Leeds Civic Trust runs 10-20 guided walks every year, led by volunteer walk guides. On each walk, we have a volunteer backstop, who supports the walk leader by helping move the group safely around designated walking routes. The main purpose of backstopping is to keep the walk group together and help the event keep to time, whilst also monitoring safety when crossing roads etc.
Backstops are on hand to look after the group, so the walk leader can focus on delivering the content of the guided walk.
What will I be doing?
- Welcoming guests and marking them on attendee lists
- Confirming for the walk leader when all participants are present
- Distributing audio equipment to participants if required and explaining to guests how the system works.
- Encouraging questions and creating a friendly, inclusive atmosphere
- Representing Leeds Civic Trust positively and professionally
- Helping ensure walks run to time and follow agreed routes and procedures
- Working with the walk leaders to ensure all guests are accounted for and safely up to speed with the whole group
Will there be any training to complete?
All new backstops are expected to attend a training session on 1 December where we will show you how to use our audio equipment and go over the basics of backstopping.
Where will I be volunteering?
All walks involve being outdoors. We recommend that volunteers in this role are happy to be outside, occasionally in inclement conditions and will be prepared to dress accordingly.
Will meetings be held, and if so, where will they be?
There are no specific regular meetings involved with this role, but we may ask walk leaders and walk backstops to come together on occasion for workshops, and to share their experiences and provide feedback. Any such meetings would most often take place 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 role predominantly supports the walk leaders who will be available for any questions prior to, or during your time in this role. In addition, all LCT volunteers are supported by the staff team which includes Heather Griffiths, the Trust’s Volunteering and Engagement Coordinator: heather@leedscivictrust.org.uk
How do I apply?
If you would like to become a volunteer backstop, please email Heather Griffiths at heather@leedscivictrust.org.uk to express your interest by Friday 13 November. We will be in touch with more information in late November.
