The Millenium Volunteers programme is currently under review and not accepting applicants - it may launch again in December 2009 - watch this space, in the meantime this is the information for the scheme when it is open.

1.What does the  Brecon Beacons National Park Authority Millennium Volunteers Programme offer?
The programme enables you to volunteer alongside and receive training from professional National Park Authority Staff in 2 areas:
a.    Practical countryside management for access and wildlife habitat. This is available as regular day long group sessions, some weekday , some weekend. Start points from Brecon and additional locations to be confirmed  where there are groupings of Millennium Volunteers
b. Visitor services- including researching designing information and promotion materials, liaising with visitors e.g. visitor surveys at  the National park Visitor centre. Available as placements with staff from the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority at mutually suitable times.

2. Who can apply?
Anyone aged 16 to 24 (you can start the day before your 25th birthday). You will be asked to complete an application form and be interviewed (by telephone or in person).

3. How do I apply?

When the scheme is open you can download the form complete it and return it to us by email to millennium.volunteers@breconbeacons.org  or post it to the address on the form. If you cannot download the form, email us and we will send you one.

4. What is the time commitment?
Millennium Volunteers aim for a 100 or a 200 hour award. 100 hours is approximately 12 days, 200 hours is 24 days, this time can spread over anything up to a year. Travel time contributes to the total hours.

5. Where is it based?
Practical work parties will start from Brecon, and one or two other locations around the Park. Start points will be arranged to suit the majority of volunteers so please let us know on the form all the places you could reach. Start/finish times will fit in with bus times. Visitor services placements are likely to be in Brecon or the National Park Visitor Centre at Libanus. Expenses will cover your travel costs if you use your own transport.

6. When will I be able to volunteer?
Practical work parties will be arranged on days to suit the majority of volunteers. Please let us know on the form all the days you could normally volunteer to give us the best chance of setting some suitable days for everyone. You will still only be expected to do 1 or 2 days a month

7. What does it cost?
There is no charge to you. The programme also covers your travel expenses and provides lunch and hot/cold drinks for volunteers. Some childcare expenses are available

8.What do Millenium Volunteers get from the programme?

• Experience working with a leading professional environmental organisation
• The chance to meet new people
• Something for your CV
• The Chance to “give something back” if you value your environment 
• Fun

9.What do other people say about the Millennium Volunteers programme?

Anthony Higgins, Chief Executive Office, University Clearing Admissions Systems (UCAS):“…It strikes me that the Millennium Volunteers programme provides potential students with an experience which will enhance their prospects in Higher Education."

David Ashley - Arcadia Group (Topshop, Topman stores) :

“…We look for people with energy, enthusiasm and the ability to work with others…Millennium Volunteers provides a fantastic opportunity to develop skills and qualities in real world situations…It can only give you a head start in your future career…"

Existing Millenium Volunteers:

"…It’s something interesting to talk about at interviews."

Laura, Wrexham

 “…It is a gateway to expand your imagination”

Dan, Swansea

You can also read a press release on one of the Millenium Volunteers.

For more information contact millennium.volunteers@breconbeacons.org