Role Purpose:
To support Torfaen County Borough Council (TCBC) Greenmeadow Community farm by offering time, skills, and enthusiasm to support the care and wellbeing of small animals. Assisting with husbandry tasks, ensuring the enclosures are clean and safe, and helping to provide enrichment and social interaction for the animals. Volunteers will also help educate and engage visitors, contributing to a welcoming and informative farm experience.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with feeding and watering of small animals (e.g. rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens)
- Clean animal enclosures and ensure hygiene standards are maintained
- Monitor animal health and report any concerns to staff
- Support enrichment activities to promote animal welfare
- Engage with visitors and answer any basic questions about the animals
- Follow all health and safety and safeguarding procedures
- Assist with setting up and the packing away of equipment used during animal care sessions
Requirements:
- Commitment to attend agreed shifts reliably and punctually
- Willingness to follow hygiene,health and safety, and safeguarding guidance
- Comfortable working around small animals and handling them safely
- Respect for confidentiality and sensitivity to visitor and animal needs
- Ability to work as part of a team and take direction from farm staff
- Willingness to Undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) if required
Skills & Experience (Essential/Desirable):
- Interest in small animal care and welfare (Essential)
- Friendly and approachable communication style (Essential)
- Basic understanding of animal husbandry (Desirable – training will be provided)
- Ability to follow instructions and safety procedures (Essential)
- Teamwork and collaboration skills (Desirable)
- Reliability and timekeeping (Essential)
Support & Benefits:
- Full induction and relevant training provided
- Relevant Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided
- Ongoing support and supervision
- Travel expenses reimbursed (subject to policy)
- Opportunity to gain experience, confidence, and new skills
- Certificate/reference upon request (after volunteering period)
- Community Farm Manager will perform individual Risk Assessments
Equal Opportunities:
Torfaen Council is committed to diversity and equal opportunities. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and communities, including those with disabilities or support needs.