In 2025, we launched a new biannual members magazine, The Owl. This 28-page magazine contains 6-8 well-developed and researched articles about Leeds, centred around a topical theme. These articles are diverse but cover the key areas of interest of Leeds Civic Trust, including transport, planning, heritage, public amenities, and culture in Leeds.
We are recruiting volunteer writers for The Owl. Leeds Civic Trust staff will set the theme and article titles for each edition. Volunteers will be assigned articles to research and write. Staff will support volunteers throughout the writing process.
Please see two previous editions of The Owl here to get a flavour of the magazine: The Owl edition 1, The Owl edition 3
What will I be doing?
- Researching and writing allocated articles, submitted to a deadline.
- Planning and conducting interviews with relevant individuals/organisations, with support from LCT staff where needed.
- Proofreading and fact-checking articles from other writers.
What are the required skills and experience?
- A high standard of English
- An interest in Leeds’ heritage and development
- Proactiveness and confidence to ask for help when needed and stay in touch with LCT staff about your progress
Where will I be volunteering?
Predominantly remotely.
Will meetings be held, and if so where will they be?
The group would begin with monthly meetings to check in with each other on the progress of each edition. Meetings will predominantly be online, but there will be opportunities to meet at the LCT offices.
About volunteering with Leeds Civic Trust
Leeds Civic Trust thrives with the support of over 100 volunteers. We value the incredible contribution made by volunteers in achieving our charitable objectives. Our volunteers play a vital and collaborative role in helping us protect, celebrate and improve Leeds’ heritage, places and communities.
LCT is committed to welcoming and involving as broad a range of people to our volunteering community as possible. We champion equality of opportunity and do not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics or background. We particularly welcome applications from people who may face barriers to volunteering, and we consider all applicants fairly and on an individual basis.
Can I claim expenses?
We will reimburse reasonable travel expenditure (usually public transport via the most cost-effective route) to meetings, events or site visits, when volunteering away from your own home.
Who will support me?
This volunteering role is in collaboration with members of the Trust’s staff team. In addition, all LCT volunteers are supported by Heather Griffiths, the Trust’s Volunteering and Engagement Coordinator.
How to apply
Please send us an email of 150-300 words introducing yourself, explaining why this role appeals to you and how you demonstrate the required skills and experience.
Please attach to this email an example of your writing. For example, a blog post, an article or a review. It does not have to be about Leeds!
Email office@leedscivictrust.org.uk by Friday 13 November to be considered for this volunteering role. You will hear back from us by early December.
