White Cliffs Country Greeter Programme

As a local voluntary group or organisation we would like to make you aware of, and see if you or your members are interested in getting involved in, a new programme that is to be launched in Dover, Deal and Sandwich in July 2008 – White Cliffs Country Greeters.

This exciting new programme is based on the Big Apple Greeters initiative in New York, where informed local volunteers meet up with visitors new to the area to pass on their top tips and details of particular places of interest.

Visit Kent in partnership with Dover District Council, is to launch its second Greeter programme in Dover next year before rolling it out across the rest of the county as part of the Pride in Kent Programme. 

A working group has been formed made up of Kent County Council, Dover District Council and Dover, Deal and Sandwich Town Councils to develop a programme here in the Dover district.  We are also engaging with Peter Shaw the chair of the Thanet Greeters, to gain his experience, knowledge and expertise in setting up the Thanet Greeters.

I have attached an FAQ on the Scheme to the end of this notice. 

If within your organisation you have local people with ‘Pride in the White Cliffs Country ’ and would like to share their passion, enthusiasm and knowledge of the area with others or you are curious to find out more, contact us by telephone on 01622 696936 or email prideinkent@kent.gov.uk

Debbie Dainton

Tourism Officer

Volunteer FAQ

White Cliffs Country Greeters

What support can I expect?

The Greeters movement has been established for 15 years in New York and have a vast experience in dealing with visitors and the day to day running of the scheme. We have already set up a programme in Thanet in Kent and they are willing to share their experiences with the White Cliff Country Greeters to enable all volunteers to receive full support in setting up and the ongoing operation of the scheme.

On a local level it is planned that a support package will be offered to volunteers including training and information sheets.  There will of course be regular communication between all members.

Will I be insured?

Yes. Provided volunteer’s work within the guidelines laid down by the White Cliffs Country Greeters scheme all relevant insurances will be in place and no personal liability will be incurred.  

How much time will I have to give?

It is up to you. Everyone is a volunteer and will only be expected to give time to the scheme when it is practical and comfortable to do so.

Will it cost me anything?

No. Everyone in the scheme is a volunteer working, in the main, in his or her own town. Any other services or products offered, as part of the meeting will be provided by the Greeters organisation. The Greeters operates a no payment and no tipping policy.

Are there any other roles besides greeting people?

Yes. Every well run organisation has backroom people and the greeters is no exception. As the movement grows many organisational staff will be required.  We are keen to get more people involved in the set up of the scheme that have time and organisation skills available.

Will I have to talk to large groups?

No. It is a rule that a party of visitors met by a greeter will not exceed 6 persons.  The scheme is not a professional tour guide service and is not to take business from existing organisations in Thanet.

Will I be expected to use my car to show people around?

No. All meetings take place in public places and should the need to travel further a field occur, public transport must be used.

Will I get any training?

Yes, guidance will be given to ensure that greetings follow a similar pattern; however, we do not wish to suppress individual personal enthusiasm.  Part of the training will include an orientation session.

Can anyone join?

The vast majority of people will be welcomed from all backgrounds and abilities to fulfil both Greeter and administrative roles. However, we must not loose sight of the fact the Greeters are ambassadors for their country and area and so an application   system will be in place and acceptance for becoming a volunteer is not automatic. 

Are volunteers required to speak a foreign language?

No, but our visitors hopefully will come from all over the world. The Greeter policy is that all Visitors/ Greeters will be matched to ensure that both parties have an enjoyable experience. Special needs will be identified at the time of booking. 

Who administers the scheme? How is it funded?

The White Cliffs Country Greeters scheme will be a non-profit making organisation.  A volunteer board of directors will be set up to steer the scheme forward.  Set up funding has been provided from Visit Kent.