Museum volunteer volunteer roles

About The Role

Step inside Scott House Museum, the home where Sir Peter Scott lived, worked and helped pioneer the world’s first live wildlife TV broadcasts. Overlooking Rushy Lake which is alive with wild birds, this unique museum captures a remarkable moment in conservation and broadcasting history.

We’re looking for volunteers to help care for the historic interiors, artworks and personal objects that make this house so special. If you love heritage, enjoy hands-on work with fascinating collections and take pride in looking after special places, this role could be for you.

What you’ll do

• Care for historic objects and furnishings to museum standards

• Support conservation cleaning and preventative care

• Monitor conditions and help protect the collection for the future

• Handle intriguing objects with stories to tell

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You'll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. Please note this role is not suitable for Under 18's.

If you are interested in volunteering for WWT but don't wish to apply online, please email us, or give us a call and leave us a message with your name and number. 

Just to let you know, some of our roles are very popular. To help our teams and minimise disappointment for people kind enough to want to support us, we might take roles down before the closing date if we get a lot of applications. If you do miss a role, or are looking for something particular, you can sign up to opportunity alerts. 

We will begin reviewing applications for this role in January as we are busy delivering seasonal events over the festive period. 

About You

Why volunteer with us?

• Help preserve the legacy of Sir Peter Scott and WWT

• Develop specialist conservation and collections care skills

• Volunteer in a historically important house with wonderful lakeside views

• Be part of a friendly, passionate team of people who care about heritage and nature

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you'll love volunteering at WWT

• Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
• Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife - talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake...
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
• Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life

For more information on this unique role, and otheres, and to apply please visit our webapge. 

We look forward to hearing from you! 

Experienced Garden Volunteer

The beautiful, award-winning Memorial Garden behind the Museum of Brands was established in 1990 as a peaceful oasis for those living with HIV/AIDS and using the hospice and other services provided in this building when it was the London Lighthouse. The sheltered garden is described by visitors as ‘a haven’,

‘an oasis’, and ‘a hidden gem’. The garden is looked after by a small group of volunteers and the Gardener who originally developed it, working within a very small budget.

This is a small but complex garden, thoughtfully designed and rich in variety. You’ll find opportunities to work on a wide range of tasks — from detailed pruning and planting to structural maintenance and seasonal care. It’s an excellent setting for anyone looking to gain broad hands-on experience, whether you're training in horticulture or simply want to deepen your skills in a purposeful environment.

We are looking for experienced garden volunteers to support the Gardener with the following:

· General garden maintenance including weeding, pruning, deadheading, and mulching

· Planting and replanting seasonal flowers, shrubs, and small trees

· Watering plants and maintaining irrigation as needed

· Lifting and moving heavy pots, tools, compost bags, and garden waste

· Ladder work for tasks such as trimming hedges, cleaning gutters, or maintaining climbing plants

· Sawing and light carpentry, including pruning larger branches and assisting with minor repairs

· Clearing leaves and debris to keep paths and seating areas safe and accessible

· Maintaining and cleaning garden tools and equipment

What we’re looking for:

· A passion for gardening and some hands-on experience (professional or personal)

· Either a trainee gardener, horticulture student, or someone already working in gardening or landscaping or an experienced gardener wanting to give back through volunteer work

· Willingness to carry out practical tasks, including some lifting and ladder work

· Comfortable working outdoors in different weather conditions

· A positive, team-focused attitude with good attention to safety

What you’ll gain:

· Valuable hands-on gardening experience in a unique, award-winning setting

· The chance to be part of a friendly, purpose-driven team

· The satisfaction of helping maintain a space that’s deeply meaningful to others

Training and support:

You will first be invited for a meeting with our gardener, Gary. Volunteers are given relevant training for any tasks carried out, opportunities for regular feedback and we remain open to suggestions on how we can improve the volunteer experience.

Availability:

Our garden volunteers currently come in together on a Thursday.  However volunteering in the garden can occur on any day while the Museum is open (Monday-Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-5).  We are looking volunteers who can volunteer over a period of at least 3 months.  Ideally you will be able to start immediately, although this is not essential.

Expenses:

Travel expenses up to £5 will be paid, with up to an additional £5 for lunch expenses if you are here for over 6 hours.

Please note: Applicants from some overseas countries are required to have a relevant work permit or student visa to volunteer in the U.K. We’ll need to see this for our records before volunteering can commence.

Volunteer Admissions Assistant

You'll be multitasking throughout the day, with a mix of responsibilities including customer service, ticket sales, promoting Gift Aid donations, shop duties, guiding visitors and providing information about the Museum and the collection. If you enjoy a fast-paced environment and love engaging with people, this is the role for you. 

The Volunteer Admissions Assistant role is all about making a lasting impression and creating a memorable visitor experience. You’ll be:

• Welcoming and engaging with visitors, sharing information about the museum and its collection.
• Selling tickets and gift shop items, ensuring smooth transactions and great customer service.
• Collecting data for Gift Aid and marketing purposes, including how visitors found out about us.
• Creating positive experiences to encourage return visits and word-of-mouth recommendations.
• Helping visitors explore the Museum through interpretation, answering questions and distributing trails, accessibility and family activities.
• Maintaining the gift shop, including restocking, counting stock, and setting up attractive displays.
• Conducting online research and building contact lists to support marketing efforts.
• Promoting the Museum locally, raising awareness and encouraging more visitors to discover what we have to offer!

Who we’re looking for:

We’d like to extend an invitation to anyone, particularly members of the local community.  Full training will be provided, we are looking for anyone with:

• Great customer service skills – you will be friendly and confident about approaching visitors of all ages and backgrounds
• Great communication skills – you will be able to clearly explain information about the Museum and ticketing to visitors
• Good computer skills – with training, you will be able to use our ticketing system, email and Microsoft Office
• Good Sales Skills – you will be able to promote ticket sales and gift shop items as well as encouraging Gift Aid donations
• Multitasking skills – with various responsibilities such as selling tickets, guiding visitors, and managing the gift shop, you will be able to juggle tasks efficiently
• A good telephone manner
• Good team working skills

This role offers plenty of variety, and you'll play an important part in making every visitor's experience unforgettable.

Training and support:

All volunteers will first be invited for a training shift.  We have an induction and training process, during which we give volunteers the information they need to enjoy their time with us. Training is mainly 'on the job', supported by an experienced volunteer as well as the manager on duty. Volunteers are given regular feedback and we remain open to suggestions on how we can improve the volunteer experience. The Admissions Assistant receives continued training and development throughout their time with us.

Availability:

We are looking for volunteers who would ideally like to donate 2-4 shifts per month, weekdays or weekends, either as a 10-1.30pm shift, or a 1.30-5pm shift, for a minimum of 3 months. Ideally, you will be able to start immediately, although this is not essential. Travel expenses up to £5 will be paid, with up to an additional £5 for lunch expenses if you are on a full day shift.

Please note: Applicants from some overseas countries are required to have a relevant work permit or student visa to volunteer in the U.K. We’ll need to see this for our records before volunteering can commence.

Centre Manager

The Teignbridge Heritage Centre is a focal point for recording the history and culture of our local environment.  The museum has a large collection of historical and contemporary artifacts including the remains of the French invasion and sacking of Teignmouth in 1690.  It also offers comprehensive research and archive access to a large collection of historical artifacts and data.

Applications are invited for the post of Centre Manager

This voluntary role is key to the smooth running and viability of the Museum and carries responsibility for most aspects of the day-to-day coordination and administration of the Centre.  Much of the role’s responsibilities can be handled online with a nominal ½ day a week on duty at the Museum.

Ideal applicants will be able to bring business experience and flexibility to handle a range of responsibilities and a team of volunteers.  Well-developed administrative and delegation skills, possibly acquired from a management role in industry or commerce, will be a distinct advantage.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

• A great opportunity to volunteer as Cafe Assistant at a unique heritage site, London Museum of Water and Steam
• Based at the historic Kew Bridge Waterworks the museum tells the story of London's water supply, the site, its people and the amazing pumping engines that helped to make London the city it is today
• Cafe Assistants provide a warm and friendly greeting for all our visitors                                              
•  They should work collaboratively with Visitor Welcome volunteers and Duty Managers
•  Help to prepare hot drinks and snacks and to take responsibility for money handling
• There is an opportunity to gain a Level 1 Certificate in Food Hygiene  

We’re looking for 2 Support group volunteers over the age of 18 years old, based at Horniman Museum,  100 London Road  , Lewisham SE23 3PQ.

You’ll be volunteering every second Tuesday of the month, from 2pm until 4pm.

The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this role.

Independent Visitor: Mentor a young person for 2 – 4 hours per month for at least 1 year.

An Independent Visitor is usually an adult volunteer who befriends a young person in care and develops a long-term friendship with them. This often involves helping young people develop new interests, skills and hobbies or going on outings such as going to the cinema, bowling or just walking in the park.
The aim is to provide support, confidence, and fun experiences outside of the young person’s daily environment. If you are looking for a rewarding role with an organisation that makes a difference in young people’s lives, we want to hear from you.

About the role:
•Visit a young person monthly and become a trusted adult friend to them.
•Build a trusting, consistent and positive relationship with the child.
•Provide a child with the opportunity to try new activities (e.g., cinema, bowling, museums, nature walks, or simply having a chat) and spend time with them away from their placement. 
•Provide visit reports and feedback after visits to help us monitor and improve the service.

In return, we offer a range of benefits including:

• Make a real difference – be a positive, stable influence in a young person’s life.

• Have fun and create memories – enjoy activities while building a meaningful bond.

• Gain valuable experience – develop skills in mentoring, communication and young people’s support.

• Access to training and job opportunities – acquire knowledge and experience in a fun setting. 

• Flexible and rewarding – just a few hours a month can change a life!

You will be allocated a budget for each visit for your travel and activity.

Skills:

• Interpersonal Skills – Ability to easily build rapport and identify with young people from diverse backgrounds.

• Communication – Excellent communication skills and good report writing skills.

• Committed – Willing to commit to a child for at least one year. 

• DBS Check – We will carry out safer recruitment checks, and you will be required to have an Enhanced DBS check.

Our House Experience Volunteers add the sparkle to any visit – giving everyone a warm welcome, bringing stories from Ickworth to life and helping people get the best out of their day. 

 This role will suit you if you are:

• Warm and friendly.
• Someone with a curious and inquisitive nature, with an ability to engage our visitors, ask questions and facilitate conversations.
• Able to listen thoughtfully and actively.
• Someone with exceptional customer service standards- a desire to put visitors before everything else.
• A good storyteller, with a talent for reading body language and thinking on your feet
• Sensitive to visitor and volunteer needs – working as an effective team member.
• Willing to develop your knowledge of Ickworth, its history and vast collections.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Responding to the diverse needs of visitors, including people with additional access needs.
• Sharing inspirational stories, curious facts and practical information or simply the space for visitors to wander at their own pace.
• Helping visitors to discover more, answering questions and making suggestions so they can enjoy their day, their way.
• Being an ambassador for the whole property and the National Trust. Helping visitors understand the full scope of the offer at Ickworth beyond the house.
• Learning more about Ickworth, so you can share your knowledge and stories of the family and their collections with visitors.
• Responding to the changing needs of Ickworth – supporting ongoing interpretation strategies in the House.
• Supporting with health and safety and evacuation procedures if required.
• 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· 

• Become part of a friendly and dedicated team.
  Spend time with us at Ickworth, learn about its history, stories and enjoy its beauty.
• Meet people from all walks of life
• Find an opportunity to use your existing skills and develop new ones.
  Improve your communication skills.
  Get a warm glow by knowing you have made a difference to someone’s day out with us.

 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: Adaptability, Communication Skills, Community Development, Customer Service, Event Support, Exhibition Arts, Fundraising, Interpersonal Skills, Public Relations, Public Speaking, Teamwork, Visual Arts

This friendship group was started to provide opportunities for people with learning disabilities to make friends, go on monthly trips and overall have a lot of fun. You can help us make that happen!

An opportunity is available to volunteer at a friendship group for adults with learning disabilities No prior experience is required. Enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and a supportive attitude are what matter most.

Projects You May Support

Volunteers can choose to help with one or both projects:

1. Friendship Group

• When: Every Tuesday during term time, 1:30pm–4:30pm
• Where: Canning Town Library

Key Responsibilities:

• Supporting participants during various activities (e.g., reading tasks).
• Encouraging communication and helping build friendships.
• Boosting confidence through positive interaction.
• Assisting with setting up and packing away activities.
• Helping individuals get refreshments.
• Building trust through calm, kind engagement.
• Reporting any concerns, incidents, or disclosures to staff.

2. Joy Hub

• When: Usually the last Tuesday of each month during term time (timings may vary; activities announced up to 4 months in advance).
• Purpose: Monthly free outings planned by the Friendship Group—examples include bowling, cinema, theatre, and museum visits.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensuring everyone feels included.
• Encouraging individuals to participate and build confidence.
• Helping with practical tasks such as navigating meeting points, refreshments, and transitions between activities.
• Building rapport through supportive, calm interactions.
• Reporting any concerns or incidents to staff.

Skills You’ll Develop

• Communication: Adapting language, using non-verbal cues, and practising active listening.
• Empathy & Patience: Understanding diverse needs and responding calmly.
• Teamwork: Working collaboratively with staff and volunteers.
• Leadership: Taking initiative while supporting individuals with varying needs.
• Problem-Solving: Managing challenges in a person-centred environment.
• Composure: Staying calm in potentially challenging situations.

Useful Experience (Not Essential)

• Disability awareness
• Knowledge of safeguarding, confidentiality, and disclosure
• Experience supporting vulnerable individuals
• Understanding of neurodiversity and person-centred approaches

Enthusiastic learners are encouraged to apply even without direct experience!

DBS will be provided!

Volunteering as part of our Cycle Hire addition to Ickworth's Visitor Experience, this role is to shape and develop the cycling culture at Ickworth and support with customer service as well as hiring out bikes.

By getting involved you could:

• Join an enthusiastic and varied team and form new friendships 
• Volunteer at this beautiful and inspiring property 
• Enjoy new experiences and learn something new every day 
• Let your personality shine, and build connections with our visitors and wider property team 
• Know you have made a difference to someone’s day out

What's involved:

To support the Cycle Hire Supervisor in the day to day running of the cycle hire hub 

• Meeting and greeting visitors and understanding their requirements
• Following the protocols for hiring and returning bikes 
• Sizing bikes for visitors and supporting with trailer and balance bike hire 
• Helping visitors navigate and plan their cycle route across the estate 
• Basic bike repairs (if you can, training can be provided) 
• Supporting housekeeping, cleanings equipment and facilities for use 
• Developing a cycling culture across the Ickworth Team
• Being part of the ideas team for what else Ickworth can offer as part of our cycling offer 

*As part of this role you will have the opportunity to learn basic cycle maintenance, but it is your choice if you opt in to taking on this training and no one should attempt to fix an Ickworth bike without having this training signed off*

This role will suit you if you:

• Are friendly, cheerful and have a positive outlook to welcome everyone and inspire others 
• Enjoy providing exceptional service 
• Are able to adapt their skills and knowledge to suit different situations and people 
• Have a passion for the outdoors and for helping people access Ickworth and the National Trust

The Institute of Conservation (Icon) is seeking an enterprising and passionate supporter of cultural heritage to chair our Board of Trustees through an ambitious period of growth and change.

This fulfilling role will appeal to a people focused individual, who will welcome the opportunity to actively engage with Icon's membership and the wider heritage sector. We are looking for the skills and ambition to support us as we establish a new strategy to champion conservation and deliver sustainable financial growth to support our charitable objectives.

About the Role 

The Chair’s responsibilities include those of all Icon Trustees, with the additional operational responsibilities:

• Providing leadership to the Board in its strategic and policy role
• Chairing the Board and other meetings to facilitate positive discussion and development
• Ensuring the Board fulfils its legal and charitable responsibilities for the governance of Icon
• Establishing a constructive working relationship with the Chief Executive
• Appraising the performance of the Chief Executive and the Trustees
• Advocating for Icon and conservation via public speaking appointments at Icon events and within the wider heritage sector
• Supporting Icon’s petition for Royal Charter through stakeholder engagement activity

For the full list of responsibilities and information on Icon including its mission and values, please refer to the Chair of the Board of Trustees Recruitment Pack

About You

You will be:

• Committed to Icon’s values and the conservation of cultural heritage
• Committed to the professional ethos that defines Icon and its members
• Able to direct the business of the Board efficiently and effectively
• Skilled in developing and nurturing productive working relationships
• Willing to challenge us and introduce new ways of thinking

You will have experience in:

• Charity or corporate governance
• High level advocacy across a range of media, including public speaking, interviewing and written commentary
•  Successful fundraising and/or entrepreneurial activities
• Delivering organisational growth and future resilience
• Problem solving, building understanding, and fostering collaboration

All trustees must agree to comply with the Trustees’ Code of Conduct. You can find more information about being a Trustee on Icon’s website.

How to Apply

If you would like to be considered for a position on our Board of Trustees, please submit a brief covering letter (no more than one side of A4) explaining why you are interested in the role and highlighting your relevant skills and experience. Please also provide your CV, covering no more than two sides of A4. 

Detailed application instructions can be found on Icon's website.

Applications close on Wednesday 11 February 2026 at 5PM.

Welcoming people out of the cold for a hot drink, or out of the heat for an ice cream, you know exactly what our visitors need as part of their visit to us.

By getting involved, you could… 

• Join an enthusiastic team and make new friends 

• Support visitors to gain the best from their day 

• Learn about our access support equipment and how to welcome support animals in to the café 

• Get the low down on the latest Ickworth bake to share with others 

• Develop your hospitality skills and put them into practice 

• Use your smile and customer service skills, so people feel at home 

• Help us raise money so we continue our work looking after special places 

What’s involved?  

• Meet and greet visitors when they enter the café with a warm smile. 

• Help with queue management and direct visitors. 

• When visitors leave say goodbye and thank them for their visit. 

• Undertake tasks ranging from clearing and preparing tables for the next visitor, to supporting families with pushchairs and wheel chair users navigate the pathways between tables. 

• Use your smile and customer service skills to engage with visitors, share knowledge of the estate and generally enhance their visit

• Have a strong working knowledge of our menu and sharing this with visitors.

• Playing your part to continue our work looking after special places 

• Learning and developing a range of skills such as exceptional service, access support knowledge and sharing what’s on at Ickworth.

This role will suit you if you are:

• Are cheerful and like being around people – you’ll meet a lot at lunchtime! 

• Are looking for a varied role – you’ll be looking after a whole range of visitors 

• Are keen to be part of a team 

• Are good at keeping places looking tidy and welcoming  
  Have a keen eye to detail to notice when a visitor needs help 

• Love chatting about food, new recipes and where our ingredients come from

Family Friends carefully recruits, trains, and matches volunteers with families in Central-West London. Our befriending volunteers offer long-term practical and emotional support based on each family's unique needs and potential. We offer two befriending volunteer opportunities with us-, Big Buddies and Parent Buddies.

Our Big Buddies support young people, aged 10-18, for a few hours each week over a period of 6 -12 months. With encouragement and support, volunteers will aim to help young people to discover their strengths and build confidence.

Support may look like:

• Helping to strengthen family relationships.
• Providing a listening ear 
• Taking young person to the cinema, museums, libraries - broadening their horizons!

Essential Criteria:

• Can commit to the Big Buddies programme for a minimum of 6 months
• 18+
• Must have lived in the UK for the last 2 years

What we provide in return:

• Full induction training and ongoing training
• Full DBS check
• Support and supervision
• The chance to learn new skills
• References provided after 6 months' commitment
• Reimbursement of travel and session expenses

We are an equal opportunities charity and we value the principles of diversity and inclusion, which is central in providing successful support to our families. We welcome and would like to encourage applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, including people from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, people who identify as LGBTQI+ and individuals from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds.

In the first instance, please register your interest in becoming a volunteer with us by contacting us here for an online application form.

Once we've reviewed your application, a member of our team will be in touch with next steps.

By getting involved you could:

• Join an enthusiastic team and make new friends 
• Develop your hospitality skills and put them into practice
• Support the lunch rush be delivering food to people’s tables 
• Support on the counter to help serve soup or cakes
• Sign up to holiday, evening or 1 off events such as Theatre, Proms or other performances that may have an ice cream trike or BBQ on offer
• Be trained on the Food and Beverage Buggy to help deliver stock including freshly baked good to other outlets (being trained on the F&B buggy is an optional choice in addition to usual duties)
• Use your smile and customer service skills, so people feel at home
• Help us raise money so we continue our work looking after special places

What's involved?

• Undertake tasks ranging from clearing tables and serving food to washing dishes and supporting behind the counter. 
• Use your smile and customer service skills to engage with visitors, share knowledge of the property and generally enhance their visit
• Have a strong working knowledge of our menu, including allergen information, and sharing this with visitors, though any allergy questions should be asked to a team leader, with the support of our allergen book.
• Playing your part to continue our work looking after special places 
• Joining an enthusiastic team and making new friends
• Learning and developing a range of skills such as food safety, barista and exceptional service.
• There’s also potential to get involved with the Food & Beverage events calendar.
• You can also opt in to Food and Beverage Buggy training to help deliver freshly baked goods to other outlets on site.

This role will suit you if you are:

• Are cheerful and like being around people – you’ll meet a lot at lunchtime! 
• Are looking for a varied role – you’ll be juggling tasks as well as trays of food
• Are keen to be part of a team
• Are good at keeping places looking tidy and welcoming
• Have a keen eye to detail to notice when a visitor needs help
• Love chatting about food, new recipes and where our ingredients come from