When did you first join the RTPI?

 

I joined as a student member when completing my masters in 2009. In 2010 I became a Licentiate and in 2013 I became chartered.

 

When did you first get actively involved as a volunteer?

 

When I was studying for my masters, to build up my practical planning experience and meet other planners in the profession.

 

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

 

Volunteering for Planning Aid West Midlands in Shropshire helping the local authority to undertake community and stakeholder engagement for a series of community plans that began their neighbourhood planning journey.

 

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

 

I have had lots of great experiences since then at both a regional and national level. For the last two years I have been involved in RTPI Committees’ - in 2020 the International Committee and in 2021 the Education and Lifelong Learning Committee.  

 

What have you gained by volunteering with the RTPI?

 

New knowledge and skills as well as new connections and an expanded professional network. It has also been good fun and a chance to get a different perspective beyond the day job.

  

What is the best thing about volunteering with the RTPI?

 

The chance to see and better understand different areas of planning, particularly useful if you are starting out in the planning profession.

 

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

 

Reach out and get ideas on opportunities and then put your hand up and get involved!

 

Find out more about volunteering in London here.