Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse

The purpose of this role is to support the development and delivery of a Biodiversity Action Plan at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse Museum by contributing to ecological surveys, habitat assessments, and wildlife monitoring. Volunteers will help map and record the site's diverse habitats, gather valuable data on habitat condition and species presence, and take part in practical conservation activities.

What's involved?

This role aims to support the wellbeing of volunteers, visitors and the community, while playing a key part in enhancing and protecting the natural environment of the museum grounds and helping to ensure the site is managed in a way that supports wildlife and builds climate resilience. By contributing to a nationally recognised biodiversity monitoring framework, volunteers will provide data that directly informs conservation decisions and long-term planning.

Main Duties:

1. Using tools such as iNaturalist, fixed-point photography and transect survey apps to monitor and record species on site (plants, insects, birds etc.)

2. Carrying out habitat surveys based on the UK Habitat classification (UKHab) and Biodiversity Metric.

3. (Optional) Volunteers will have the opportunity to contribute to learning events linked to the environment and our natural history collections.

4. Helping catalogue our natural history collection, collecting herbarium specimens and contributing to our species database.

5. Supporting the ongoing work of our biodiversity action plan (BAP) by helping us conserve and enhance our habitats for the local community and for future generations.

We are located in a rural part of Mid-Norfolk with limited public transport. Please ensure you have a reliable way to travel to the Museum.

Many of the habitats on site have uneven and soft ground which some may find difficult. Tramper scooters are provided, however there are some areas that will be inaccessible to those with limited mobility.

Why get involved?

The role strengthens the museum’s educational mission by involving the community in hands-on, meaningful conservation work. Volunteers will gain new skills in field survey techniques and biodiversity monitoring and become part of a supportive team helping to demonstrate best practice in environmental stewardship on a public heritage site.

Skills needed:

• It is essential that volunteers are happy working in a team of people with different needs, interests and skill levels.
• Volunteers should be happy working outdoors.
• Attention to detail is important for species recording, but volunteers will be trained in capturing the key information.
• Volunteers should have a genuine interest in natural history and/or local nature
• It is expected that volunteers are able to commit a minimum of one afternoon per week Monday to Friday.

How to get involved?

• Sign up or Log in
• You will need to complete an application form and provide references.
• There will be a taster session on 25th June.
• Someone will be in touch once you accept this challenge 

This role does not normally require a DBS check. If volunteers begin to lead groups or work with school or community groups more a DBS check may be required. This will be assessed as the role develops.