Museum volunteer roles

Our Programming volunteers provide a warm welcome to everybody as part of the programming on property, making sure our visitors get the most from their experience with us. 

 This role will suit you if you are:

• Someone who loves meeting people and being part of a team
• Looking for new experiences
• Wanting to utilise your communication skills or develop them further
• Someone who enjoys a busy environment
• Flexible with what you can support with, there will be a rota you can pick and choose the events and activites you wish to get involved in
• Cheerful – even when last minute changes including the weather affect proceedings

By getting involved you could:

• Help support activities across the property
• Support ticketing, guiding, ushering and hosting events with external partners
• Enjoy some of our events 1st hand from a seat in the wings
• Become part of a friendly and dedicated team
• Enjoy new experiences and learn something new every day
• Build your confidence and experience
• See first-hand the rewarding results of helping visitors have a great time
• Share your enthusiasm and passion for what we do 

You’d also be joining Europe’s largest conservation charity and the wider National Trust team proudly looking after 780 miles of coastline, over 250,000 hectares of land, over 500 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks and nature reserves (including lighthouses, villages, pubs and a gold mine!). We are a unique charity welcoming millions of people each year and with a vision to open up places for the benefit of everyone, for ever.All National Trust volunteers will be asked to

• Respect and uphold the National Trust values whilst volunteering with us.
• Complete training required of all NT volunteers and any role specific training
• Adhere to relevant policies and processes including safeguarding, health and safety, and equality and diversity. 

 We want all our volunteers to feel welcome and to have an equally positive experience when volunteering with us. So, volunteers will:

• Be provided with the necessary induction, training, equipment and reasonable adjustments to do this role well and safely
• Be offered expenses to cover agreed travel costs between home and place of volunteering.
• Have remote access to support, news and rotas via our volunteer website

Tasks and responsibilities

• Providing a warm, welcoming and friendly approach to all of our visitors to our events and activities
• Supporting our visitors by providing them with information and guidance so they get the most from their time with us during the event
• Supporting visitors at several points throughout their experience
• Being ‘in the know’ at events and during activities to best help our supporters enjoy it in the way best suited to them
• Support accessibity needs during events to help ensure all visitors are feel included and welcome
• Responding to situations to ensure we always provide a great experience for people – and often spotting issues before they happen!
• There will be plenty of opportunities to do the little things that make a big difference to someone’s experience at Ickworth
• Helping things run as smoothly and safely as possible – this includes getting to know health and safety and evacuation procedures.
• Being part of a team that may need to adapt and change in response to local needs, National Trust priorities or changes to government guidelines

Skills acquired: Adaptability, Advice & Guidance, Communication Skills, Community Development, Crafts, Customer Service, Event Support, Fundraising, General Education, General Play and Recreation, Guiding, Interpersonal Skills, Music Arts, Public Relations, Teamwork, Theatre Arts, Visual Arts, Youth Activities Management

Are you happy to get stuck in with loads of enthusiasm? Fundraisers here at Ickworth are a diverse bunch and through talks, 2nd hand books, internal events and much more we help towards the conservation of this special place 

 This role will suit you if you are:

• Someone who enjoys talking to members of the public and can engage in a meaningful conversation.
• Comfortable lone working at times, as well as working in a team.
• Up for a challenge and like to reach a target.
• A person that enjoys giving excellent service.
• Happy to volunteer on your own. However, someone will always be available to support.
• Confident building new relationships with people.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Helping grow awareness and support for local & national fundraising
• Understanding different needs and interests of people and inspiring them to give in a way that is right for them.
• Supporting in our bookshop by manning the space, rotating stock, tidying and pricing books while always providing a friendly and welcoming approach.
• Attending regular meetings and suggesting fundraising ideas/feedback so we can fulfil our fundraising plan.
• Using your particular skills in creative ways to raise funds
• Answering questions people may have about the National Trust and being able to explain where donations go and impact they make.
• Ensuring we follow fundraising guidance, regulations and best practice
• Supporting big fundraising campaigns or projects.
• Being part of a team that may need to adapt and change in response to local needs, National Trust priorities or changes to government guidelines 

By getting involved you could:

• Be part of a passionate team, working closely with staff across departments raising vital funds to protect Ickworth.
• Be making a direct impact in our fundraising spaces, such as bookshop or through programming.
• Help bring the work of the National Trust to life and inspire others to get involved
• Increase your fundraising skills and experience of different ways to fundraise 

You’d also be joining Europe’s largest conservation charity and the wider National Trust team proudly looking after 780 miles of coastline, over 250,000 hectares of land, over 500 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks and nature reserves (including lighthouses, villages, pubs and a gold mine!). We are a unique charity welcoming millions of people each year and with a vision to open up places for the benefit of everyone, for ever. 

 All National Trust volunteers will be asked to

• Respect and uphold the National Trust values whilst volunteering with us.
• Complete training required of all NT volunteers and any role specific training
• Adhere to relevant policies and processes including safeguarding, health and safety, and equality and diversity. 

 We want all our volunteers to feel welcome and to have an equally positive experience when volunteering with us. So, volunteers will:

• Be provided with the necessary induction, training, equipment and reasonable adjustments to do this role well and safely
• Be offered expenses to cover agreed travel costs between home and place of volunteering.
• Have remote access to support, news and rotas via our volunteer website 

Skills acquired: Advice & Guidance, Communication Skills, Community Development, Customer Service, Decision Making, E-commerce, Event Support, Fundraising, General Administration, Interpersonal Skills, Inventory Management, Market Research, Marketing & Communications, Merchandising, Public Relations, Public Speaking, Retail, Sales Process, Stock / Inventory Management, Teamwork

Chair of Trustees – Aurora Wellbeing

Lead with purpose. Make a lasting difference.

Aurora Wellbeing is a local charity dedicated to supporting people affected by cancer and long-term health conditions. We promote wellbeing, empowerment, and compassionate support across our communities.

We are looking for an experienced and committed individual to become Chair of our Board of Trustees. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of Aurora and lead our governance in line with the Charity Commission’s guidance and our Aurora Wellbeing 2025 and Beyond Strategy.

We’re seeking someone who shares our mission and values, brings leadership experience, and is passionate about making a meaningful difference. A background in charity governance or senior leadership is essential.

We’re particularly keen to hear from applicants with experience in areas such as strategic planning, fundraising, healthcare commissioning, digital innovation, or promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.

About Aurora

The Aurora Wellbeing Services based in Worksop, Doncaster and Mexborough provide a unique service supporting people affected by cancer or long-term conditions, as well as the wider local community.

We provide person-centred, holistic support to local people, and encourage them to be active participants in their wellbeing. We work together to improve both their physical and emotional health.

Aurora provides a range of support services, including counselling, support groups, exercise & dietetic sessions, beauty & holistic treatments and more.

 The Role – Chair of Trustees

To lead the Board of Trustees in delivering effective governance, strategic oversight, and mission alignment in accordance with the Charity Commission’s guidance and the “Aurora Wellbeing 2025 and Beyond Strategy.” The Chairman ensures the Board operates with integrity, transparency, and impact.

We are looking for someone who:

• Shares Aurora Wellbeing’s mission and values
• Has proven leadership experience at Board or senior executive level
• Understands charity governance and legal responsibilities
• Can offer time, commitment, and strategic insight to lead the Board effectively
• Is passionate about improving wellbeing for people affected by cancer and long-term health conditions

We are particularly keen to hear from applicants with the following skills and experience:

• Strategic planning and governance
• Income generation, fundraising, or business development
• Healthcare commissioning in the voluntary and community sector
• Digital innovation or impact evaluation
• Building strong partnerships and acting as an ambassador
• Promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion

How to apply

Your application should include:

1) A Supporting statement (one side of A4 please) outlining:

• Why you want to be the Chair of Aurora?
• Relevant skills and experience
• How you meet the role criteria and tell us about any which you cannot meet.
• What you think the charity could do in the future and how you could help

2) Your CV

Selection and Recruitment Timetable

Deadline for applications - Wednesday 1st October 2025

Shortlisting - October 2025

Interviews - Monday 3rd November 2025

We look forward to hearing from you!

Role Description for Chair of Trustees

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the Board in setting the charity’s strategic direction and long-term goals.
• Oversee the development and monitoring of the annual business plan, budget, and risk management framework.
• Ensure alignment with Aurora’s strategic priorities: Growing our Reach, Growing our People, and Growing our Reputation.

Governance and Compliance

• Ensure the Board complies with its legal duties under the Charities Act 2011 and the Charity Commission’s CC3 guidance
• Maintain high standards of governance, including regular reviews of Board effectiveness, structure, and key policies.
• Ensure appropriate oversight of financial performance, risk, and regulatory compliance.

Board Development and Culture

• Foster a culture of openness, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
• Support the recruitment, induction, and development of Trustees to ensure a balanced and skilled Board.
• Address identified skills gaps, particularly in digital, fundraising, and people development.

Stakeholder Engagement and Representation

• Act as a key ambassador for Aurora Wellbeing, enhancing its reputation and influence.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, funders, and partners.
• Support income generation and innovation through strategic partnerships.

Accountability and Impact

• Ensure the charity is accountable to its beneficiaries, funders, and regulators.
• Promote transparency in decision-making and reporting.
• Oversee the measurement and communication of the charity’s impact.

Person Specification

Essential

· Proven leadership at Board or senior executive level.

· Strong strategic thinking and planning skills.

· Deep understanding of governance, compliance, and risk.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

· Commitment to Aurora’s mission and values.

· An understanding of healthcare commissioning, particularly within the voluntary and community sector

Desirable

· An understanding of healthcare commissioning, particularly within the voluntary and community sector

· Experience in business development, fundraising, or entrepreneurship.

· Knowledge of digital transformation and impact evaluation.

Time Commitment

• Minimum of four Board meetings per year (typically in person, with remote options).
• Monthly meetings with the CEO.
• Availability to support staff and attend key events as required. Occasional sub-committee participation and ad hoc support between meetings.

 Tenure

• The Chairman will serve a term of three years, renewable for a second term.
• A third term may be served by exception, subject to approval by the Board of Trustees.