RSPB Team Member (Swift Champion - West Midlands)

Become a Swift Champion Volunteer (West Midlands)

Every spring, Swifts journey from Africa to Birmingham and the Black Country to nest and raise their chicks in our buildings. Unfortunately, the number of suitable nesting sites have declined, leading to a halving of their population in the UK over the last 25 years. To help protect these amazing birds, we’re looking for passionate community Swift Champions!

There are lots of ways you could get involved, including:

Community Engagement: Inspiring people in your community to provide homes for Swifts through local communications, walks, talks and workshops.

Planning: Encouraging building planners and developers to provide Swift-friendly buildings.

Community Engagement: What You'll Do:

• Get the Word Out: Distribute leaflets in your neighbourhood to encourage residents to create nesting opportunities for Swifts.
• Organise Fun Swift Events: Plan Swift walks, set up stands at local events, and give engaging talks to spread the word.
• Collaborate Locally: Work with local groups and contractors to build and install nest boxes.
• Form Local Swift Groups: Start a Swift group in your area or connect with schools and churches to promote Swift conservation.

Planning: What You'll Do

• Advocate for Swifts: Encourage local planners and developers to create Swift-friendly buildings.
• Engage with Planning Applications: Help by reviewing local planning applications and suggesting measures for Swift conservation.
• Build Relationships: Connect with housing departments and landlords to promote nesting opportunities and work directly with developers and architects to raise awareness about Swifts.

How RSPB Will Support You:

• Equipment, materials and templates to help you engage with your local community and/or the planning system
• Training on Swifts, conservation measures and responding to planning applications
• Access to a network of other people in the area that are interested in Swifts
• Up-to-date guidance and information to assist in your conservation efforts.

Skills Needed:

• Basic IT skills for managing documents and spreadsheets.
• Great communication skills to connect with diverse audiences.
• Strong organisational abilities to keep things running smoothly.

Join us as a Swift Champion and make a real difference for these wonderful birds! Your passion can help ensure Swifts continue to grace our skies for years to come.

Disclaimer:

Suitable for under 18's. The RSPB will reimburse you for out of pocket expenses travel expenses, we will provide the equipment, training and any uniform needed for you to complete the role We’re now the largest nature conservation charity in the country, consistently delivering successful conservation, forging powerful new partnerships with other organisations and inspiring others to stand up and give nature the home it deserves. We rely on the support and generosity of our volunteers to make a difference Our work stretches far beyond the UK. Wherever wildlife is in threat, we'll work with partners across the globe to help save it and give it a home.