Purpose of the role

Heritage Paths is a valued, free, online source of information about historic paths. However, since ScotWays started the project in 2007, some of the route descriptions have become outdated. ScotWays volunteers recently resurveyed the 350 routes featured in Scottish Hill Tracks (SHT), and there is a substantial overlap between these two route categories. We are looking for volunteers to assist by reviewing the Scottish Hill Tracks survey reports against the Heritage Paths route descriptions, then propose updates so that they are more accurate.

The activities that you may be involved in include:

• Reading and understanding reports submitted by the volunteers who surveyed the Scottish Hill Tracks routes.
• Comparing the SHT routes with those of Heritage Paths that overlap with them.
• Identifying any errors in the Heritage Paths route descriptions.
• Proposing changes to the Heritage Paths route descriptions to correct the errors you have identified.
• Sharing your findings by filling in a template file using Microsoft Word Online.
• Using simple functions in Microsoft SharePoint to track progress.

You will need:

• A desire to help inform the public about historic paths.
• A suitable computer and internet connection.
• Competence with basic IT skills.
• The ability to read Ordnance Survey maps, including working with grid references.
• The ability to read and write route descriptions.
• A basic understanding of public outdoor access rights.

We will provide:

• Training in all aspects of the role, periodic support and supervision.
• Access to the software required to undertake your role.
• Opportunities to take part in other volunteering activities and projects.

If you have some spare time and you’d like to help ScotWays with this role, please get in touch with Neil Birch, the Access Officer responsible for volunteering. He will arrange a chat with you and discuss how volunteering for ScotWays works.