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Ben Vickers

Getting to know my colleagues at RTPI North West really helped me settle in following my move across the country. It’s also enabled me to put some great stuff down on my CV. 

When did you first join the RTPI?

Not sure…it must have been whilst I was a student back in (around) 2008.

When did you first get actively involved as a volunteer?

Around 2013, whilst working for Camden Council (London)

How did you get started, what was your first role?

I was working in Enforcement at the time, but was keen to join a Policy team, so I volunteered with Planning Aid, supporting the Dartmouth Park neighbourhood forum – mainly taking/writing up meeting minutes. I’d not been chartered yet at that point.

Can you tell us more about your experience as a volunteer since then?

In 2018, I relocated to the North West and have been on RTPI NW RAC ever since, becoming Treasurer in 2020. I’m also part of the NW ‘Planning Aid’ task group. Through volunteering I have organised/chaired the following events:

  • ‘Smarter LPAS’ – an in-person event held in Macclesfield and showcased award-winning work by LPAs.
  • a joint webinar with the Town and Country Planning Association, showcasing their ‘Raynsford Review’ report for Planning Aid.
  • Planning Aid training event discussing the ‘Future of Consultation’.
  • ran a workshop hosted by Stockport Council, to help discuss their draft local plan with residents.

As Treasurer, my main role is to prepare RTPI NW’s annual business plan. I’m good with Ms Excel, so I thought this was an area I could be of particular use.

What have you gained by volunteering with the RTPI?

My presenting skills have (probably) improved. I’ve also got to know some great people.

What is the best thing about volunteering with the RTPI?

Getting to know my colleagues at RTPI NW really helped me settle in following my move across the country. It’s also enabled me to put some great stuff down on my CV. Taking the minutes for Dartmouth Park back in 2013 didn’t take up much time for example, but the experience was pivotal in be gaining my first job in policy – an area of planning I still enjoy working in.   

For anyone considering volunteering, what advice would you give them?

Give it a go. Volunteering is a ‘safe space’ to come out of your comfort zone and try some new things/tasks. You never know where it might take you.

Find out more about the North West Region and volunteering opportunities here.