Join us at Pollington lock on the Aire/Calder to be part of growing number of like minded people who enjoy being outdoors and help us maintain this historic waterway as a * volunteer lock keeper *.
The role is about, assisting Boaters if required ,General light maintenance of the lock and surrounding area itself, painting of lock hardware and fencing, Grass cutting, weeding and keeping the area free from litter for all to enjoy and working on the
This will be a self supervised opportunity once volunteers are confident in the role and will self manage themselves, fully supported by a Canal & River Trust team leader.
The opportunity can be attended at own convenience once confident but initially on a week day.

Why we want you

Lock keepers have been a fixture on Britain’s canals for hundreds of years and are one of the oldest traditions of the waterways. As ‘the face of the waterway’, modern-day volunteer lock keepers play an integral part in the visitor experience. Their role is to provide a polite and friendly welcome to waterway visitors, assisting boaters through the locks and helping to maintain the area.
It’s a perfect opportunity for those who enjoy working in the outdoors and are perhaps looking for something different to do and want to help support the Canal & River Trust. The key qualities we’re looking for are enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
Anyone can join as long as you are over the age of 18 and have a least a day a week available. Following appropriate selection, training and induction sessions we expect the role to commence fully around April and run through to October (local variations may apply).

What you will be doing

Helping boats through the locks

Talking to customers

Litter picking and/or minor vegetation works

When you register as a volunteer, we will ask you about any unspent convictions which you need to declare and risk assess these as needs be.

The skills you need

Great communication skills. This is all about talking to people.

Practical skills – it’s also about minor maintenance to ensure that your locks are functional.

Teamworking skills – whilst you may spend some of your time alone, fundamentally you’re part of a team.

What's in it for you

It's a great way to meet other local volunteers, learn new skills, and hear about other volunteering opportunities if you fancy getting more involved.

Volunteer Lock-Keeper (POLLINGTON VLKs)

Volunteer Lock-Keeper (POLLINGTON VLKs)

Share this job now