum House, Mallard Way, Doncaster DN4 8DB
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