activity plan 2011
DESCRIPTION
Activity Plan 2011 for Penllergare Valley WoodsTRANSCRIPT
Summary ........................................................................................................................... 3 Penllergare Valley Woods ............................................................................................ 4 The Penllergare Trust .................................................................................................. 4 The Project .................................................................................................................... 5
Chapter 1 - Where are we now? ...................................................................................... 7 Organisation ................................................................................................................. 7 Relationship Between Penllergare Valley Woods and People ................................. 8 How Has the Activity Plan Been Created? ............................................................... 10 Audiences and Activities ........................................................................................... 10 Barriers to Involving People ..................................................................................... 17 Building on Good Practice ........................................................................................ 19
Chapter 2 – Strategic Decisions About Involving People .......................................... 22 Considerations for Involving People ........................................................................ 22 Priority Target Audiences .......................................................................................... 24 Overview of Proposed Activities ............................................................................... 26 Meeting the HLF Aims of Learning and Participation ............................................. 28 Management of Activities .......................................................................................... 28 Measures of Success and Evaluation ...................................................................... 30 Sustaining Long Term Benefits ................................................................................. 32 Further Organisational Development and Sharing the Lessons ........................... 33 Activity Budget Summary .......................................................................................... 35
......................................................................................................................................... 35 Chapter 3 - Action Plan .................................................................................................. 36
Penllergare Team Works ............................................................................................ 36 Presenting Penllergare .............................................................................................. 39 Partnership Projects Development ........................................................................... 48 Annex 1- Aims of the Community Education and Engagement Programme ....... 49 Annex 2 – Letters of Support .................................................................................... 50 Annex 3 - Penllergare Valley Woods HLF Project - Overall Organisation and Responsibilities .......................................................................................................... 58 Annex 4 - Project Staff Draft Role Profiles ............................................................... 59 Annex 5 – Sample Volunteer Role Descriptions ...................................................... 71 Annex 6 – Sample Walks Brief .................................................................................. 79 Annex 7 – Activity Planning Chart ............................................................................ 82
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Summary
SummaryThe saving and regeneration of Penllergare Valley Woods and the Walled Gardens has
been under-pinned by the Penllergare Trust’s pioneering programme of Community
Engagement and Education (C2E) – see Annex 1.
This Activity Plan (the Plan) complements the Management, Maintenance and Business
Plan (MMBP). Both are part of the Penllergare Trust’s application for a second round
award from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) under its ‘Parks for People’ programme.
The Plan seeks to address two principal aims:
Firstly, to foster and strengthen the sense of pride, care, understanding and commitment
by local people, on whose support the success of the project ultimately relies. This is to be
achieved by significantly increasing voluntary support for management of Valley Woods
and the Walled Gardens operations, from litter clearing to Trusteeship.
Secondly, to improve the appeal of Valley Woods to wider audiences, encouraging more
people to visit, enjoy and understand the natural and cultural heritage of Penllergare Valley
Woods. This is to be achieved by improved interpretation, provision of facilities and
enjoyable activities.
The Plan builds on the solid foundations laid down in recent years through the Community
Engagement and Education programme highlighted above, and uses the themes of
‘Participation’ and ‘Learning’ to complement the physical works to restore and safeguard
the heritage of Valley Woods. The concluding Action Plan proposes two main components:
Penllergare Team-Works is a programme of volunteer development and involvement,
aimed at helping to assure the future of the Penllergare Valley Woods project.
Presenting Penllergare! is a rolling programme of activities based on the special natural
and cultural qualities of Valley Woods to attract local people as well as visitors from
further afield.
Additionally, the Action Plan includes for some partnership development work with other
organisations aimed at ensuring wider support and sustainability after this project phase.
This plan, although laying the foundations for all the Penllergare Trust’s activities in Valley
Woods and the walled gardens, does not include specific activities for the walled gardens.
Restoration of the walled gardens and associated activities are to be the subject of a
second phase of planning and work.
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Introduction
Introduction
Penllergare Valley Woods
In its Victorian heyday, the Penllergare estate near Swansea was owned by John Dillwyn
Llewelyn. It was a hothouse of innovation, enquiry, learning and related activities, set in a
park and gardens renowned for their picturesque, romantic scenery and richly abundant
plantings. Penllergare therefore became a favourite destination for visitors.
When urban Swansea started to encroach in the twentieth century, the family moved away
and the house was abandoned and later destroyed. The estate became fragmented
through development and new road building. People from the adjacent 1950s housing
estates seized their opportunity and adopted this beautiful, neglected wildscape as their
own backyard, an oasis in which to escape the pressures of life.
However, the designed core area which includes Valley Woods, the former Pleasure
Grounds and the Walled Gardens survived intact, though in an accelerating state of
dereliction, neglect and vandalism. The national significance of Penllergare Valley Woods
is acknowledged in its inclusion in the Cadw register of Parks and Gardens at Grade II and
in the scheduling of the Observatory and Orchid House as Ancient Monuments.
Valley Woods is bordered by housing, including the Parc Penllergare and the social
housing estates of Portmead, Blaenymaes and Penlan. Other nearby Swansea suburbs
including Cockett, Penllergaer, Forestfach, Llangyfelach and Morriston are within the
catchment areas for a country park of this type as defined by the Countryside Council for
Wales. The 15 min drive time resident population is 325,306 (137,753 households) for
which Penllergare Valley Woods is their nearest green space. At 100 hectares (250 acres)
it is the only substantial recreational green space in this part of Swansea. It was
designated as a Country Park in the 1990s though Section 106 agreements with
developers, who had secured a long lease on the valley. Unfortunately the promised park
failed to materialise. In response to this failure, a small group of like-minded people
resolved to champion Valley Woods, to attempt to prevent the loss to the nation of an
important part of its heritage, and the loss to the community of a much-loved recreational
green space.
The Penllergare Trust
The Penllergare Trust (the Trust) was incorporated in May 2000 as a company limited by
guarantee (no. 4004593) and as a registered charity (no. 1082128) to further the
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Introduction
protection, restoration and regeneration of Valley Woods for the benefit of the public.
Board meetings are held bi-monthly.
From the outset Trustees recognised that, if they were to succeed where others had failed,
they had to achieve two over-riding aims:
To foster and strengthen local people’s love and commitment to the place, and
To make Valley Woods a safer and more enjoyable place for all visitors.
In the intervening decade the Trust has had a profound impact on Valley Woods, despite
lacking a formal legal interest in the land. The Trustees along with many other volunteers
and staff have diligently and professionally undertaken surveys, monitoring, research and
consultation. They have opened up paths, revealed historic features, controlled antisocial
activities, carried out practical maintenance and silvicultural projects, and - most
importantly - they have actively encouraged access through a programme of events, talks,
guided walks, school visits, and training courses. Under-pinned by voluntary effort these
activities have been funded through grants and donations from organisations and people
that have all recognised the significant opportunities and value that Valley Woods has to
the local communities and the key commitment and role that the Penllergare Trust is
playing. A selection of supporting letters is at Annex 2.
The Trust’s first major publication was the book by Richard Morris, ‘Penllergare, A
Victorian Paradise’ published in 2000. Since then ‘Echoes from Valley Woods – An
Anthology’ was published in 2006.This has been indispensable in giving voice to the
people who lived, worked, played and visited spanning nearly 200 years. Writings by the
Llewelyn family, with the unique archive of contemporary imagery and reports of visitors
describing its charms and innovations, bring Penllergare to almost unrivalled life. Brought
up to date with the reminiscences of local people (the outcomes of an ongoing oral history
project), the book conveys the interest that the site has held and still holds for local people
and visitors from further afield. A copy is enclosed with the application.
The Project
Through its programme of careful survey, research and enquiry, the Penllergare Trust has
acquired a thorough understanding of Valley Woods, including the Walled Gardens and
their immediate surroundings, and has prepared conservation and management policies
(set out in the Conservation Management Plan) to secure Valley Woods and the Walled
Gardens for long term public benefit, if funding is available. The Trust is now in a confident
position to initiate major physical restoration proposals.
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Introduction
In summary, the project includes
• acquisition of a secure tenure in Valley Woods and the Walled Gardens
• restoration of the Upper Lake; stone steps; drystone walls; river bridge, historic
paths and drives and the Observatory (restoration of the walled gardens is to be the
subject of a separate and second phase of works)
• construction of a small visitor kiosk and access improvements for all abilities
This programme of work opens up new opportunities to engage with more people in
furtherance of the aims of the Trust, as a pioneering, independent, third sector charity, as
well as those of the HLF Parks for People programme. The development of specific
activities for the walled gardens is planned as part of the second phase project.
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
Chapter 1 - Where are we now?
Organisation
The Penllergare Trust, as a privately run charity, is highly committed to involving people at
every level, as evidenced through its Community Engagement and Education strategy
(Annex 1). This commitment is demonstrated in the following ways.
• The voluntary Board of Trustees has been actively involved in shaping the project
from the outset. A new Trustee with educational and young people experience has
joined since the Round 1 approval. Local representatives are encouraged to attend
Board meetings as contributing Observers, including from the Gower Society; the
Blaenymaes, Portmead, Penplas Development Trust (Communities First group) and
the local county councillor.
• In 2006, the Friends of Penllergare Valley Woods was formed as a support and
fundraising group. There are now around 200 members who enjoy a quarterly
newsletter and a range of activities including regular meetings, guided walks and
visits.
• The Penllergare Trust is currently in receipt of a Big Lottery Fund (BLF) grant under
the People and Places programme (2008 – 2012), for the innovative and ambitious
Community Engagement and Education project (C2E) – total project value
£325,000 with BLF grant of £260,000. Under this scheme, local schools have
become more involved through two key projects: Wild for Woods (primary schools)
and Let’s Go Exploring (foundation and early years learning). Additionally, older
children are encouraged to get involved through activity, adventure and challenge
days organised in conjunction with local secondary schools and also during school
holidays.
• A Forum was created in 2008 supported by the Countryside Council for Wales, to
give opinion and advice on the planning and operation of Valley Woods. The Forum
is made up of users of Valley Woods and other key stakeholders and has been a
major consultee in the development of the Parks for People project. The Forum has
three main functions:
1. To represent the interests of the users of Penllergare Valley Woods
2. To act as a primary consultee for the Penllergare Trust on the planning and
management of Valley Woods for the benefit of the public
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
3. To contribute local knowledge and specialist skills
• Volunteers and the development of volunteering is a priority for the Penllergare
Trust. Retired people make up a regular Thursday volunteer group. In recent times
they have been joined by students, job seekers and people awaiting work permits,
attracted by Open College Network accredited training in practical woodland skills
on offer and also the opportunity to gain experience and skills. Other volunteers are
engaged in administration, fund-raising, school visits and site management.
During the development period of this plan, the importance of engaging the local
community at all levels has become even more apparent. A review of Trustees has
identified the desirability of having a broader range to reflect the local community. Some
progress has already been made with the appointment to the Board of a local head
teacher. In addition, the adjacent ‘Communities First’ (ie the Blaenymaes, Portmead,
Penplas Development Trust Ltd, a Welsh Assembly Government initiative) Community
Regeneration Co-ordinator has joined the Board as a contributing Observer. This plan
details further actions to further this strategy.
Relationship Between Penllergare Valley Woods and People
Since Valley Woods was effectively abandoned by its owners in the mid C20th, the area
became a valued informal recreational space for local residents. Many of the designed
features became fun-to-explore romantic ruins, and the woods became more and more
wild and inaccessible. However, community feelings for Valley Woods remained strong. In
2005 an oral history project to record the collective community memory of Valley Woods
was very well supported.
Several generations have grown up enjoying the outdoor games, adventures and contact
with the natural environment that is no longer second nature to a largely urban society.
For children, Valley Woods became their natural backyard, a place for adventure, camping,
swimming, poaching and bunking off school. Their parents also enjoyed the woodlands,
wildlife and water and it was a favourite destination for family weekends. Despite years of
neglect, decay and vandalism, the Woods have remained of sentimental significance for
people who cherish their happy childhood associations with the place.
In the 1980s, and through the 1990s, the nature of some activities changed as the more
resourceful and self reliant (or even wilful) enjoyed the Woods, though with a different
range of activities from their forebears. Litter and burnt-out cars were commonplace; the
use of quad bikes, off road motor cycling and dumping of stolen vehicles have been
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
popular activities, along with arson! The combined effects of all this had been to put people
off walking in the woods and enjoying the place.
“As one of the socio economically poor of Portmead ….Penllergare was, and is, one of my
most favourite haunts. It cost nothing but exercise. When I was an adult, I was always
wary of going there alone as in the 80s there were tales of drug addicts and reprobates
scouring the woods. The innocence of the 60s was lost but the magic remained.”
Jane Hanley 2005. Extract from ‘Echoes form Valley Woods’
The Penllergare Trust is reversing this position through active management and close
communication with the police. A growing number of older people who value the woods
from their own experiences as youths are getting involved in practical activities such as
litter picking, voluntary wardening, helping with the school visits etc. Over the last ten
years, the Penllergare Trust has introduced a new generation of young people to the
landscape and the wildlife, instilling a sense of discovery and fun to be had in Valley
Woods. The Woods are once again a popular place for dog walkers, local children and
families and for those seeking more active exercise eg jogging and running. A small but
growing number of tourists are drawn by the web site and publicity.
Guided walks, informed by extensive historic and archaeological research in recent years,
have enabled local people to gain a valuable insight into and better understanding of the
heritage. These walks, together with the publication of ‘Echoes from Valley Woods’, has
encouraged more people to visit more often and also in some cases to become involved in
volunteering. The book brings Penllergare and its adjacent village community to life.
The importance of maintaining the ‘wild’ and natural character of the woods was
highlighted throughout the consultations undertaken in 2006, 2008 and more recently in
2010, when the project has been fully aired through the Forum and in local exhibitions of
the proposals. Continuation of the sensitive programme of restoration is something that
visitors and consultees welcome, along with appropriate and ongoing maintenance of
paths, lakes, river and woodland. Current users also appreciate free access and expect
this to continue into the future. A number of local people also set up overnight camps in
Valley Woods and see this as their right.
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
How Has the Activity Plan Been Created?
The Activity Plan has been informed by the considerable planning and consultation,
including a visitor survey (25 semi structured face to face on site interviews) and survey of
Friends (55 self completed surveys returned from 187 sent out) undertaken in the run up to
the Round 1 application and drawn together in the draft Access, Audience Development
and Training Plan prepared by VZJ Associates in 2008 (AADTP), copy in separate file as
Annex 8.
Since gaining Round 1 approval, a small project team led by the Company Secretary (a
volunteer), staff and external consultants, has reviewed the information gathered in the
AADTP and undertaken further consultation with the Forum, volunteers, the Trustees and
a number of other groups and organisations represented by Observers at the Trustees
meetings, eg the City and County of Swansea, the Blaenymaes, Portmead, Penplas
Development Trust Ltd, the Countryside Council for Wales and the Swansea Council for
Voluntary Services.
This plan has been created under the auspices of this group.
Audiences and ActivitiesPresent audiences
1. Local residents (living within a 15 min drive time).
This diverse group represents the largest current audience group, within which the
main groups are:
Couples/singles, predominantly adults
Children and young people
Families - adults and children
Estimated overall visitor numbers are 16,000 to 18,000 per annum (VZJAssociates
2008), though on site observation and anecdotal evidence suggests that this has
increased to over 20,000 in the last two years. Based on the 2008 survey results 60%
of visitors are local residents.
People who walk in the woods informally often visit on a daily or at least weekly basis
and numbers are steadily increasing as the woods have been made safer for visitors
and paths opened up. On site conversations between staff, volunteers and visitors
back this up and there is an increasing trend of many more walkers throughout the
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
year, at all times of the day, especially at weekends. A significant number of people in
this audience group arrive on foot. Visitor counters have been installed at strategic
points in December 2010 which will provide more accurate information in the future.
This group, predominantly adults, visit the woods to walk their dogs, for fresh air and
exercise, for quiet relaxation and to join in with public and arranged guided walks.
There is also an informal tradition of fishing in the lower lake, an arrangement that is
presently being formalised through the establishment of a self managing angling club.
Local residents are now also joining in more actively as volunteers in activities such as
litter picking, practical woodland and path maintenance and assisting on guided walks
and with school group visits.
This audience group is extremely important for Valley Woods since they are most likely
to value the amenity on their doorstep and thus to actively support it through a wide
range of voluntary activities in the future – a key factor for future sustainability.
2. Children and young adults living on adjacent social housing estates
Valley Woods is adjacent to several severely socially disadvantaged communities, for
example:
• 57.5% of the population in the Penderry Ward (10,981) live in social housing
(Swansea av= 17.9%) and
• 49% do not have a car.
• 30% of this population have a limiting long term illness compared with the
Swansea average of 24.7%.
• Only 43.8% of this population is in employment (Swansea av 52%)
• 52.9% of this population of working age do not have any qualifications.
(Source: VZJ Associates draft Access, Audience Development and Training Plan from the ONS-2001
Census)
This group has enjoyed unfettered access to the woods in the past as their ‘back yard’,
to do almost whatever they want at almost anytime of the day and night. In recent
times, many activities they pursue are unauthorised and conflict with the overriding aim
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
of the Penllergare Trust to make this a safe and accessible place for all. Considerable
progress has been made to overcome these issues in recent years through good
design, investment in infrastructure and through seeking to work collaboratively with
local representatives and community organisations. This is an ongoing priority.
The challenge for the Penllergare Trust is to keep local people engaged with the place
in a way that is sympathetic to its conservation and that respects other users.
3. Residents from further afield (up to 60 minutes drive time) ie the Day Visitor
Based on the 2008 visitor survey, 32% of visitors lived beyond 15 mins drive time but
within 30 mins. They are attracted by local publicity and the opportunity for informal
recreation. They drive to Penllergare to join a public guided walk, take a self guided
walk or to walk their dog and many (32%) cited that they bring the children to Valley
Woods to play. This is an as yet under represented audience and there is considerable
scope to increase the number of people visiting for these activities and also to
gradually increase the radius from which people are drawn through additional publicity,
marketing and provision of appropriate activities to enhance their visit. Access to the
woods is excellent, being just off J47 of the M4, and although almost all currently arrive
by car, there is potential to increase access via the good public transport links that
exist.
4. Local Schools
Under the aegis of the Community Engagement and Education Programme, a
partnership between Valley Woods and four local infant and primary schools and one
secondary school has been developed. This has been very well received and has been
highly valued by the schools, the parents and the children. The work with primary and
secondary schools is especially beneficial to Valley Woods. Primary school children are
more aware of the experience and there is evidence that they return to Valley Woods
during weekends and school holidays with their families. The secondary school
children undertake essential practical path and woodland maintenance work as part of
the Alternative Curriculum and they gain valuable skills and work experience. Some
return to become regular volunteers.
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
In 2008/9 (September to July) 449 infant and primary school children visited in 14 class
visits, and 84 secondary school children undertook practical conservation work. In
addition there were 4 in-school workshops, 2 activity picnics and 5 holiday adventure
days.
In 2009/10, the figures rose to 516 infant and primary school children visits in 15 class
visits. 105 children attended Activity Days as part of their transition experience and 264
secondary school children undertook practical conservation work. There were 2 in-
school workshops, 1 activity picnic and 4 adventure days.
This is a growing demand for the outdoor classroom type of experience that Valley
Woods can offer and several other schools are known to be interested.
5. The Friends of Penllergare
This support group, whose membership mainly lives within half an hour drive time of
the woods, was formed in 2008. The Friends enjoy intellectual access as well as
physical access through a programme of guided walks, talks and lectures, events and
other social activities in support of Penllergare Valley Woods.
The Friends group, still in its early stages, is reliant on paid staff and regular volunteers
for administration, promotion and organisation of events and social activities. There is
potential for them to become more actively involved and to develop into a self
administering active support group, fundraising and generally raising awareness for
Valley Woods.
6. Volunteers
Voluntary activities range from Trusteeship, Company Secretary and fundraising,
through to helping out with school group visits, events, litter picking, surveying and
recording, to practical conservation work. Some volunteer as a direct expression of
their support for the work of the Penllergare Trust, whilst others volunteer as part of an
active lifestyle and others volunteer specifically to secure work experience and skills for
personal and career development.
In 2010 the following volunteer hours were recorded:
Trustees 220
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
Management and Fundraising 2,030
Wardens 1,370
Education 80
Guided walks 110
Other 40
Developing volunteering is fundamental to the future sustainability of Valley Woods, as
things currently stand. Valley Woods is highly unusual in that it is managed by a private
trust, whereas most other local green spaces and country parks are either local
authority or Forestry Commission owned and run. Other nearby natural attractions that
are not run by local authorities all are discrete sites and have an entry charge. This is
not feasible at Penllergare Valley Woods. There is an imperative to encourage more
and a wider range of volunteers to actively participate in the management and running
of Valley Woods.
7. Employees of the City and County of Swansea based in the Penllergare
offices
About 200 members of staff are based here and there is an increasing trend for staff to
go for a walk or go jogging during breaks in their working days. A programme of
lunchtime walks for health – ‘Stepping Out’ – started in 2009 on a trial basis, open to
all-comers.
Potential audiences
Valley Woods as a purely countryside attraction is in the same market for people’s time as
the Gower Peninsula, nearby Forestry Commission woodlands, Singleton Park (Swansea)
Clyne Valley Country Park (Swansea), Cwmdonkin Park (Swansea), the Gnoll (Neath),
Margam Country Park (Port Talbot) and Pembrey (Llanelli) as well as a handful of other
local authority public and country parks within a 60 minute drive time catchment, including
the National Botanic Garden. However, none of these places has the combined drama of
landscape and heritage in a beautiful woodland setting such as exists at Penllergare,
making Valley Woods locally unique. As mentioned above, Valley Woods is in a unique
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
position as all of these sites are owned and maintained at public expense, whereas the
Penllergare Trust receives no public revenue support.
Over 2 million people a year come into the Swansea Bay tourism area as day visitors.
Many are looking for new things to do and interesting places to see on their days out and
Penllergare Valley Woods offers a unique experience in terms of scale, a feeling of
remoteness, dramatic topography and a tangible sense of history. Although offering low
key facilities, there is considerable scope to cross market Valley Woods for visitors in the
future, especially given the ease of access to Valley Woods immediately off J47 of the M4.
There is considerable potential to increase the numbers within the current audience
groups, especially focussing on developing voluntary input from within the local
communities. In addition, there is potential to develop specific audience groups as follows:
1. The ‘Heritage Visitor’
There is a growing demand for guided visits from people further afield drawn to
Penllergare by its landscape and cultural heritage eg the Welsh Historic Gardens Trust
and other amenity groups, together with individuals attracted by the Trust’s publications
and website with its links through Google to other such sites [incl Wikipedia!]. Also
feedback from staff and volunteers who regularly speak to visitors suggests that, as the
paths are opened up and the entrances improved, an increasing trickle of tourists is
drawn to Penllergare for the same reasons. Their visit may have been prompted by
press and media coverage in recent years about the plight of this historic landscape
and also word of mouth comments, evidenced by increasing web site traffic. As things
stand, the landscape and cultural heritage can only really be explored and understood
with an informed guide. Given improved literature, trails and interpretation, the heritage
aspects will undoubtedly draw many more people for an interesting day out. Valley
Woods features as a link on an increasing number of websites through its inclusion on
the Cadw register of historic parks and gardens. There is considerable scope to
develop this audience through careful marketing, provision of good facilities and well
planned activities along with potential to generate revenue and support.
2. Primary school children
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
In 2010 a classroom, the ‘woodland centre’, was built in Valley Woods, providing for the
first time a wet weather facility. Up until then, school visits were often cancelled as a
result of poor weather conditions. These visits considerably help to raise awareness
locally and encourage family visits, and there is also evidence to suggest that they can
also positively influence antisocial behaviour as the children grow up. Although the
immediate priority is to keep at least the nearest four Primary Schools engaged, there
is considerable merit in expanding the ‘Wild for Woods’ offer in the future. There is
considerable potential given that there are 56 primary schools within a 5 mile radius.
3. Young Adults, including secondary schools
Consultation with local school advisers and teachers indicate that secondary schools
would be prepared to travel up to one hour for a visit for the right activity. The right
activity for schools includes alternative curriculum programmes (alternative to the
GCSE provision), the Personal and Social Education part of the Welsh Baccalaureate
Core Provision (activity in the local community) and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Scheme. Experience to date suggests that Valley Woods has plenty to offer, if the
resources and supportive framework are available. Currently, this is an under
represented audience given that there are 14 secondary schools within 5 miles. These
children all live locally and Valley Woods is part of their heritage and their inheritance.
Although not all will remain locally as adults, the Penllergare Trust believes that it is
important that they learn about Valley Woods to give them a taste of the natural
environment in real life and not just on TV, whilst also developing a sense of
stewardship for the woods for longer term sustainability.
4. Young Adults, including Further and Higher Education Institutions
A small number of students from local colleges and Universities have joined in with
voluntary activities in recent years. There is considerable potential to engage with
these Institutions to offer a range of projects at Valley Woods as well as to recruit
volunteers.
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
Barriers to Involving People
Barriers to involvement have been identified through recent surveys (2006 and 2008 in
particular); from feedback from people joining in with activities and also from more recent
day to day contact between staff and volunteers and visitors while undergoing routine work
on site. The Forum is also a most valuable form of contact in identifying barriers.
1. History of anti-social activity
A history of anti social activities in the past has left a scar on Valley Woods in terms
of people’s perception of the place being safe to visit. The 2008 survey identified a
number of issues that put people off from visiting including;
• Motor bikes / quads
• Dumped cars
• Personal safety
• Lack of safe parking
• Young people lighting fires
The incidence of many of these activities has decreased markedly in the last five
years and a campaign is now needed to encourage people to try the woods again
for a visit. A new dedicated safe parking area is planned as part of the project.
2. Revenue and site presence – people
The scope to develop revenue at and from Valley Woods is limited. The Penllergare
Trust has to date been primarily dependant on voluntary inputs, assistance in kind
and varied project funding. Now that a secure tenure is in sight the Penllergare
Trust proposes a plan to develop modest income to meet essential management
and maintenance costs. Although some of the audience groups have great potential
for development eg Primary Schools and other educational enrichment activities,
they require a high labour input to sustain them. The ability to realise this potential
will be dependant on future success in developing in kind partnerships, volunteering
and securing additional project funds and donations. This plan proposes an
ambitious plan to develop volunteering and local partnerships to a much greater
extent than at present in order to develop and sustain some of the activities that are
seen in the community as very valuable and that make Valley Woods an essential
part of the community it serves.
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Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
3. Physical presence
There is no physical point of presence for the Penllergare Trust to engage with the
majority of visitors who do not attend an organised activity. Welcome signs and
notice boards have recently been erected at the main entrances to the woods. To
partially overcome this, whenever possible, visitors attention is drawn to the
Penllergare Trust web site, where there is a lot of information about the history and
culture of the site and how to get involved. The project includes plans to develop a
visitor information point and refreshment kiosk manned by volunteers to give not
only a point of presence but also a human face.
4. Lack of awareness
There is a general lack of awareness of Valley Woods within both the local and
wider communities. Until about five years ago it had become a largely forgotten
place. The publication of ‘Echoes from Valley Woods’ in 2006 and recent press
coverage has done a lot to remind people of the richness of the history and culture,
but it remains a hidden treasure both as an important component of the heritage
and as a valuable local recreational amenity. The planned walks, talks and schools
programme, along with increased publicity is aimed at overcoming this. Penllergare
Valley Woods already has a Facebook presence and it is proposed to develop this
and other social media as part of its planned web development activities.
5. Lack of site facilities
Respondents to the visitor survey requested more seats and benches, especially at
key view points and main features and also more signs to enable people to find
their way round the woods. The Forum has identified the lack of on-site facilities for
volunteers as a barrier to developing volunteering. The Project includes the
provision of more and better facilities for visitors and volunteers to use. The barrier
to developing activities with local schools has largely been overcome by the
provision of a woodland classroom.
6. Physical barriers
Very busy main roads and the motorway are physical barriers to people walking to
the woods from surrounding houses, for example, the residential communities of
Penllergaer, Pontlliw and Tir Coed village. Steep gradients within the upper end of
Valley Woods are a barrier to some people Several respondents to the 2008 visitor
survey highlighted points of inaccessibility including bridges that are too narrow for
18
Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
pushchairs and locked gates in places. The project includes for a walkway under
the M4 that would facilitate access from the M4 Service station and also from
Pontlliw and Tir Coed village. The provision of an all ability car parking area and the
kiosk, along with path and drive improvements will considerably improve access.
7. Cultural barriers
There is a perceived cultural barrier with many residents, mostly young people, in
adjacent housing estates. The Penllergare Trust might be seen in some quarters as
trying to spoil the fun of people who have had free access to the woods for many
years before the Trust came on the scene. Some people would prefer there not to
be any changes. Facing up to these perceptions and building trust and confidence
with these communities is a long term aim. Involvement of young people throughout
their school years; changing perception through engagement, and peer pressure
should all have a positive effect in reducing this barrier. The Penllergare Trust
expects that people using the woods will enter into an implicit bargain that if Valley
Woods is to be maintained as a safe and enjoyable place to visit then people using
it must help to make it so. Using volunteers and a ‘boots-on-the ground’
management approach encourages a real sense of ‘shared ownership’ and
participation. In addition, wherever possible local people are employed for contract
and permanent posts and considerable effort has been made from the start to
recruit more local trustees and observers, to encourage a real sense of local
ownership and participation.
Building on Good Practice
Throughout the time that the Penllergare Trust has been involved with
Valley Woods, staff and volunteers have aimed to build good
relationships with other like minded organisations and groups and to
learn from good practice elsewhere. Through close collaboration, the Penllergare
Trust will also seek to build on the good practice of organisations such as the City and
County of Swansea, the National Trust, the Forestry Commission, Small Woodlands
Association, Down to Earth Trust, Groundwork, the Friends of Cwmdonkin Park and
others. A draft Memorandum of Understanding with the City and County of Swansea will
facilitate cooperation in the achievement of shared objectives for public benefit.
As the next phase in the project gets underway, the Penllergare Trust
will continue to draw on these experiences and is already in discussion
19
Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
with the Small Woods Association to work collaboratively as part of the
‘Llais y Goedwig’ network of community woodlands in Wales. In
particular, there are some parallels between the Coed Lleol project and
the Valley Woods ‘Stepping Out’ initiative, whereby walking for health is
promoted as part of the National Health Service ‘offer’. As a start, it is
planned for Valley Woods to host a ‘Community Day’ as part of the Llais y Goedwig
network and also to arrange some study visits with a view to planning a pilot project
drawing on best practices elsewhere, including on developing sustainable sources of
income.
The Penllergare Trust is in contact with the Warley Woods Community
Trust, Smethwick, nr Birmingham on a range of issues of common
interest. This link will be nurtured.
The Penllergare Trust is also working closely with the Forestry
Commission to establish a strong Forest Schools project in the area.
Discussions are also taking place with Groundwork Wales to develop
best practice in provision of an alternative curriculum in partnership
with local schools. Through sharing good practice in this way, it will be
possible to ensure a more sustainable approach to many of the activities
planned in the next three years as part of this Parks for People project
and it is hoped that the Valley Woods project will become a model of
good practice in innovative, third sector management of recreational
green space.
In respect to the issues relating to managing land adjacent to a large urban area and in
particular coping with antisocial behaviour, there are similarities between Valley Woods
and with the National Trust experiences at Erddig, near Wrexham – see Case Study
below. Over several years, and with sustained effort on both sides, the relationship
between the Erddig estate and local communities has been transformed. A similar level of
transformation is the aim of the Penllergare Trust and although it is largely beyond the
20
Chapter 1 – Where are we now?
scope of the planned three year project, it is proposed to lay solid foundations for further,
future developments.
Case Study – Erddig, Wrexham. (National Trust)
In the 1980s, conventional forms of controlling unauthorised access from adjacent urban
areas were failing to work. The associated vandalism, theft and damage was impacting on
other visitors, and also the cost of managing the estate. Through the development of
partnerships with community groups and local government along with strategic
investments, the level of offensive and damaging activities has declined. The young people
have developed a stronger sense of shared ownership of the park expressed through
practical and planned social activities. This change has occurred over many years and with
a significant investment of staff time and money.
21
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
Chapter 2 – Strategic Decisions About Involving People
It is a strategic imperative for the Penllergare Trust to deepen its involvement with local
people, since this is fundamental to the future sustainability of Valley Woods.
Considerations for Involving People
The objectives of the Penllergare Trust are:
to further the protection, conservation and restoration of the cultural landscape of Penllergare.
to protect and enhance Penllergare`s diversity of wildlife.
to provide an oasis in the surrounding urbanisation for free, quiet enjoyment by local people and visitors on foot.
to promote knowledge and appreciation of Penllergare, its history and biodiversity.
to provide sustainable training and employment (including volunteers).
Everything achieved to date has been as a result of a partnership or collaboration. In
addition to its recognition an important historic landscape, Penllergare Valley Woods was
designated a Country Park by the City and Council of Swansea. It is a vital green space in
the north of the City and is acknowledged as such in the Unitary Development Plan. It has
considerable potential to contribute to many public policies relating to quality of life, well
being and healthy living.
Significant voluntary effort over the last 10 years has secured support, project funding,
donations and gifts. Opportunities to generate revenue from the site are constrained, thus
future success will be heavily dependent on sustaining and developing support, especially
locally. As a priority, future activities must encourage the development of a stronger
voluntary input and involvement in order to provide a solid foundation for generating
revenue for the future. It is acknowledged that some current activities may have to give
way unless or until additional resources can be secured.
For two centuries Penllergare has been a magnet to visitors. It was at the forefront of the
emerging sciences in the nineteenth century: botany and horticulture, photography and
landscape, astronomy and physics. Its natural and enhanced beauty made it a model of
picturesque landscape so admired at that time. As described earlier, it also has a more
recent history of adventure for children and families of all ages that should also form the
22
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
foundation of activities in the future. This provides a rich and abundant resource for
activities to stimulate interest and learning for all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
The Penllergare Trust has gained considerable experience and a good track record in
fundraising for and providing voluntary opportunities in research, woodland management,
delivering high standards of experiences for local school children and undertaking practical
conservation work and projects. The flagship programme, Community Engagement and
Education (C2E), is of the highest quality and benefits hundreds of local children and
adults. Building on this current experience and practice will enable the Trust to manage all
the activities at Valley Woods proficiently and with sensitivity to local needs.
Operating in a bilingual English / Welsh community. This table reflects the bilingual
character of this and the neighbouring local authority areas, showing the percentage of
Welsh speakers:
Local Authority 1991 Census Nos % res pop 2001 Census Nos % res pop
Swansea 28549 13.3 28938 13.4
Neath Port Talbot 23710 17.8 23404 18.0
Carmarthenshire 89221 54.9 84196 50.3
Wales 508000 18.7 582000 20.8
The Penllergare Trust is conscious that it operates within a bilingual community and has
taken steps to introduce a bilingual approach to its work. As part of this project, the
Penllergare Trust will further develop its bilingual policy.
Reflecting these considerations, the following aims for involving people through activities
have been adopted.
1. To share the process of restoration, regeneration and conservation
with people.
Activities are planned and will be heavily promoted to enable people to see and
track the progress of project work whenever it is safe and practically possible. In
addition to encouraging repeat visits, the opportunities for getting more involved
23
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
through volunteering will be promoted. People will also be encouraged to learn
more about the history, culture and nature of Valley Woods as well as the role of the
Penllergare Trust in caring for and managing the site.
2. To encourage more people to share and enjoy Penllergare.
Activities are planned and will be heavily promoted to make a visit enjoyable to a
greater number and a wider range of people, but especially those living locally of all
ages and social and cultural backgrounds. They will inspire individuals to find out
more and to visit more frequently throughout the seasons, to enjoy a good day out
either on their own or with friends and family. In addition, Penllergare will become a
valuable resource for those people who want to know more about activities and
people from the past and Swansea’ heritage such as pottery, coal, science and
natural history and photography. Research will be shared and people will be
encouraged to learn about the wider heritage and gain skills through research,
training and wider educational activities.
3. To lay strong foundations for future sustainability.
Activities that help to foster a sense of shared local ownership, pride and
stewardship will be developed and prioritised along with activities that generate
revenue for the ongoing maintenance and management of Penllergare Valley
Woods, including legacies and lifetime donations.
Priority Target Audiences
Because the sustainability of the project relies so heavily on local involvement, these are
the audiences that will be targeted during the project period.
1. Local Residents within 15 min drive time especially those with time
to give
Activities to engage local residents will help to build local support, pride and a
strong sense of shared ownership. As well as enjoying a valuable local amenity,
more people will be encouraged to get actively involved through volunteering at all
levels from Governance through to clearing the paths. Activities aimed at this group
will focus on revealing the special qualities of Penllergare Valley Woods - its wildlife,
24
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
its history and cultural heritage - as an inspiration and ‘motivator’. The project
provides a major opportunity to draw in this group through special work in progress
tours and open days, walks and talks.
2. Residents within a 30 to 60 min drive time - families and active
people
This is the group likely to visit on a frequent basis and spend money given the
‘product’ on offer, for activities such as family days out; self guided trails, dog
walking, guided walks, and events. They are likely to want to come for at least a
half-day out and enjoy light refreshments from friendly volunteers in the kiosk.
Some may offer to help out on a voluntary basis. Families will be looking for
‘entertainment’ especially during the school holidays.
3. The Friends group and current volunteers
These people have already demonstrated support for Penllergare through their
membership, subscriptions and gifts of time. The role and function of the Friends
group will be developed to act as an active support group, fundraising and raising
the profile of Valley Woods. New roles for volunteers to become involved in the day
to day management of Valley Woods will be explored with and the indispensable
contribution of voluntary action to the project will be recognised in their training and
management.
4. Primary / junior schools
The imaginative ‘Community Education and Engagement’ programme has
generated considerable goodwill both within the schools concerned and within the
wider community (school governing bodies and the local authority). It has helped to
introduce a generation of children to the wonders of Valley Woods and its heritage
and to encourage them to care for it in the future. In addition to the learning
experiences gained by the children, this is a valuable conduit to the wider
community of parents, teachers and friends. It is a vital outreach activity. Activities
linked to the project will be promoted principally to the five immediately local
schools and a wider range of schools if time and resources permit. It is planned to
25
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
develop a more formal collaborative arrangement with the local schools and
volunteers to form the basis of future school activities, including making a small
charge.
Through targeting these audience groups in the early stages, it is anticipated that a good
foundation will be laid for longer term sustainability of both the site and future activities. In
particular, there is an aspiration for Valley Woods with the Walled Gardens to make a
valuable contribution to tourism in south Wales in the future. The foundations developed
during the project period will ensure a strong start.
Overview of Proposed Activities
Developing volunteer and community support through training in
knowledge, techniques and skills
A robust training programme will help to recruit and retain volunteers for carrying
out practical woodland maintenance work; running the kiosk; giving on site guided
walks and tours (see brief attached at Annex 6); giving off site talks and lectures
and, importantly, a range of projects planned as part of the physical works. It is also
planned to trial the establishment of a young people’s forum as a means of
engaging youngsters to take an active role in the generation of ideas, funds, and
activities and also to get involved with future management. Current and potential
new Trustees will be offered training on their roles and responsibilities. The web site
will be developed to promote volunteering including Trustee recruitment.
Facilitating support and advice for ‘The Friends’ in setting up their
own administration and organisational structure
This may involve bringing in a facilitator and / or small groups visiting other groups
to learn from others eg The Friends of Aberdulais Falls; The Friends of Cwmdonkin
Park and Gwirfoddolwyr Llanerchaeron Volunteers.
Providing family-friendly activities and events during the school
holidays and some weekends
26
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
Treasure hunts, self guided trails and some more adventurous activities like
bushcraft workshops will all encourage families from up to 30 min travel time to visit
Valley Woods. These will be supported with appropriate bilingual (Welsh / English)
publicity and materials.
Guided walks
A regular programme of volunteer led introductory and more specialist guided walks
linked initially to the physical project work and developing into areas of interest
around the wildlife, the trees and the designed landscape will encourage repeat
visits.
Development of some initial interpretative material for informal
day visitors
At present the casual visitor gets no real sense of the significance of Valley Woods,
either culturally or in terms of its planting and wildlife. Some basic bilingual (Welsh /
English) interpretation on the Project, provided at the kiosk, the website and/or the
entrances to the woods, will help to develop an ‘identity’ for the woods. A linked
website will provide interpretation using innovative techniques developed in
cooperation with the Royal Commission for the Ancient & Historical Monuments of
Wales.
Development of the programme of activities for schools
Much has been learned from the C2E Community Education and Engagement
programme. Improved facilities (the Woodland Centre) and an increase in education
volunteers will enable this programme to be developed, giving more local children
and their families a sense of involvement in the rejuvenation of Valley Woods.
Older children will be offered challenging activities and accredited training in
conservation. In collaboration with local schools and a training provider it is planned
to develop activities that help to meet the Alternative Curriculum.
Developing income generating activities
Some activities are planned that will help generate revenue after the project phase
to help with ongoing maintenance costs. For instance, a wood turner or similar
27
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
craftsperson will be engaged on a short residency to demonstrate woodland crafts
and run skills workshops, and also to explore opportunities for making Penllergare
provenance items for retail sale.
Meeting the HLF Aims of Learning and Participation
Without doubt, Penllergare Valley Woods and the Walled Gardens are a fantastic learning
resource on the doorstep of a large city. As a priority, the Activity Plan includes
opportunities for volunteers, families and children to gain valuable knowledge and skills
about the natural environment and practical skills from woodland maintenance to public
speaking.
Public participation in Valley Woods is paramount. Activities to increase engagement and
participation are at the heart of the Action plan, from encouraging younger Trustees to
community fundraising.
Management of Activities
Three new full time and two part time project roles are proposed as indicated in grey on
the following chart. Draft staff role profiles are attached at Annex 4.
Project Phase 2011-2014 (post Big Lottery Fund project)
Board of Trustees / Directors (5 rising to 10 )Forum I Friends of Penllergare
II
Project Director (Part time 0.6)
I______________________I______________________
I I I IEstate Manager(f/t)
Activities and Events Organiser (f/t)
Woodland Projects Warden (f/t)
Project Administrator, (Part time 0.3)
I I I _______I____ I I
28
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
I I I I Part time woods keeper
Volunteers Volunteers Volunteers
The Project Director will be recruited as soon as possible after Round 2 approval.
Recruitment to the other project roles will start towards the end of 2011 to avoid duplication
with the current Big Lottery Funded People and Places project. Some planning for
activities will be initiated in this period, though in the main, the activities will get underway
from 2012 onwards.
The Project Director, working to a nominated Trustee / Director, will have principal project
management responsibility including the delivery of this Activity Plan. They will work
closely with the Board of Trustees / Directors in developing the role and capacity of the
Board and other aspects of local representation including the Forum and the Friends of
Penllergare and responsibility for engaging wider community involvement, partnerships
and links with other organisations. The Project Director will be supported by two full time
appointments to deliver the actions detailed in the Action Plan at Chapter 3, ie:
• Activities and Events Organiser. Responsible principally for organising public
activities and events, school activities, communications and visitors and also
coordinating volunteers.
• Woodland Projects Warden. Responsible principally for practical woodland based
activities, including training and some public activities eg Bushcraft, as well as
leading volunteers to complete the project works planned as part of the physical
works.
The project team will be supported by an Estate Manager who will be the overall on-site
operations manager with prime responsibility to act as ‘clerk of works’ for the planned
programme of physical works. The Estate Manager will work closely with the Lead
Consultant in the supervision of contractors engaged on project works while on site and
will also assist with guided tours and other activities from time to time.
External experts will be engaged as required for specific or specialised activities according
to need.
29
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
A first priority will be to recruit volunteers for activities such as administration and volunteer
management. This will be overseen by the Project Director with support from the three
other staff members detailed above. A selection of draft volunteer role profiles is attached
at Annex 5.
Measures of Success and Evaluation
The Project Director has overall responsibility for evaluating the planned activities. An
external consultant will be engaged to lead the process throughout the project, adopting a
formal process such as the nef ‘Proveit!’ methodology. Staff and volunteers will play an
important part in capturing information and assisting throughout, as an activity thourhg
which they can play a part.
The following are identified as key measures of success:
1. The rate and extent to which Valley Woods is adopted by the local
community. This will be measured by a number of indicators;
• The Friends group review their way of working and purposes and establish their
own management committee by the end of 2011
• The Friends group contribute £500 by the end of 2012; £1000 by the end of 2013
and £2000 by the end of 2014
• Five additional Trustees are appointed from the local community by the end of the
project
• By the end of 2012 a management group is firmly established as a sub group of the
Board of Trustees, comprising volunteers and staff working closely together chaired
by a Trustee, accountable to the main Board of Trustees.
• Volunteers administration and coordination is undertaken by a volunteer /
volunteers by mid 2012
• By the time the kiosk is ready to open, there is a full complement of trained
volunteers to run it
30
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
• Adequate numbers of volunteer guides and speakers are recruited and trained to
deliver the planned walks and talks programme
• Two new education volunteers are recruited and trained each year of the project
• Overall volunteer hours increase year on year and targets for contribution to the
project are exceeded
• The range of volunteer tasks broadens year on year, as recorded in the volunteer
records
• Volunteer satisfaction remains high. Measured through an annual volunteer
satisfaction survey and through day to day communications.
2. The number and range of people using the park. Indicators of the measure of
success include
• An increase in the absolute numbers of people using the park, measured principally
by recording numbers from the counters placed at entry points and from data
collected from appropriate activities and from the kiosk
• An increase in the numbers of people travelling from between 15 and 60 minutes
drive time, measured by ongoing surveys facilitated by volunteers in the kiosk and
guides, two more in depth surveys per annum (one in winter and one in summer)
and encouraging people to complete surveys online, using GreenSTAT
methodology. Surveys will be carried out by volunteers
• An increase in the proportion of families using the park, measured by the ongoing
kiosk survey and guides and activity leaders, along with the twice yearly more in
depth surveys.
• From the inception of the linked interpretation website a year-on-year increase in
the number of hits
3. Visitor satisfaction. This will be measured by the kiosk and guide survey and the
twice yearly more in depth seasonal surveys highlighted above along with activity
31
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
feedback reports. The Penllergare Trust will work towards Green Flag status as a measure
of success and will adopt the GreenStat methodology for seeking visitor feedback and
comment.
4. The number and range of people who undertake some form of training
activity. This will be measured through volunteer training records, training activity
records and certificates awarded.
The story that these measures seek to reveal will be formalised over the coming months
and then throughout the project through the use of the nef Proveit! Guidance. This will
ensure that the right information is gathered right from the start and throughout the project
in order to demonstrate the progress made.
Each activity will be evaluated according to its contribution to the above mentioned
measures of success throughout the project and the plan will be adjusted accordingly with
new activities introduced as appropriate.
Sustaining Long Term Benefts
Future sustainability of the benefits will rely on two main factors;
• Success in engaging the local community to adopt the project as their own, from
new and active Trustees to helpers and volunteers.
• Success in generating sustainable revenue from the woods and from fundraising
activities.
By the time the project is complete, it is planned to have assessed the feasibility of setting
up a separate not for profit public interest company to develop sustainable revenue from
enterprises based in Valley Woods. These initially include firewood, timber and Christmas
tree sales and other woodland products, as well as items sold to the public via the kiosk. A
number of other longer term sources of revenue are also being investigated, including
reproductions of historic photographs and exquisite Victorian flower drawings for which
Trustees hold copyright.
With this revenue, including that derived from visitors, fundraising appeals and donations
on-line it is planned to engage a full time estate manager / trust executive officer and part
32
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
time woods keeper to work with the well developed volunteer network to manage the
woods on a day to day basis. As many as possible of the activities planned for the project
will be sustained, though some will need to be sustained through ongoing grants and
fundraising. It is also envisaged that some essential partnerships with other organisations
will have been firmly established in order to bring additional resources, including
assistance in-kind to bear to sustain some of the more socially beneficial outcomes and
opportunities presented by Valley Woods.
Fundraising from every sector of the community, underpinned by a rolling publicity
programme will be crucial for the delivery of the sustained social and community benefits
of Valley Woods; a matter of direct concern of trustees. Local fundraising activities will be a
vitally important component in the future. Through these activities, more local people will
become more involved and develop stronger local ownership, a vital element of future
sustainability.
All the activities will be evaluated as the project progresses and with the benefit of
experience the overall plan will be reviewed annually and the longer term management
and maintenance plan re adjusted.
Further Organisational Development and Sharing the Lessons
After the project, the overall organisation will have developed a more collaborative working
arrangement with the local community with a stronger sense of shared responsibility – the
local community will have really taken Valley Woods and the Walled Gardens to their
heart. There will be a clear succession of responsibilities from those staff, Trustees and
key supporters who wish to ‘retire’. The Trustees, reinforced with additional local members
will assume a more active role, supported by a management sub group, including the
executive manager, with substantial voluntary input and involvement. The organisation
chart at Annex 3 shows the project and post proposals.
Through this arrangement, the organisation will continue to grow in stature and influence
through a strong collaborative working ethic with both local people and like minded and
supportive organisations and partners. Further projects will be developed to further the
essential purposes of the Penllergare Trust as the steward of a highly valued green space
33
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
with all the potential social and personal benefits this can bring. The Penllergare Trust
at Valley Woods aspires to become a model of good practice in
innovative, third sector management of recreational green space.
34
Chapter 2 – Strategic decisions about involving people
Activity Budget Summary
VAT ContingencyEquipment and tools 49510 9902 4951 64363Consultancy 19375 3875 1938 25188Training for staff 1600 320 160 2080Training for volunteers 7880 0 788 8668Travel for staff 970 0 97 1067Producing printed materials 5610 1122 561 7293Other 12200 0 1220 13420
Sub totals 97145 15219 9715 122079Staff costs 125400 12540 137940
Total 222545 15219 22255 260019
35
Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Chapter 3 - Action Plan
See planning chart at Annex 7 for proposed timetable
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Penllergare Team Works
Volunteer open days and taster days
Local residents within 30min drive time with time to spare.University / College students
Skills and knowledgeActive participation
Staff/volunteer timeMarketing through SCVS / web site / word of mouth / local papers / postersInformation leafletTools etc.
Expenses £450 (£50 / session)Print costs (inc translation) £550 total (£110 per session)Tools etc £1250 total
TOTAL £2250
October yr 1; March &October other years – 5 total
40 participants per session10 new volunteers a year av
Attendance recordsVol records
P
Food handling and hygiene training
Volunteers and staff (kiosk)
Skills and knowledge to ensure appropriate standards of public safety.
Woodland Ed CentreStaff and volunteer expenses.Costs of certification (online course)Kiosk equipment
Staff salary; staff and volunteer expenses £210 total (£10 each)Certificates £525 total (£25 each)Kiosk equipment-£20,000
TOTAL £20735
March 2012 ie 3 months before kiosk opens (Jun2012)
20 volunteers and 1 staff trained and pass exam.
Training records.Effective record keeping system in place.No issues reported by public.
L
36
Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Visitor experience training, eg WorldHost
Volunteers and staff
Skills and knowledge to ensure high standards of visitor satisfaction
Woodland Ed CentreStaffExternal trainer
Staff salary.Ext Trainer-£250Staff & volunteer expenses £210 total (£10 each)Certificates (£25 ea) £500 total volunteers; £25 staff
TOTAL £985
March 2012 ie 3 months before kiosk opens (Jun2012)
20 volunteers and 1 staff trained and pass exam.
Training records.Effective record keeping system in place.No issues reported by public.
L
Best practice liaison - Visit to other sites / groups
Friends, members, volunteers and staff
KnowledgeSkillsConfidence
Staff Coach hireVolunteer expenses
Staff salary£400 coach Exp’s £70
TOTAL £470
Spring2012
Friends group to establish their own committee.Friends group become self administeringFriends group contribute net £3k pa by end of project.
The Friends group membership grows.Feedback.Review by staff
P
37
Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Woodland management and maintenance training
Volunteers inc students at secondary schools / HE and FE institutions / unemployedStaff
Skills, knowledge and qualification incl OCN and ASDAN
StaffVolunteer expensesCost of certificatesWork programmeTools and materialsEquipmentFuel and oil
Staff salary.Expenses (£10 per volunteer) - £2280 Certificates £5725 total (£25 per person)Tools and mats £2800 totalPower barrow - £1800Fuel and oil-£1500
TOTAL £14105
6-8 week blocks, throughout the year.
Trainees – 75 trainees in yr 1, 90 in yr 2, 60 in yr 3 (6 months)& 2 staff trained
Records (numbers, hours and certificates awarded)
L
Train the trainer - World Host / Speaking in public / practical woodland skills
StaffVolunteers
SkillsKnowledgeTransferrable qualification
StaffExternal providerWoodland Ed room (or off site)Expenses
Staff salaryTrainer or course fees -£500 (£250 per sessionExpenses - £50
TOTAL £550
2 sessionsMarch 2012Sept 2012
4 people trainedSaves cost in the longer term
Records L
Training in monitoring and surveying
Volunteers and Staff
Skills, knowledge and confidence
Staff / ext trainerWoodland Ed centreVol exp’s
Ext trainer £400 ( £200 per session)Expenses £100
TOTAL £500
Once (people) in October 2011 and once (wildlife) in May 2012
3 staff trained4 volunteers trained
Course feedbackRecords
L
Course in Trusteeship
Current and potential Trustees
Knowledge and skills
External trainer (SCVS)Exp’s
Trainer £400 totalExp’s £100 total
TOTAL £500
May 2013 5 people trained5 new Trustees
Course feedbackRecords
L
38
Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Misc training eg First Aid / H&S / Risk Ass /
Staff and volunteers
Skills for the jobKnowledge
Staff timeExternal trainer (SCVS)Expenses
Fees - £40 / person/event Total - £1600Expenses £300TOTAL £1900
3 events in 2012.2 in 2013
4 staff and 4 volunteers trained.Meet min legal requirements
Records.Successful completion of course.
L
Facilitation for main Forum and young people’s Forum
Forum membersLocal young people
Engagement with their heritage / environmentPersonal skills and experience
FacilitatorWoodland Ed centreStaffExp’s
External facilitator £2250 total (£250/day) Volunteer expenses £550
TOTAL £3300
Main Forum 4/yrBrief and ToR by May 2012Recruit members by Young peoples Forum – 1 in 2011 and then 2/yr
Brief and ToR signed off by Trustees June 20115 members recruited 2012I member becomes a Trustee 2013
Facilitator feedbackRecordsProgress and contributionTrustee feedback
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Presenting PenllergareTraining in speaking in public - to give talks to groups, on and offsite
VolunteersStaff
Skills, knowledge and confidence to give a talk
Woodland centre.Ext trainer.Volunteer expensesBriefing notes on a range of subjectsPrinted material
Staff salary.Trainer £400Expenses £70 (£15 per session +£40 staff)Printing-£120
TOTAL £590
Briefing notes by Nov 20112 training events – Jan 2012 & Sept 2012
3 new volunteers trained at each event & 2 staff ie 8 in all.Trainees have skills and confidence to deliver an effective talk.
Records for each event.Trainee feedbackAudience feedback.
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Training on how to plan and run guided tours for all abilities and audiences
VolunteersStaff
Skills, knowledge and confidence to run a guided tour
Woodland centre.Staff Ext trainer.Volunteer expenses.BriefCourse modulePrinted material
Staff salary.Trainer £600Volunteer expenses £75 +£40 staffPrinting £225
TOTAL £940
2 training events – March 2012 & May 2012.Refresher sessions as needed
5 new volunteers trained at each event ie 10 in all.Trainees are confident to lead tours.
Records for each event.Trainee feedback.Visitor feedback.
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Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Evaluation event – first volunteer open/taster day with walks festival + ‘Dressing the Woods’
Local residents within 30min drive time
Better understanding of the heritage on the doorstep.Enjoyable outdoor experienceActive experience
Staff.Volunteers Posters.Volunteer expenses.Walk briefing notesPortable induction hearing loop systemMarketing through SCVS / web site / word of mouth / local papers / postersInformation leafletMaterials to dress the woods etc.Refreshments
Volunteer expenses £50 Print costs (inc translation) £200 totalRefreshments £300Materials £350
TOTAL £900
April 2012 Measure of where PT is at interim stage of Project 500 people attend
Visitor feedback forms, volunteer number records
Introductory guided walks – public (donations)
Local residents within 15 min drive time
Better understanding of the heritage on the doorstep.Enjoyable outdoor experience
Staff.Volunteers (2 per walk).Posters.Volunteer exp’s.Leaflets / flyers / postersWalk briefing notesPortable induction hearing loop system
Staff salaryPrint costs £150 (£50 pa)expenses £255 (£15 per walk)3 portable hearing loops-£450 total
TOTAL £855
4 in 2012, 6 in 2013, 7 in 2014
7 walks pa by end of project,4 delivered by vols.210 people pa (30/walk)£500 donations received pa.90% rate the walk as very enjoyable.5 new vols pa.
Attendance records.Visitor feedback sheets.Staff observational visits of vols.
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Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Craft in the Woods & skills workshops
Active people within 30 min drive time.
Increased skills and knowledge
StaffWoodland centreTutors (external)Course materialPosters/flyersRefreshments (by vols)
Staff salary£1200 tutor fees (£200/event)£450 course material (£150 pa
TOTAL £1650
2 per year on different subjects each time or summer residency each year
6 events total15 people per event.Event fees cover refreshment costs only.
RecordsFeedback questionnaire90% rate event as very enjoyable
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Off site talks Local clubs, groups and societies
Increased awareness of local heritage and amenities
Staff.VolunteersDigi projectorScreenVol exp’sPhotosBriefing notes
Staff salaryStaff and volunteer expenses -£250 Projector £800 Screen -£200
TOTAL £1250
10 per annum on a reactive basis
10 talks delivered pa7 delivered by vols.Total audience 300£200pa donations.100% groups rate the talk as very enjoyable.50% groups book a guided walk.
Records.Feedback surveys.
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Introductory guided walks – by arrangement (charged)
Clubs, groups and societies.
Better understanding of the heritage of PVW.Enjoyable outdoor experience
Staff. Volunteers (2 per walk). Volunteer exp’s. Leaflets. Walk briefing notes
Staff salaryVolunteer expenses - £450 Leaflet print costs inc elsewhere.
TOTAL £450
5 walks pa (reactive) – generally arranged after a talk to the group.
5 walks pa4 delivered by vols.150 people pa (30/walk)£300 pa (£2/hd)90% rate the walk as very enjoyable
Attendance records.Visitor feedback sheets.Staff observational visits of vols
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Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Special on- site talks.Specific subjects - natural and cultural heritage
Residents within 30 min drive time/ Friends
Increased knowledge of the heritage generally.Increased awareness of PVW.More enjoyment from a visit
Invited speakersStaffVolunteersExp’sObservatoryWoodland Ed CentreFree promotion in S Wales Evening PostLeaflets and ad flyers / posters
Staff salarySpeakers costs £600 (£100/event )Volunteer expenses - £150 total (£50 pa)Print costs £150 (£50 pa)Observatory simulation-(£9,000 Magic Planet,)
TOTAL £9900
October/ February each year
6 talks total150 people total3 new vols pa£400 donations/ charges pa90% rate the talk as very enjoyable
RecordsFeedback surveys
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Themed study weekend -subjects identified in Conservation Plan
Residents within a 30 min drive time
Increased knowledge about the heritage.More enjoyment from a visit
Invited expertsStaffWoodland centreHandoutsRefreshments (by vols)
Staff salaryExpert - £400 (£200/day) £30 expensesRefreshment costs covered by charge£25 print costs
TOTAL £455
Pilot in April 2014
20 people, 1 new vol recruited.
RecordsFeedback questionnaire90% rate event as very enjoyable.
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Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Photo competitions
Local residents within 30min drive time
Local people better understand their heritagePublication of winning photos as post cards
Newspaper advertorial / website / word of mouth/postersEntrance fee £5 (£2 for children)Woodland Centre exhibitionVolunteers
Staff/volunteer time for judging/uploading to websiteExhibition display costs £200 Volunteer expenses £90 (£30/event)Printing postcards £600
TOTAL £890
Annually April - October3 events total
100 additional visitors by end of ProjectLocal community increase ‘ownership’ of Valley Woods as their heritage. £400 pa income
Number of entries to the competition
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Family discovery trail
Families within 30min drive time
Families gain more understanding of their heritage
Booklet available at the kiosk – staff/volunteers to research and writeVolunteers
Staff salary.Volunteer expenses £100Printing costs £900 total
TOTAL £1000
April - September
Families have very enjoyable visit (and want to return) £400 pa income from sale of trails @£2300 additional visitors
200 trails pa sold by end of ProjectVisitor Feedback to kiosk staff
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Holiday story telling
Local families Families gain more understanding of their heritageFun day out
Story tellerWoodland Centre (weather dependent)Local newspapers/posters/flyers/web
Printing costs £100 (£50 pa)Story teller £800 (£400 pa), volunteer expenses £100 (£50 pa)
TOTAL £1000
Summer holidayAutumn half term – 2012 & 2013
250 additional visitors £160 pa income @ £2 per head
80 participants paVisitor feedback to kiosk staff
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Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Family treasure hunt / geocaching
Families within 30min drive time
Increased knowledge about their heritage
On site posters / website / local papersCooperation with local Geocaching enthusiasts.Design and proof of material
GPS handsets (5 @ £60) £300 total in 2013Printing costs £50 Development of material - £100Volunteer expenses £100
TOTAL £550
Daily from kiosk
100 additional visitors pa£250 pa income from hire charge by end of Project
100 participants pa by end of Project.Visitor feedback to kiosk staffFeedback on geocaching websites
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Watch the birdie Victorian-themed weekend to celebrate and evaluate end of project
Families within 30min drive time
Increased understanding of their social history Enjoyable day out
MarqueeCostumes/propsPhotographerStaff/volunteersCarriage ridesOn site posters / website / local papersObservatory
Marquee hire (40’ x 40’) £1500 Costumes/props £300, Photographer £300, Carriage rides £800,Staff and volunteer expenses £160 Print costs £50
TOTAL £3110
June 2014 300 people attend. Very enjoyable visit 90% rating2 addn’l volunteers
Feedback questionnaireRecordsFollow up evaluation to start event
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Seasonal Events (arranged by Friends)
Friends gp members & local people
Local involvement / sense of ‘ownership’Enjoyable day out
Staff timeLanternsEaster eggsMarketing
Costs covered by Friends. Publication costs only – say £200
TOTAL £200
3 pa: eg Friends’ Hallowe’en lantern trail; fungus foray; Easter treasure trail
10 new Friends pa£300 income pa from donations500 participants pa
£ targets metRecordsFeedback - questionnaires
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Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Bushcraft days (camp fires/wigwams /huts/survival techniques)
Local families Increasing skills and knowledge
Staff/volunteersSchools / Eve Post / Community organisers /word of mouth / posters
Staff timeFood (covered)Materials (ditto)Print costs £40 (£20 per session)Staff and volunteer expenses £160 (£30 per session)
TOTAL £200
June 2013, 2014
Reduced levels of vandalism / anti social behaviour £200 income (£10 per person)
20 participantsFeedback questionnaire90% rate event as very enjoyable
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Interpretation – works in progress and natural and cultural heritage. Newsletters. Interpretation Boards and waymarkers
Local residents within 30min drive timeHeritage visitor
Local people better understand their heritageKnowledge and understanding
Staff/volunteersText for themed guided and self guided walks at key points in the projectDevelopment of heritage trailEvening Post/website/posters
Staff salaryStaff and volunteer expenses £200 totalDesign work £900Print costs £2000Construction and publication £10000 Waymarkers £500
TOTAL £13600
Leaflet by Sept 2011Mobile panels by Feb 2012 3 Panels by July 2013Waymarkers by 2014
Timetable metWithin budget Quality right
Feedback questionnaire90% rate as very enjoyable
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Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Guided hard hat walks - key stages in the restoration
Local residents within 30min drive time
Local people better understand their heritage
Staff / volunteersPPE (hard hats)Evening Post/website/posters
Staff salaryVolunteer expenses £200 (£20 per session)PPE £150; print costs £50
TOTAL £400
10 sessions according to works schedule
20 per session ie 200 people total
RecordsFeedback
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Web Site development inc ancillary site for e interpretation and trails
Local residents within 30min drive timeLocal schoolsFriends and visitors from afarHeritage visitorsDisabled people
Increased understanding of project and cultural historyPrompt to make a visitGet more out of a visit – better informedKeeping in touch
External webmasterStaff/volunteer
Staff timeVolunteer expenses £200 (£50 pa) to agree text and illustrations; add photo gallery, develop and maintain linksDesigner £500e-trails £500
TOTAL £1200
Ongoing
E-trails setup by June 2013
Increased number of hits on website200 hits pa for e trails
Counter and interactive feature included on website
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Active Evaluation - visitors and wildlife
Volunteers Increased understanding of what visitors want to see and do to get more out of a visit. Understand wildlife trends and impact of project.
VolunteersStaff time for analysisExternal consultant
Volunteer expenses £900Consultant £3000
TOTAL £3900
Ongoing following training
10 Volunteers help on a regular basis. Accurate records of visitor satisfaction and behaviour. Inventory of wildlife
Records of volunteer nos.Statistically reliable surveys carried out.Feedback from vols
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Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Wild for Woods – tailored outdoor programme for school groups
Local primary schools
Local children learn about their heritage
Staff/volunteersPrinted material
Staff timeVolunteer expenses £900 (£300 pa)Print costs £600
TOTAL £1500
10 class visits pa in term time
300 children visit4 in school workshops90% rate days as enjoyableTeachers want to return
Schools feedback questionnaire
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Schools art competition – Annual competition to engage local school children
Local Primary schools
Children better understand their heritage (4)
Staff – judging and uploading to web siteWoodland Ed Centre exhibitionPosters in schools/word of mouth
Prizes £450 (£150 pa)Print costs £150 (£50 pa)Staff salary Exhibition costs £60 (shared with photo competition)
TOTAL £660
Annually, May-June
300 additional visitors (children / teachers and parents) 90% rate competition as successful
Schools feedback questionnaire
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Chapter 3 – Action Plan
Activity: Detailed description
Audience(s) Benefits for People
Resources Costs in project budget
Timetable Targets and measures of success
Methods of evaluation
Meeting HLF aims
Partnership Projects DevelopmentEnrichment days (Alternative curriculum – with eg Groundwork or Forest Schools)
Schools and CollegesYoung people at risk of - NEETS
MotivationalSkills and knowledgePractical exp
Contributory / partnership fundingWoodland Ed CentreStaffVolunteers
Staff salaryPartnership contribution £2000 paVolunteer expenses £50 pa
TOTAL £4100
Project confirmed July 2011.Project runs from October 2011 to October 2013
200 young people participate in 1st yr500 people participate in 2nd yr£4k partnership funds secured.Continuation funds are secured by Aug 2013
RecordsFeedback
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Walking for Health (with CCS, Sports Council or Coed Lleol)
Local people and referrals from health services
Healthier lifestyle
StaffVolunteersContributory / partnership funding
Staff salaryPartnership contribution £1500 paExp’s £50 pa
TOTAL £3100
Project confirmed July 2011.Project runs from October 2011 to October 2013
Weekly walks established by Sept 2011.Av 10 people per walk through year£3k partnership funds secured.Continuation funds are secured by August 2013
RecordsFeedback
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Annex 1
Annex 1- Aims of the Community Education and Engagement Programme
To provide an innovative and sustainable stewardship of a shared cultural heritage by
providing:
• Informal recreation and enjoyment of the scenery, woodlands and wildlife,
particularly relevant for people lacking easy access to the countryside and needing
therapeutic exercise: where people feel safe and children can have adventures;
• Interpretation and education for all ages and backgrounds on the history and
significance of Penllergare; its people, ecology, woodlands and setting;
• Opportunities for training, voluntary activities and employment; and,
Through managed diversity a positive contribution to the conservation of the
natural environment.
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Annex 3
Annex 3 - Penllergare Valley Woods HLF Project - Overall Organisation and Responsibilities
Project Phase 2011-1014 (post Big Lottery Fund project)
Board of Trustees / Directors (5no rising to 10 no)Forum I Friends of Penllergare
II
Project Director (part time 0.6)
I______________________I______________________
I I I IEstate Manager / (f/t)
Activities and Events Organiser (f/t)
Woodland Projects warden (f/t)
Project FinanceAdministrator, (part time 0.3)
I I I _______I____ I I I I I I Part time woods keeper
Volunteers Volunteers Volunteers
Post Project Phase 2014 onwards
Board of Trustees / Directors (10 no min) I Friends of Penllergare
II
Executive / Estate Manager (f/t)
I ___________ I______________
I I IPart time woods keeper
Volunteer, volunteer organiser
volunteers
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Annex 4
Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust
Role Profile for the post of
PROJECT DIRECTOR (P/T)
ACCOUNTABLE TO: Penllergare Trust Board of Trustees (nominated Trustee)
LOCATION: Penllergare Valley Woods
RESPONSIBLE FOR: All staff and volunteers
JOB SUMMARY
Overall management and successful delivery of the Heritage Lottery Funded Parks for People project at Penllergare Valley Woods, in accordance with Trust policies, plans and procedures. The Project Director will also provide support for the Board of Trustees / Directors as Company Secretary.
Operating at the heart of the project, he/she will also make Valley Woods a place where it is a pleasure to visit and rewarding to work.
KEY RESULT AREAS
Appointment, Management and Development of Staff
• Recruit all project staff in accordance with employment best practice and create a work environment which fosters individual commitment, enthusiasm and confidence.
• Ensure the optimum deployment of all staff, and encourage the continued occupational development of staff members.
• By example encourage teamwork and collaborative action whilst emphasising the importance of individual responsibility and accountability.
• Foster open and effective communication on work-related issues amongst staff.
Development of Volunteering and Management of Volunteers
• Lead the strategy to develop volunteering as a key priority for the future management of Penllergare Valley Woods.
• Ensure optimum deployment of volunteers.• Encourage teamwork and collaborative action amongst volunteers.• Foster open and effective communication amongst volunteers and between staff and
volunteers.
Financial Management
• Establish, manage and maintain effective project financial systems and records in accordance with HLF and other funding bodies’ requirements.
• Maintain tight financial control of all non project expenditure.• Prepare and manage annual budgets for income and expenditure.
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Annex 4
• Maximise revenue generation from Valley Woods compatible with the purposes, aims and objectives of the Penllergare Trust.
Manage External Consultants
• Appoint and manage all external consultants.
Care and Maintenance
• Ensure that all aspects of the Valley Woods are subject to appropriate care and presentation.• Ensure that the terms of the leases are adhered to. • Ensure that historic and archaeological features and all aspects of the natural environment are
appropriately protected and managed.
Public Relations and Marketing
• Act as the first point of contact for press and the media.• Promote Penllergare Valley Woods as a place to support and visit.
Compliance Management
• Ensure practicable and reasonable compliance with applicable statutes, regulations, and directives regarding health and safety, employment, environmental management, fire, insurance, accounting and charity law.
Relationship Management
• Ensure effective communications resulting in a relationship of trust and confidence with the Heritage Lottery Fund and other grant aiding bodies.
• Working through the nominated Trustee, regularly report to the Trustees / Board of Directors of the Penllergare Trust to build mutual support and collaboration.
• Support the Trustees / Board of Directors to establish and maintain excellent relationships with local communities, including the Friends of Penllergare, the Valley Woods Forum, resident populations and their representatives, local schools, colleges and Universities.
• Sustain and develop mutually beneficial relationships with the Swansea Council for Voluntary Services and the City and County of Swansea.
• Develop new relationships with other groups, individuals and organisations that benefit Penllergare Valley Woods
Governance Development and Support
• Support the Trustees in developing the Board of Trustees / Directors to secure greater local representation and involvement.
• Ensure that the requirements of company and charity law are fulfilled on behalf of the Board of Trustees / Directors.
KNOWLEDGE • A recognised qualification and tangible achievement in either the management of historic and
cultural landscapes, parks or gardens - or woodlands, horticulture and wildlife - with working experience of the other fields
• In relation to other such historic parks and gardens a keen interest and understanding of the aesthetic and cultural, conservation and access dimensions of management practice.
SKILLSDemonstrable capabilities in:
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Annex 4
• Practical innovation in a complex project, delivering within budgets and deadlines• The management of a property regularly open to the public• Organisation and motivation of teams and individuals through leadership by example • Contract management, involving restricted funds and including public and Lottery funds• Management of project accounts, including forecasting and cash-flows • Excellent communication, presentation and reporting skills – oral, written and IT - to all age
levels and capabilities• Self-motivation, accountability and administrative self-sufficiency• Professional development, including liaison with peer organisations and managers• Operating IT systems, preferably including GIS databases• Communication in Welsh (or readiness to learn)
EXPERIENCE• Managing a project of similar calibre, including the leadership of a multi-tasking team• Community engagement and participation in a sustainable and evolving regeneration project • Working and empathising with the general public, volunteers and trainees in a similar context,
regardless of backgrounds and approaches • Voluntary organisations, preferably including being a volunteer• Cooperating confidently with the media to mutual benefit.
THE PROJECT
The Valley Woods project aims to protect, conserve, restore, regenerate and maintain Penllergare, it being an historically and culturally important component of South Wales heritage, with community involvement at its heart. Public access and enjoyment, education and training, will be balanced with protection and enhancement of the historic design and fabric, and an increasing diversity of species and habitats.
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Annex 4
Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust
Role Profile for the post of
ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS ORGANISER (F/T)
ACCOUNTABLE TO: Project Director
LOCATION: Penllergare Valley Woods
RESPONSIBLE FOR: Assigned Volunteers
JOB SUMMARY
Operating as part of a team, the Activities and Events Organiser has overall delegated responsibility for delivering the Activity Plan including organising all public activities, visitor services and volunteering.
KEY RESULT AREAS
Activity Planning and Management
• Attend project meetings as a member of the project team as required.• Organise and coordinate all activities in accordance with the Activity Plan to ensure successful
delivery.• Oversee the Woodland Projects Warden in the delivery of non public woodland based activities
and also some woodland based public activities eg Bushcraft days.
Organisation of Volunteers
• Operational implementation of the volunteering policy.• Lead on the recruitment, induction and overall management of volunteers. • Encourage teamwork and collaborative action amongst staff and volunteers.• Foster open and effective communication amongst volunteers and between staff and
volunteers.• Develop and organise voluntary rotas for the kiosk.
Administration
• Keep records in accordance with the outline project plan for monitoring and evaluation.• Arrange surveys as required.
Financial Management
• Manage assigned budgets.• Maintain tight financial control and ensure value for money.• Procure materials, tools and equipment.• Maintain financial records.• Assist with projects to generate additional revenue for Valley Woods.
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Annex 4
Relationships Management, Publicity and Marketing
• Arrange a programme of media information releases to promote the project, the benefits of Valley Woods and the value of volunteering.
• Arrange and manage media visits as required.• Promote Penllergare Valley Woods as a place to support and visit.• Take guided tours and speak in public from time to time.• Ensure good communications with the Friends of Penllergare• Ensure good local community relations
Compliance Management
• Maintain safe systems of work including appropriate records.• Ensure management of Kiosk meets requirements of Environmental Health legislation.
KNOWLEDGE Local areaGood general education
SKILLSMotivating volunteers and staffHighly organised and good organisational skillsCreativeExcellent verbal communicatorPatienceTeam workingSpeaking to groups, in public and to the media
EXPERIENCEOrganising events and / or other activitiesEducational Managing volunteersMarketingOrganising rotasDealing with the public
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Annex 4
Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust
Role Profile for the post of
WOODLAND PROJECTS WARDEN (F/T)
ACCOUNTABLE TO: Project Director
LOCATION: Penllergare Valley Woods
RESPONSIBLE FOR: Assigned Volunteers
JOB SUMMARY
Operating as part of a team, the Woodland Projects Warden will have overall delegated responsibility for the planning and effective implementation of those projects planned to be undertaken by volunteers and to assist in the delivery of woodland based activities including training activities.
KEY RESULT AREAS
Planning and Management
• Attend project meetings as a member of the project team as required.• In accordance with the Activity Plan and in close collaboration with the Activities and Events
Organiser, plan and manage non public activities to ensure successful delivery.• Take lead role for all land based training including practical instruction and supervision and
coordination with any external trainers. • Undertake practical woodland and estate management tasks
Management and Organisation of Volunteers
• Assist with the recruitment, induction and training of volunteers, especially those specifically engaged on woodland and access projects and activities.
• Organise and supervise volunteers working on woodland and access projects and maintenance.
• Encourage teamwork and collaborative action amongst volunteers.• Foster open and effective communication amongst volunteers and between staff and
volunteers.
Administration
• Keep records as required.• Arrange surveys as required.
Financial Management
• Manage assigned budgets.• Maintain tight financial control and ensure value for money.
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Annex 4
• Procure materials, tools and equipment.• Maintain financial records.• Assist with projects to generate additional revenue for Valley Woods.
Publicity and Marketing
• Assist with the programme of media information releases to promote the project, the benefits of Valley Woods and the value of volunteering.
• Assist with the arrangements and management of media visits as required.• Assist with the promotion of Penllergare Valley Woods as a place to support and visit.• Take guided tours and speak in public from time to time.
Compliance Management
• Maintain safe systems of work including appropriate records.
KNOWLEDGE Woodlands / nature conservation / ecosystemsDegree or equivalent – Countryside management
SKILLSExcellent people / interpersonal skillsChainsaw operationPractical countryside skillsHealth and Safety management inc risk assessment
EXPERIENCEPractical woodland / countryside managementWorking with volunteers
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Annex 4
Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust
Role Profile for the post of
ESTATE MANAGER (F/T)
ACCOUNTABLE TO: Project Director
LOCATION: Penllergare Valley Woods
RESPONSIBLE FOR: As part of the Project Team, assigned Volunteers and part time Woodskeeper and other woodland based seasonal staff
JOB SUMMARY
Operating as part of a team, the Estate Manager prime responsibility is to act as the key link between the Lead Consultant and project contractors to ensure timely and value for money outcomes relating to the planned physical project works and contracts ie acting in a clerk of the works role. The role also includes responsibility for the management of all day to day operations in Valley Woods.
KEY RESULT AREAS
Planning
• Attend project and contract meetings as a member of the project team as required.• Plan procurements to ensure materials and resources are available for the timely completion of
projects and contracts.• Deal with practical issues arising in the contractor procurement process, including surveys, site
preparation and monitoring.
Contract and Projects Management
• Supervise contractors whilst on site for the successful delivery of projects, under the direction of and in close consultation with the lead consultant.
• Monitor and report progress to the lead consultant and the Project Director as required.• Support the Woodland Projects Warden in the organisation and delivery of the projects planned
to be undertaken by volunteers. • Ensure compliance with contract terms and conditions and safe systems of work.• Deal with issues quickly and efficiently as they arise to avoid delays and additional expense.• Keep records as instructed
Staff and Volunteers
• Assist with the recruitment, induction, training and management of volunteers. • Supervise the part time Woodskeeper• Encourage teamwork and collaborative action amongst staff and volunteers.• Foster open and effective communication amongst volunteers and between staff and
volunteers.
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Annex 4
Financial Management
• Manage assigned project budgets.• Maintain tight financial control and ensure value for money.• Procure materials, tools and equipment.• Maintain financial records.• Assist with projects to generate additional revenue for Valley Woods.• Prepare annual income and expenditure budgets for non project work.
Care and Maintenance
• Assist in ensuring that all aspects of the Valley Woods are subject to appropriate care and presentation.
• Ensure that historic and archaeological features and all aspects of the natural environment are appropriately protected and managed.
Public and Local Relations and Marketing
• Assist with press and media visits as required, including interviews with TV and radio. • Assist in the promotion of Penllergare Valley Woods as a place to support and visit.• Take guided tours and speak in public from time to time.• Sponsor the Cadle Angling Club
Compliance Management
• Designated responsibility for the implementation of the Trust’s Health & Safety policy for all site activities.
KNOWLEDGE • Legal status of contracts• Landscapes and ecosystems• Historic structures and the historic environment
SKILLS• Excellent verbal and written communication skills• Computer skills including e mails, word processing and spreadsheets.• Excellent interpersonal skills• Speaking in public and to the media• Taking decisions• Assertiveness• Team working• Excellent organisational skills
EXPERIENCEContract Management, preferably built and natural heritage contracts• Managing volunteers• Estate / Countryside / Woodland / Heritage management• HLF projects
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Annex 4
Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust
Role Profile for the post of
Project Finance Administrator (p/t)
ACCOUNTABLE TO: Project Director
LOCATION: Penllergare Valley Woods
JOB SUMMARY
Operating as part of a team, the Project Administrator will maintain financial records including a commitment system and prepare and submit grant claims.
KEY RESULT AREAS
Financial records
• Attend project and contract meetings as a member of the project team as required.• Set up and maintain a financial monitoring and records scheme for all project income and
expenditure in accordance with grant funders’ requirements.• Set up and maintain a financial commitments scheme.• Reconcile actual income and expenditure with the bank statements on a monthly basis.• Monitor cash flow and alert the project Director of any significant deviation from the agreed
financial plan
Grant Claims
• Prepare and submit grant claims with all back up information and records to the Heritage Lottery Fund and other funders in accordance with their requirements.
• Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with grant bodies and any project monitors.
Reporting• Submit monthly reports to the Project Director of actual expenditure and commitments against
the agreed spend profile.
Health and safety
• Observe and support the health and safety Policy of the Penllergare trust.• Ensure safe working practices.
KNOWLEDGE
• Financial record keeping• Heritage Lottery Fund and other funding bodies grant requirements• Accounting systems
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Annex 4
SKILLS
• Great dexterity with numbers and figures• Use of computer spreadsheets• Good with people
EXPERIENCE
• HLF project grant claims• European projects grant claims• Book keeping
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Annex 5
Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust ______________________________________________________
Volunteer Role DescriptionVolunteering Co-ordinator
______________________________________________________What is a Volunteering Co-ordinator?The Penllergare Trust has dozens of volunteers carrying out a wide variety of roles in and around
Penllergare Valley Woods. To help ensure that all our volunteers are properly managed and
supported, Volunteering Co-ordinators play an important role in assisting with the co-ordination of
voluntary activity.
What’s in it for you?
• Becoming part of a friendly and dedicated team• Meeting people from all walks of life and making new friends• Improving your communication and organisation skills • Supporting other volunteers to carry out their roles What’s involved?
• Planning, developing, co-ordinating, monitoring and ensuring the recruitment and organisation of volunteers is consistent with the needs of the property
• Encouraging the involvement of people from local communities and of all ages and backgrounds in the work and aims of the Trust
• Devising, and continuously reviewing, an achievable strategy for voluntary activity
• Liaising with Trustees and staff to identify activities suitable for volunteers to perform; assisting in the preparation of volunteer role descriptions; identifying new recruitment sources of volunteers within the local community and promoting voluntary opportunities within these; and assisting in the selection of volunteers
• Demonstrating best practice in relation to the management, training, support and acknowledgement of volunteers; and assisting in the induction of volunteers and the provision of other necessary training, as and when appropriate
• Co-ordinating the maintenance of records relating to volunteers and their activities, including the preparation and monitoring of duty rotas, the checking of expenses claims and the production of summarised information relating to hours worked in the format set by staff
• Managing volunteers involved in specific ad hoc projects, such as public events
• Promoting volunteering by means of advertisements, talks, posters, leaflets and media coverage; and investigating funding opportunities from external sources and potential awards for volunteering and community work
• Establishing and consolidating links with the local community in which volunteers act as ambassadors for the Penllergare Trust; and ensuring that volunteers have sight of relevant Trust information and are kept aware of all appropriate new developments
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• Contributing towards the production of any staff/volunteer newsletter
• Assisting in the arrangement of meetings, workshops and social activities for volunteers
• Assisting in the preparation and management of the volunteer expenses budget; and advising on and implementing a consistent policy on the reimbursement of expenses
• Becoming familiar with and then following the Penllergare Trust’s Health and Safety Policy at all times
• Giving any other appropriate assistance as may be reasonably requested
This role will suit people who… have good organisation, communication and interpersonal skills.
About the Penllergare Trust
The Penllergare Trust is a registered charity and is completely independent of the local authority and of Government. We rely for income on donations and legacies, and money raised from our activities and commercial operations. We are supported by a Friends group and many volunteers without whom we simply could not manage. We protect and open to the public Penllergare Valley Woods, a valuable community amenity and asset for the whole of Swansea and beyond.
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Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust ________________________________________________________________________
Volunteer Role DescriptionWoodland Volunteer
________________________________________________________________________
What is a Woodland Volunteer?Woodland Volunteers are led by the Woodland Projects Warden for Penllergare Valley Woods. Objectives are focussed on improving the woods and public access and appreciation and restoring the heritage features in accordance with a major project part funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
What’s in it for you?
• Learn new outdoor practical skills• Gain an understanding of how habitats are managed• Become part of a friendly and dedicated team• Improve your communication skills• Getting your hands dirty and enjoying the great outdoors
What’s involved?
• Scrub clearance• Coppicing and tree felling• Path maintenance• Fencing and gate maintenance• Dry stone walling• Litter clearing• Being a friendly face for visitors to Valley Woods and answering any questions they may
have• Becoming familiar with and then following the Penllergare Trust’s Health and Safety Policy
at all times• Giving any other appropriate assistance as may be reasonably requested
This role will suit people who…
• Enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions• Work well as part of a team• Have an appreciation and enthusiasm for the outdoors and green space• Are prepared to undertake physical work
About the Penllergare Trust
The Penllergare Trust is a registered charity and is completely independent of the local authority and of Government. We rely for income on donations and legacies, and money raised from our activities and commercial operations. We are supported by a Friends group and many volunteers without whom we simply could not manage. We protect and open to the public Penllergare Valley Woods, a valuable community amenity and asset for the whole of Swansea and beyond.
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Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust
Volunteer Role DescriptionTour Guide
________________________________________________________________________
What is a Tour Guide?Tour Guides have a vital role to play in delivering inspiring and enjoyable tours, helping groups to learn more about the place they are visiting. Tour Guides also help to protect the health and safety of visitors, and play a part in safeguarding Valley Woods and its assets.
What’s in it for you?
• Becoming part of a friendly and dedicated team• Meeting people from all walks of life and making new friends• Improving your communication skills • Enjoying new experiences and learning something new every day
What’s involved?
• Helping visitors to discover more by telling stories and anecdotes relevant to the property, its theme and history• Adapting tours as necessary to meet the needs of different audiences, including any access and inclusion requirements they may have• Attending Tour Guide training and workshops• Participating in peer support and evaluation of other Tour Guides• Learning about Penllergare Valley Woods as a whole• Following security procedures to prevent theft or damage • Being responsible for the evacuation of visitors in an emergenc• Becoming familiar with and then following the Penllergare Trust’s Health and Safety Policy at all times• Giving any other appropriate assistance as may be reasonably requested
This role will suit people who… have an enthusiastic and friendly manner, are confident in talking to groups of people, have good time management skills and are keen to learn.
About the Penllergare Trust
The Penllergare Trust is a registered charity and is completely independent of the local authority and of Government. We rely for income on donations and legacies, and money raised from our activities and commercial operations. We are supported by a Friends group and many volunteers without whom we simply could not manage. We protect and open to the public Penllergare Valley Woods, a valuable community amenity and asset for the whole of Swansea and beyond.
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Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust ________________________________________________________________________
Volunteer Role DescriptionResearcher
________________________________________________________________________
What is a Researcher?Researchers help to uncover stories of Penllergare Valley Woods, so that they can be used to help visitors get more out of their time with us. They discover facts and figures about the family. They look into John Dillwyn Llewellyn’s interests in photography, astronomy, landscape design and scientific discovery. They look into the wildlife and other natural features of the woods. They help to fit Penllergare into the bigger picture of the industrial past of Swansea. Research can cover everything from building on the excellent research already undertaken and published in Echoes from Valley Woods to burrowing into document boxes at the National Archives. Historical research is always like trying to do a jigsaw without all the pieces. What’s in it for you?
• Becoming part of a friendly and dedicated team• Meeting people from all walks of life and making new friends• Satisfying your thirst for knowledge and expanding your understanding of your local area• Improving your communication and researching skills • Enjoying new experiences and learning something new every day• Access to archives on Penllergare
What’s involved?
• Understanding what is currently known about Penllergare and helping to identify the gaps in knowledge
• Researching on the internet, in libraries and archives for information on subjects agreed with Activities and Events Organiser
• Keeping accurate records of what you look at, what you find and where you find it
• Making the information available to the Activities and Events Organiser for archiving and for use in interpretation of Penllergare Valley Woods
• Working in compliance with the Penllergare Trust’s Health and Safety Policy at all times
This role will suit people who… enjoy historical detective work. You will need to be organised, meticulous and fascinated by Penllergare’s past and its natural and wildlife features today.
About Penllergare
The Penllergare Trust is a registered charity and is completely independent of the local authority and of Government. We rely for income on donations and legacies, and money raised from our activities and commercial operations. We are supported by a Friends group and many volunteers without whom we simply could not manage. We protect and open to the public Penllergare Valley Woods, a valuable community amenity and asset for the whole of Swansea and beyond.
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Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust
Volunteer Role DescriptionKiosk Assistant
________________________________________________________________________
What is a Kiosk Assistant?Kiosk Assistants have a vital role to play in welcoming visitors to Penllergare Valley Woods and generating much needed revenue to support ongoing management and public activities. They assist in making and serving light refreshments and help visitors to learn more about Valley Woods. Kiosk Assistants also help to protect the health and safety of visitors, and play a part in safeguarding Valley Woods and its assets.
What’s in it for you?
• Becoming part of a friendly and dedicated team• Meeting people from all walks of life and making new friends• Improving your communication skills • Enjoying new experiences and learning something new every day
What’s involved?
• Helping to prepare and serve light refreshments to visitors in the newly built kiosk. • Selling souvenirs, gifts and other shop items to visitors.• Managing stock, reordering, taking deliveries and restocking as required.
• Helping as necessary to meet the needs of different audiences, including any access and inclusion requirements they may have• Attending Food Hygiene and other training and workshops
• Learning about Penllergare Valley Woods as a whole and helping our visitors to learn more about the nature and history of Valley Woods
• Following security procedures to prevent theft or damage • Being responsible for the evacuation of visitors in an emergency• Becoming familiar with and then following the Penllergare Trust’s Health and Safety Policy at all times• Giving any other appropriate assistance as may be reasonably requested
This role will suit people who… have an enthusiastic and friendly manner, are confident in serving and talking to individuals and groups of people, have good time management skills and are keen to learn.
About the Penllergare TrustThe Penllergare Trust is a registered charity and is completely independent of the local authority and of Government. We rely for income on donations and legacies, and money raised from our activities and commercial operations. We are supported by a Friends group and many volunteers without whom we simply could not manage. We protect and open to the public Penllergare Valley Woods, a valuable community amenity and asset for the whole of Swansea and beyond.
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Ymddiriedolaeth Penllergare The Penllergare Trust ________________________________________________________________________
Volunteer Role DescriptionEducation Assistant
________________________________________________________________________
What is an Education Assistant?Education Assistants help to run education programmes for school and further/higher education visits, working as part of a team to support sessions with groups of children and young people. Education groups are an important link with the local community and you will help make sure their visits are enjoyable and memorable.
What’s in it for you?
• Becoming part of a friendly and dedicated team• Meeting people from all walks of life and making new friends• Improving your communication skills • Enjoying new experiences and learning something new every day
What’s involved?
• Increasing your knowledge of Penllergare Valley Woods and its stories so that you can bring it to life for younger visitors
• Leading or assisting with activity sessions for small groups of children
• Using and looking after resources and equipment used for school visits
• Helping to improve the school programme by sharing your ideas and experience
• Becoming familiar with and then following the Penllergare Trust’s Health and Safety Policy at all times
• Giving any other appropriate assistance as may be reasonably requested
This role will suit people who… enjoy working with children and have an enthusiastic and friendly nature with a talent for communicating. This role will require a criminal record disclosure and/or vetting through the Independent Safeguarding Authority.
About the Penllergare Trust
The Penllergare Trust is a registered charity and is completely independent of the local authority and of Government. We rely for income on donations and legacies, and money raised from our activities and commercial operations. We are supported by a Friends group and many volunteers without whom we simply could not manage. We protect and open to the public Penllergare Valley Woods, a valuable community amenity and asset for the whole of Swansea and beyond.
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Annex 6 – Sample Walks Brief
Introducing Penllergare Valley Woods …(Guided ‘walk and talk’ on the heritage and environment of Penllergare)
Car Park RV Introduction (When ‘meeting & greeting’ find out how many first time visitors/who has walked with Trust before/who knows the woods well/from what source they heard about the walk)
Welcome on behalf of the Penllergare Trust. Introduce leader/volunteer assistants if present. Inform group about structure of a Walk & Talk in 12 stages – mostly level ground, some inclines & one flight of steps. Moderate pace. Time: 2 - 2½ hours (depending on numbers: interest: questions etc)H & S – Be aware of uneven ground, sudden drops, muddy surfaces. Walkers to be responsible for their own personal safety. The valley undergoing restoration by the Penllergare Trust with funding from xxx xxxx xxxx (if applicable).
Stage 1 Setting the Scene – Grass Area Penllergare – once a renowned 19th century gentry estate belonging to the Dillwyn Llewelyn family and now a grade II registered landscape. Family still own valley. CCS owns offices/car park. Point out mansion site, stable area. Explain there had been a dwelling on the site since at least 15th century. Initially, possibly a modest farmhouse that was gradually gentrified as centuries progressed and family wealth increased. Remained in same ‘family’ ownership – moving sideways to cousins on occasions and twice to the distaff side.
Stage 2 Over to Observatory Today, the story begins with John Dillwyn Llewelyn (JDL) who inherited Penllergare from his maternal grandfather when he was 7 in 1817. At 21 JDL came into his inheritance and had developed an intense interest in natural science (botany, horticulture, arboriculture etc.) as well as applied science - particularly astronomy and photography. (His wife Emma was first cousin to the pioneering photographer Henry Fox Talbot.) JDL as early photographer and many images of estate in Swansea Museum and on internet.Explain only remaining 19th century structures are the ruined walled gardens and the equatorial observatory. The Dillwyn Llewelyn daughters Thereza, Elinor & Lucy, laid the foundation stone in 1851Expand on workings of observatory. The interest of daughter Thereza in astronomy and the taking of one of the first photographs of the moon c.1856/7 by father and daughter.JDL set about ‘improving’ his estate and his landscape design and vision followed a fashionable concept of the day known as the ‘picturesque’. Walk into the woods.
Stage 3 Culvert Describe now standing at the northern point of the land the Trust is managing today. The shape - imagine map of South America. It comprises of approx. 214 acres. In its 19 th
century heyday the estate extended to the north by approx. 3 miles - mostly woodland with some smallholdings for estate workers – as far as Pontlliw. Dillwyn Llewelyns were considerable landowners - outlying tenant farms in Pontarddulais, Llanedi as well as land
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in Carms, Breconshire & Lincolnshire; properties in Swansea plus the Ynysygerwen estate in Upper Neath Valley. Landscape originally ‘designed & improved’ as one man’s private paradise – today the Penllergare Trust’s plan is to restore as a public park.Topography of valley – River Llan as the natural spine of the estate, steep-sided glaciated valley etc. Microclimate. Conglomerate rock found that originated in Brecon Beacons. Indicate - imported trees planted as global exploration increased. Area steeped in history of early battles i.e. Cadle, Garn Goch.
Stage 4 Shanty site Death of Sir John Talbot DL (son of JDL) in 1927 – heir earlier had moved away to Newbridge on Wye - estate became surplus to requirements. Retained for next 9 years as a shooting lodge for family and guests. Duck shoots. Otter hunting. Optional: (Quote Thereza’s diary entry 1856) Estate sold on to Bible College. Requisitioned during WWII. Occupied by British then American forces. Valley land bought back. Gradually falling into dereliction until eventually the mansion house was blown up in 1961.In the valley nature was taking over - becoming a wildlife sanctuary – heron, dipper, kingfisher are now seen regularly. 62 bird species recorded on last Trust survey. River back to life having been polluted from 1930s to 60s with industrial waste. Salmon now return for spawning.Point out some plant rarities. Explain garden escapees i.e. bamboo, pendula sedge, the scourge of Himalayan balsam. Victorian’s love of cherry laurel and rhododendron. Importance of Penllergare rhododendrons.
Stage 5 Base of steps Describe JDL’s belief that water enhanced a landscape – decision to create a lake below the house. The second lake on the estate. (Lower Lake constructed first, altogether bigger at 20 acres) Problems of maintenance – silt - but a haven for wildlife. The Trust in restoring Upper Lake (called Fishpond by JDL) has to create a balance with nature. Place historically important because it was where JDL demonstrated in 1848 the first electrically powered boat seen in the UK. One previous experiment in Russia.For access to the lake JDL created a flight of steps from mansion plus garden terraces with interlinking paths, stone steps and strategically planted exotic trees and shrubs. Point out cryptomeria japonica, veteran yew tree, monkey-puzzle en route up steps.
Stage 6 - The Drive The first of JDL’s ‘improvements’ - a new carriage drive from the south – the constructed spine of the estate running parallel with the river on the valley floor. (Brief description of the increasing importance of the industrial town & port of Swansea, and the DL family’s position in society) The new drive, constructed in 1832/33, was 1½ miles long. Estate workmen created a ledge wide enough for two carriages to pass side by side. Blasted out of rock by gunpowder. Show blast marks and demonstrate method.Point out Walled Gardens at top of hill; describe importance and what was grown. Quote story of ‘tea bush’. Intro. to the construction of the first designed orchideous house in the world – JDL’s expertise and value as an orchid grower.
Stage 7 Quarry Bridge The bridge carries the Drive over a large hole in the ground - once a quarry where all the building stone came from i.e. for extensions to the mansion, enlarging stables, building lodges et al. Explain why a bridge and not a wall. When estate construction complete it was turned into an alpine garden by JDL with a rustic summerhouse at top corner, a cascade of water tumbling down and alpine plants in the rock face. John Talbot DL (MFH
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of the Penllergaer hunt) had another use for quarry some 30 years later as a fox kennel. Optional - Quote ghost story of ‘the artist’ in the quarry.
Stage 8 Upper Lodge The face of modern development (Parc Penllergaer housing) now seen on what was once a field belonging to the Home Farm. Point out the change in terrain – the upper valley is steep-sided and ‘alpine’ - from this point becomes shallower. 170 years ago it was pasture for grazing cattle. The lodge nearby had a gate that was opened for visitors but also kept the cattle corralled.Optional – at Picnic Meadow – Future Plans
Stage 9 Yew Grove View of Quarry Bridge above from valley floor. Opposite on the site of a ruined mill (see mill stone on river bank) JDL created ‘an eyecatcher’ by planting yew trees and sequoias. Viewed from the carriage drive 19th century visitors would see dark and mysterious planting below. Victorians loved the gothic – also an element of the ‘picturesque’.Show remnants of 1831 plateway (a recent discovery) used to bring stone down the incline from the quarry – hence the bridge.Explain provenance of sequoias – redwoods as exotics and as long-lived trees. Demonstrate thickness of bark as insulation against forest fires. Hand around sample pieces.
Stage 10 Adjacent to Llewelyn Bridge First sight of Waterfall. The third of JDL’s major projects to beautify & improve his estate was the construction of a dam for the Upper Lake – important to have aesthetic as well as practical value. Explain unique rustic construction designed by JDL – man-made - with triple cascades. Possibility of ledges as fish passes and/or to enhance dramatic effect of cascading water. The stone came from the quarry. Marvel at the expertise of Victorian workmen who could construct with such rudimentary tools.
Stage 11 Waterfall No commentary – water drowns out sound. Visitors take photos.
Stage 12 Back to car park Thank visitors. Explain there are public walks in spring and summer – dates on website, entrance noticeboards and in press. Look at the website for more information, to download a Walks Leaflet, buy a copy of Penllergare – Echoes from Valley Woods or join the Friends. Hand out general brochure – suggest small donation to help with printing costs.
JCE December 2010
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Annex 7 – Activity Planning Chart
Activity name June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May June
Recruit project staffProject Director === ===Estate Manager === === ===
A&E Organiser/WPWarden === === ===HLF determination XConclude lease neg XRebuild old bridge === === === ===Restore Observatory === === === === === ===Stone steps === === === ===Drystone walls === === === ===Restore upper lake === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Instal hydro power plant === === === === === === === ===Build kiosk / toilets === === === === === === === ===Restore drive === === === === === === === === === === === ===Car parking === === ===Gateway impts (vols) === === === === === ===Fencing (vols) === === === === === === ===Benches and signs(vols) === === === === === === === === ===Tree and woodland work(vols) === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===
TEAMWORKSVolunteer open days etc X X X X XTraining - guided tours X XTraining - public speaking X XTraining - food XTraining - customer care XVisits X XTraining - woodland man't X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X XTraining - train the trainer X XTraining - monitoring X XTrusteeship course XFacilitation youth & main forum === === === X XX XX XX X XX XX XX X XX XX
Presenting PenllergareBaseline evaluation event XIntro guided walks - public X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X XCrafts and skills X X X X X XTalks off siteIntro guided walks - arrTalks on site X X X X X X X XThemed study days XPhoto comp === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Family discovery trail === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Holiday story telling X X X XFamily treasure hunt/geocaching === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Watch the Birdie XSeasonal events X X X X X X XBushcraft X XInterpretation === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Guided hard hat walks X X X X X X X X X XE trails === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Web site development === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Monitoring visitors === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Monitoring wildlife === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Wild for Woods X X X X XX XX X X X X X X XX XX X X X X X X XX XXSchools art competition === === === === === ===Enrichment days === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===Walking for Health === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === === ===
BLF funding periodCombined event X
2011 2012 2013 2014
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