Spatial Data Collection (GIS) volunteer (Policy & Planning team)

CPRE The Countryside Charity’s national Policy and Planning team have been working on an exciting project exploring how communities are being empowered to secure the future of the Local Green Spaces they love, within the planning system.

We have recently published a report focusing on Local Green Space designations and how effectively it is being used by communities and authorities through Neighbourhood plans and Local plans.  

The report contains three types of datasets and we are looking for keen volunteers to help collate them into one dataset to improve our Local Green Spaces map on the CPRE website.

In anticipation of upcoming Local Green Space research, we would also like volunteers to help us with digitally mapping out all the new designated local green spaces across England.

Many local authorities don’t have available GIS data on where these spaces are located, so we need your help in scrutinising policy maps that are contained in neighbourhood plans and local plans.

While prior GIS mapping software experience is helpful, you don’t need prior experience of GIS mapping for this role, just an ability to accurately input data, an eye for detail and use basic Excel spreadsheets. The team will offer you support and training to use ArcGIS software and throughout your volunteering with us. This is a great way to build your skills and experience using GIS mapping and using real world planning documents.

We are looking for volunteers for an initial 4-6 week period, for a time commitment of around 2-4 hours per week carried out mostly from home. There will be flexibility around when you carry out your volunteer, with scope to fit this around other commitments.

Please note that dues to a high number of applications we are closing this role early on Thursday 27th June.

*We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse CPRE in which everyone feels supported, valued, and always able to be themselves when volunteering. We recognise that a diverse and inclusive volunteer community is important in achieving our vision of a thriving, beautiful countryside and urban green spaces that contribute to wellbeing for everyone.

People of the global majority and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sectors. CPRE wants to be part of bringing underrepresented groups into the sector. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If you identify as a person of these or other underrepresented groups, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.*