Laura Ross
Communications Officer, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Laura Ross catches up with the new Volunteer Coordinator at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, to find out more about what she's most looking forward to and her love of kick-boxing.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I’ve had many jobs ranging from working on a paint mixing desk at B&Q, processing 35mm films in a Boots photo lab to baking cakes for weddings and cafes. Mostly all my roles have involved working with people in a supportive, mentoring or facilitator capacity. I’m a trained Forest School teacher and love being outdoors. I’ve spent a lot of time working for charities in education and the arts sector, supporting volunteers in various roles and settings.
What interested you in the role of Volunteer Coordinator?
This role combines two big interests for me - volunteering and nature. I am passionate about volunteering and the benefits it can have for both the individual volunteer and the organisation receiving their time, energy, and support. I also understand the positive impact natural spaces and wildlife can have on our wellbeing and the importance of protecting it. This role seemed to be a perfect fit, in a beautiful location and I was very lucky to be successful. I’m very much looking forward to getting stuck in.
Did you already have a connection with Rye Harbour? If so, what is your favourite spot or memory from here?
I moved from Norfolk to Hastings 12 years ago and have spent many weekends enjoying walks in Rye Harbour. It feels like an otherworldly, dreamlike landscape to me, and I love experiencing it in all weathers. My favourite spot is the Mary Stanford Lifeboat House. RHNR also formed a bit of a measure stick as my children have grown, it used to be a real achievement to get from the car park to Lime Kiln Cottage when they were toddlers! Each year I’d be able to get them further and further towards the sea, and now we can do full loops together and enjoy identifying the wildlife we see.
What are you most looking forward to about your new role?
Working with lovely people. All the volunteers and staff are so warm and friendly, and I look forward to working with them all and becoming a part of the RHNR community. Also, being able to take walks on my lunchbreak in such a beautiful landscape.
What do you think the key challenges may be?
We are lucky enough to have a huge number of volunteers registered with us at RHNR and across the whole of the Trust. I imagine it will be a challenge to keep on top of everything and ensure all volunteers are well supported.
Tell us something we might not know about you
In my spare time I enjoy knitting and kickboxing – not at the same time!
This post is also available on Sussex Wildlife Trust website
