In recent decades two species have become nationally extinct and several others have declined dramatically in the wake of habitat loss. Bumblebees are endearing garden insects and also important pollinators of wildflowers and crops, worth at least £400m to the UK economy. Further bumblebee declines could result in poorer harvests and sweeping changes to the countryside, with catastrophic knock-on effects for other wildlife.

The Bumblebee Conservation Trust aims to help by encouraging the provision of suitable habitats through conservation and education. Healthy bumblebee populations need flower-rich areas on a landscape-scale. Over 97% of species-rich meadows have been lost from the UK and replacing these will benefit a diversity of wildlife and people. The Trust is  a UK-wide membership-based charity with a healthy unrestricted income and seek to build from this solid foundation.

Person specification
It is essential that trustees empathise with our mission and values, are available to attend the majority of trustees meetings and are willing to assist us in providing sound governance. The Board will meet once every 2 – 3 months for two hours at the University of Stirling.

We would favour applicants from within a reasonable distance of Stirling to minimise travel and associated carbon emissions. Trustees may contribute to sub-groups, discussions or specific pieces of work between meetings, communicating mainly via email.

Trustees of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust are not paid but reasonable expenses are reimbursed. Any appointment is subject to consideration by the Board and we suggest a three month probationary period to allow reflection by all parties. Thereafter a four year term of service on the Board is encouraged.

For an informal discussion about the Bumblebee Conservation Trust please contact Ben Darvill, (right) director on 01786 467819 or by email ben.darvill@stir.ac.uk. Applicants are welcome to meet existing Trustees and BBCT staff by arrangement.

Résumés with a covering letter expressing interest should be sent to Bumblebee Conservation Trust, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA or by email to the address above.