Community Media Volunteer
We are seeking a volunteer to help publicise the opportunities locally for inputting to Local Development Plans, particularly at an early stage. This is really important because communities are getting a chance to have a say in the future of their areas and this volunteer role will work to raise attention through local media of how people can get involved.
This is a once in a decade opportunity for communities but many people do not know about Local Development Plans and the influence that they will have on the future of our towns, cities and countryside.
We are looking for someone who can work on this a minimum of around 3 hours per week and we can be flexible about whether the volunteer comes to our offices in Edinburgh (at the Augustine Church on George IV Bridge Street) or works at home with regular catch-ups.
Training on what Local Development Plans are, and what our aims are around getting community input will be provided. We already have a template press release to work from and are looking for someone passionate about communicating, with good writing skills for various audiences, and is keen to promote participation in the planning system.
You can find out more about Local Development plans here.
Role Tasks
learning more about Local Development Planning and the role of communities (training given)
– researching the key local authorities which are in the ‘Ideas stage’ for their Local Development plans (where communities can make the biggest impacts)
– Adapting template press releases to send out to local press contacts
– following up with local press
– monitoring where the media is picked up
– advising on social media posts that could be put out related to the work
Skills and Knowledge
- We are seeking someone who has skills in writing and communicating.
- With an interest in the Environment
- This may be for someone who is retired and wants to continue using their professional skills for an environmental cause.
- Or it could suit a student who is studying comms/media/marketing/journalism and wants to get practical experience.
Location/Travel
APRS are based at the Augustine Church, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. If volunteers wish to work in the office they would be welcome on Tuesdays/Wednesdays and/or Thursdays. Or they could take up the opportunity at home. It is a 10 minute walk from Waverley station and near many bus stops. The office is up stairs with no lift but we can arrange a ground floor meeting room if needed. If someone who has access needs wishes to volunteer we can meet in a mutually accessible place and the work can be done at home with meetings via zoom.
Training
We will provide information and training on local development plans and the process and ongoing support on press and media work. The volunteer will be managed by Kat Jones, APRS Director, who has done plenty of comms work over her career so can provide good support.
Expenses
We can pay for public transport travel expenses from the Edinburgh area
How to Apply
If you are interested please could you email kat@aprs.scot with the answers to these questions:
- What is it that interests you in this volunteer role?
- What experience or knowledge do you have that would help you in this role?
- What are the key things you are hoping to gain from the role?
- How much time do you have for the role/ when are the times you would be able to take on the tasks?