Background
The Llangollen and Corwen Railway is a heritage railway in North Wales, operated by dedicated volunteers. It offers scenic journeys, historical experiences, and community engagement opportunities. The railway is committed to preserving its heritage while fostering inclusive, educational, and safe environments for all ages.
Purpose of Post and Aims
To support the Volunteer Coordinator in developing, delivering, and monitoring youth programmes across all departments of the railway. This role ensures compliance with regulatory standards (ORR, HRA, HSE), enabling the safe and meaningful involvement of 14–17-year-olds in railway operations.
The Youth Worker/Organiser will:
- Collaborate with department leads to create structured training programmes for youth groups.
- Ensure all risk assessments, DBS checks, and safety protocols are in place and up to date.
- Supervise youth sessions, gather feedback, and log all activities for reporting.
- Contribute to funding monitoring ensuring outcomes are documented and aligned with funding requirements.
Key Responsibilities
The Youth Worker will be a supporting role, working with the Volunteer Coordinator to fulfill the following:
1. Programme Development
- Liaise with department leads (e.g., operations, engineering, hospitality) to identify opportunities for youth involvement.
- Support the design of age-appropriate training programmes that align with railway tasks and comply with ORR/HRA/HSE guidance.
- Ensure programmes reflect the changing legislation for 14–17-year-olds, including safe task allocation.
2. Compliance and Safety
- Assist in conducting and reviewing risk assessments for all youth activities, ensuring they meet railway and legal standards.
- Support the oversight of DBS checks and safeguarding procedures for all youth participants and volunteers.
- Help maintain records of safety briefings, permissions, and compliance documentation.
3. Supervision and Delivery
- Supervise youth groups during practical sessions, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
- Provide hands-on guidance and mentorship to young participants, fostering skill development and confidence.
- Adapt activities to suit the abilities and interests of the group, while maintaining compliance.
4. Feedback and Monitoring
- Collect feedback from youth participants, department leads, and parents/guardians to refine programmes.
- Log all youth group activities, including attendance, progress, and incidents, in a centralised system.
- Support reporting on outcomes and contributing to funding monitoring.
5. Collaboration and Communication
- Work closely with the Volunteer Coordinator and department leads to integrate youth programmes into railway operations.
- Promote the youth initiative internally and externally, encouraging participation and awareness.
- Attend meetings and training to stay updated on railway policies, safeguarding, and compliance.
Person Specification
Essential
- Experience working with young people (14–17 years old) in a structured environment.
- Knowledge of safeguarding, risk assessment, and compliance in youth-focused settings.
- Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to liaise across departments.
- Commitment to inclusivity, safety, and regulatory adherence.
- Ability to supervise, mentor, and engage young participants effectively.
Desirable
- Familiarity with heritage railways, volunteering sectors, or similar environments.
- Experience in monitoring and reporting for funded programmes (e.g., WCVA).
- First Aid or safeguarding qualifications.
Additional Information
- This is a volunteer role, with flexible hours based on youth programme schedules.
- Travel between Llangollen and Corwen Railway sites may be required.
- Successful candidates will undergo DBS checks and railway-specific safety training.
- The role is part of a cohort of Youth Group Organisers, working collaboratively to deliver the programme.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should contact the Volunteer Coordinator for further details. Email [email protected]
Llangollen Railway Trust is an equal opportunities organisation and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
