Jobs in Badenoch and Strathspey, Highland

At the Cairngorms National Park Authority we have an ambitious programme of delivering transformational change as we tackle the climate emergency and nature crisis and strive to be the best small public sector organisation in Scotland. We know we can only do this if we are fully inclusive and representative of all our visitors, staff and communities. We have a strong foundation in equality and inclusion coupled with a proud history of developing a Park for All but we also know we can do better and aspire to lead the way locally and nationally in our sector.

We are inviting applications for members to join our Equality Advisory Panel to support us in our journey to create a fully inclusive Park Authority. We want members who have background knowledge and experience in equality and diversity and who can give us evidence based advice on best practice so we can truly deliver the best for our visitors, communities and staff across all protected characteristics.

Who are you?

You have a passion for equality and diversity and a desire to influence organisational strategy. You will have experience of delivering equality approaches for protected and disadvantaged groups either in your work or voluntary roles. You’ll know how to signpost to best equality practice and challenge us to improve. You may be looking for some experience working with National Parks or public sector organisations at a strategic level.

Our panel is currently under represented by Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, young people (18 – 24), and LGBTQ+ communities and we would encourage applications from candidates with professional or personal knowledge, skills and experience in these areas. We are also interested in having members who have knowledge of or work with immigrant communities.

Why join the panel?

This is a volunteer role is not remunerated, but existing members have stated the following with regards to why they joined the panel, and what they get out of it:-

• Having grown up abroad and moved to Scotland five years ago, I have come to appreciate how accessible nature feels here and the strong sense of wellbeing and freedom that outdoor spaces can provide. As a solo female traveller and someone working in the nature conservation sector, I joined the EAP to help ensure the National Park remains welcoming, inclusive and safe for everyone, including those from underrepresented communities. Being part of the panel has allowed me to contribute different perspectives while also broadening my own understanding of inclusion and accessibility in Scotland's landscapes.
• I joined the panel as I am a regular visitor to the Cairngorms National Park. I have noticed some of the barriers that face disabled people and people on low incomes - from accessing and getting the benefits (physical, mental health, wellbeing) from the National Park and seen this as an opportunity to use my skills. expertise and knowledge to influence the development of our park with the aim of making it more accessible and affordable for all.
• I value contributing to decisions that shape how people access and experience nature. I benefit immensely from the knowledge of our dedicated EAP members and from being part of a like minded group. I am gaining an understanding CNPA’s organisational priorities and hearing from staff, plus helping to further meaningful change.
• I’ve lived in and worked in the Cairngorms National Park area for over 25 years and keen to support efforts to make the Park work for all.
• I originally applied to join the EAP through my passion for promoting fair access to our countryside and wild places for everyone. This was combined with my love of outdoor learning and experiencing the barriers that often exist for young people accessing nature. I thought long and hard about applying to the EAP. It represents a fantastic opportunity to understand the workings of this very special place, and an opportunity to broaden my own perspectives and worldview. During my time on the EAP I have learned so much from my fellow panel members and from the many presenters at our monthly meetings. I hope I have balanced being an analytical, critical friend, as well as showing effective allyship for under-represented groups within the Park environments.
• I joined the Panel to share both my professional and personal perspectives, contribute to the Authority’s direction of travel, and learn from others who are equally passionate about inclusion. The Cairngorms is a special place, and I feel deeply grateful to play a part in helping shape its future, as it has helped shape mine.
• I have enjoyed being on the panel. I have gained confidence in getting my point across and my critical thinking skills have improved. My eyes have been opened to the views and needs of other groups too, eg access difficulties of those in poverty

Commitment

We want people to give advice and guidance through a virtual forum which meets nine times a year as well as providing support outside of scheduled meeting. The overall commitment is no more than 2 hours a month.

This is a voluntary role however all reasonable expenses incurred will be covered.

If you this sounds like you and you want to know more please contact us at equalities@cairngorms.co.uk