Starting a Community Group

elegant_shark

Sorry I am aware that there is a similar post just posted but I do want to ask for a lot more information (not trying to step on toes! :embarasse

First of all, I am Scotland-based (Fife) if that makes a difference; I am determined (and have been for years) that I am going to set up a reptile rescue service and this has been in mind for some time. I have applied for college (which I realise is actually not necessary) and plan to get my HND in Animal Care. I am, however, extremely impatient and I know myself that I want to do something now.

I have decided and been planning out on starting one aspect of the rescue service which is holding educational workshops; perhaps to even hold and see some beginner snakes and lizards for people as well as talking on basic care and needs. I would eventually want to expand this from local based, but I'm content with crawling before I can walk.

I do not know the first thing about starting a group/event in my area though. I don't know how best to get started and who to ask and how to promote it. I just feel a little overwhelmed with all of the initial getting off the ground.

Can anyone give advice how I can started? Who is best to speak to, how to raise interest and what to expect etc? Anything at all would be greatly appreciated

oldtoolie

Why not join your local reptile group?

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Scottish-Reptile-Exotics-Network/283047731753408

http://www.fifeamphibianandreptilegroup.org.uk/

hm71_2

i dont know how old you are but this may be of some help
http://www.princes-trust.org.uk/need_help.aspx

our local volunteer service runs classes etc so may be helpful tro you
http://www.cvsfife.org/

I found these people helpful as well
http://www.resourcecentre.org.uk/information/setting_up/

hope that helps

elegant_shark

Thank you guys for the links and advice.

Sorry I prolly should have mentioned; I am 22 years old so have the ability to a lot of young persons grants etc. Also I was trying to find something I saw years ago, iunno if anyone would know what it was. I'm sure it was a government scheme (but don't quote me) where it was to help form ideas from young people Route -something- Route 43, 72, 91 i cant remember the exact number but every time I try to find it google keeps trying to send me on a bus.

I'm looking further into these links.

elantan

maybe get in touch with hesselhead they are a wildlife sanctury ... from what i know of them they would be willing to share /give advice etc ... you could also maybe volunteer with them to see how it works on the ground ... i dont imagine you would be as big ( although you never know) and the issues you may face could be different ... but it would give you a good grounding