What's involved?
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). Induction & training will commence mid March.
What skills are we looking for?
To carry out this role, you’ll ideally have an interest in the waterway and/or the local area, but this is not essential. The most important attributes are an ability to interact with and help others; a friendly manner and the ability to make a good first impression; a hands-on approach and can-do attitude, and flexibility to work on your own or with others. Ideally we are looking for someone who is locally based; and be available to work as part of a team.
We provide a full induction in the use of the locks; what the Canal & River Trust is and our aims; and relevant safety information and supply uniform and equipment as necessary. Reasonable out of pocket expenses can be claimed.
What will you get from us?
Whether it’s helping a boat through the lock, talking to customers, litter picking or undertaking vegetation works, it can really make a great difference to a visitor’s appreciation of the waterways.
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.