Chris Brierley was unemployed for over 6 months before successfully gaining the opportunity to be an Assistant Project Officer at BTCV. He started on the 26 April 2010.BTCV (formerly British Trust for Conservation Volunteers) began as a body organising practical conservation tasks in the countryside. However their role has changed considerably since the foundation of the organisation. Although they have always been involving people in the environment in one way or another, in what the BTCV describes as a 'hands-on' approach, BTCV are now very much involved in community work in urban areas, such as Parnwell which is one of the locations Chris has been working at.
“Before I started this role I was really looking forward to being able to get back into work. I think it was more exciting as I gained the opportunity to work in career I believed I could learn so much from and possibly forge a career path in.”
“Since I have been here I have enjoyed the work I’ve done. I have been given so much training and advice. For example, we have been shown how to tell if a tree is dead or alive, and methods to either preserve or remove the tree. This is great as without that kind of advice I would never gain the right skills needed to progress further.”
“I have really enjoyed working in Parnwell as we have recently been involved in clearing a big section of woodland shrubbery, including trees and bushes. I enjoyed this as we did it as a team and all had to work towards the same goals, which was a new but enjoyable experience. I have always enjoyed working in all weathers, as you can still do all so much to help the environment.”
“Everyone at BTCV has been great and have all been very fun people to work with, who are always keen to help.”
BTCV is based in Parnwell Peterborough, supporting the Pride in Parnwell Project, funded by the Fair Share Lottery. For Further information on the Fair Share Lottery funded projects in Parnwell visit http://www.positivelyparnwell.org.uk/.
