Volunteer roles for the Arts, Culture and Heritage sector

See inside our Collections storage facility - closed to the public - and help us prepare to move our collection to a new facility

What is an Inventory volunteer?

The RAF Museum has many items in its collection which are not currently on display. Our inventory volunteers will ensure that we have an up-to-date record of all the items in our reserve collection, their purpose and condition, to help us prepare to move from our current store outside Stafford to a new storage facility in Cosford. This is a weekday only opportunity.

This role sits within the RAF Museum’s Midlands Development Programme which will transform our museum and our impact on the local community through a series of phased projects – engaging audiences who may not obviously identify with the RAF story by finding common interests and histories which link them. As part of this project, we are planning a new learning centre, outdoor spaces, collections hub and major exhibition.

What will I be doing?

The Inventory Volunteer role could encompass various tasks, which might include:

· Assessing objects’ condition

· Measuring and weighing items

· Undertaking cleaning as required

· Object photography

This role is perfect for you if you…

· Are curious and eager to learn

· Pay attention to detail

· Have a light and careful touch

· Are happy working as part of a team

· Are organised and able to keep accurate records

How much time would I need to commit?

Ideally a half day (09:00 to 12:00 or 13:00 to 16:00) once a week, although other arrangements can be considered on a case-by-case basis. We would ask that volunteers commit to a minimum of 20 volunteering sessions. This is a weekdays only opportunity.

What's in it for me?

· Becoming part of a great team of volunteers and staff

· See and handle objects from the RAF Museum’s collection not on public display

· Learn about object conservation

· Discover more about the history of the RAF

· Gain behind-the-scenes experience within the heritage sector

· 25% discount at our retail outlets and café[KS1] 

· Travel expenses reimbursed up to £14.50 per day, in line with our policy

· Free entry to a wide range of museums and heritage sites across the UK.

An accredited museum and award winning visitor attraction, Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is a charity and the largest surviving Great War Aerodrome in Europe.

We are a centre for volunteering and, with the assistance of over 100 volunteers, we deliver an extensive programme of educational and fundraising events each year designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of visitors including historians, aviation enthusiasts, school parties and families. 

We are looking for volunteers to help in our beautiful 1917 Airmen’s Mess Café with views over the aerodrome and the wildlife that thrives there. It is the heart of our site and popular with all our supporters and volunteers.

We open to the public, most Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Hours are flexible but are mainly worked on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays when we are open to the public.

Come and join our friendly team under the capable management of our experienced Kitchen Supervisor.

No previous catering experience is needed as training will be given.

Are you:

• Friendly and welcoming
• Willing to engage with our visitors 
• Happy to work as part of a small but busy team
• Punctual and reliable
• Flexible and happy to take on a variety of tasks including use of a simple till system

This role could be perfect for you!

Internationally renowned Eyam Museum in the Peak District, Derbyshire, is looking for an experienced finance professional to take on the voluntary role of Treasurer. The successful candidate will join our friendly Board of Trustees and will have oversight of the financial operations and decisions of the organisation - which includes a museum shop - to ensure that funds are managed responsibly and in accordance with priorities.

Museum finances are administered by a qualified part-time Finance Officer who oversees day-to-day payments and receipts, payroll and pension, bank reconciliations and monthly financial reports, and who will support the Treasurer in their role. We are looking for someone who has the experience to advise the other trustees on financial and treasury matters, oversee the setting of an annual budget (c.£150.000) and monitor performance against that budget, playing an active part in the decision making of the trustee body. The Treasurer will also facilitate the annual auditing of accounts.

While emphasising the skills required for these responsibilities, we particularly encourage applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds who are likely to be underrepresented on our Board. We are ideally looking for someone living within easily commutable distance to Eyam.

Eyam Museum’s primary purpose is to tell the story of Eyam Plague (1665 – 66). It is a highly successful organisation - well run, financially secure with substantial reserves and widely respected within the sector. Visitor numbers have quickly returned to pre-COVID levels (at c. 36,000 in 2024) and the organisation is a vibrant and energising place for visitors, staff and Trustees alike. The Museum is a charity and a limited company with a retail arm which is a wholly owned subsidiary company.

The Museum is currently undertaking an ambitious Options Project looking at how best to develop our audiences, collections, retail operation and the building in which they are housed. We are working with professional consultants and received a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant to undertake this work. The project will complete in summer 2025. This is an exciting time to join and to help shape the Museum’s development over the next few years.

This is a voluntary role for a candidate who is willing to participate actively, using their skills and experience to help drive the museum’s vision through exceptional governance.

Further Information

We hold monthly management committee meetings which include both Trustees and key museum employees (the Museum Manager, Curator and Retail Manager). Trustee-only meetings, including the AGM, are usually appended to these Meetings. Trustees are expected to attend a proportion of these meetings in person, joining via Zoom for the remainder. The meetings are held in the evening. Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed. Appointments are initially for three years, renewable.

If you think you have the skills and expertise we are looking for then we would love to hear from you.

Federation of Scottish Theatre (FST) have an exciting new opportunity to join their Board of Trustees. In a bold step toward broadening our vision and impact, FST recently updated our governing documents to welcome Non-Executive Directors from outside our membership. This change opens the door to fresh ideas, diverse expertise, and valuable insights from beyond the arts—strengthening FST’s leadership and enriching our work. We are particularly interested in candidates with backgrounds in finance, public policy and research, and legal and/or finance. 

FST are actively working to build a Board and staff team that reflects the richness and variety of the communities we serve, believing that diversity fuels creativity and strengthens leadership. We’re looking for curious, and collaborative thinkers—people who bring different perspectives and challenge the status quo. We particularly welcome applications from people of colour, gender-diverse individuals, disabled people, and others whose voices have historically been underrepresented in our sector. This is a space where your voice matters—and will be heard.  

What’s Involved 

The Board of Trustees work on a voluntary basis and meet four times a year. We welcome candidates from all over Scotland and can facilitate online attendance at meetings as required.   

Role of a Trustee:  

1. To play a key role in the development of the FST vision, contributing to the strategic leadership, sound management and proactive development of the organisation.  

1. To ensure that the FST principles of good and proper governance continue to be upheld, and to fulfil duties and responsibilities in line with the organisation’s Memorandum and Articles of Association.  

1. To ensure that FST protects its future through robust policies, risk management, accounting procedures, internal controls and systems and to ensure that these are audited and reviewed in line with all regulatory and legal requirements.  

1. To attend and contribute to Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting.  

1. To work closely with the Chair and all other Trustees and to advise on major issues to the Board as required.  

1. To work constructively with the Chief Executive, and as appropriate with senior management and the wider staff, to ensure that FST delivers on its core vision, mission and business plan.  

Additional information about the responsibilities of being a Trustee can be found on the website of Scottish Charity Regulator - more information in the job pack.

What We’re Looking For 

We are looking to recruit two Co-opted Board members over the coming months.   

Following a recent review of Board membership, we have identified the need for new Trustees and are looking for candidates with skills and experience in each of the following areas:  

• Financial – Strong financial background, ideally with expertise in charity and not-for-profit accounting and experience working with small charities 

• HR/Legal - Senior level experience in HR and/or the legal landscape surrounding employment with knowledge of of best practices in people management, organisational culture, and employment law—particularly within the charity or arts sector 

• Public Policy and Research - Senior experience in public policy and research, ideally within Scotland. For example, you may have worked on developing policy positions, conducting sector-specific research, or creating tools to influence change at a national or local level 

As well as the skills and experience aligned to one of the two candidate opportunities described above, we expect all Board members to embrace the following qualities :  

1. An understanding of (or willingness to learn) the culture sector  

1. Advocacy experience  

1. Sound analytical and problem-solving skills  

1. Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of colleagues and stakeholders  

1. An understanding of access, inclusion, diversity and equal opportunities issues  

1. Experience of working effectively as part of a team, project group or committee  

1. Good, independent judgment  

1. An ability to think creatively  

1. Awareness of risk and the need to balance ambition with sustainability  

1. Ability to conduct oneself with integrity, objectivity, and honesty  

Recruitment timeline   

The deadline for applications is 10am on Tuesday 22 July 2025.   

You will receive a response from FST by 6pm on Friday 25 July 2025.   

Interviews will be held from w/c 28 July onwards depending on individual candidates' availability.  

The International Council of Museums in the United Kingdom (ICOM UK) is seeking a new trustee with strong financial acumen and a passion for the museums and heritage sector and working internationally to be the Finance Lead on our Board. This is a strategic finance role to support the Strategic Director and advise the Board of Trustees in respect of the conduct of the charity’s financial affairs.  

The role requires experience and skills in financial planning and management, preferably in a charity and/or company, along with the ability to understand and communicate the impact of decisions on the organisation’s finances. 

We welcome applications from professionals with the skills, knowledge and lived experience that will strengthen and diversify our Board. 

 For further details on the roles and ICOM UK, you can view our Finance Lead Trustee Recruitment  Pack. 

Description
Step into the Peace of War universe and help us bring comics to life at Comic Con and beyond! We’re looking for passionate volunteers who love social impact, comics, and creativity.

As part of our team, you might:

• Cosplay as one of our original characters

• Interview fans and creators for our YouTube and TikTok

• Ask thought-provoking questions about comic themes and social issues

• Join us in filming, editing, and boosting content during Comic Con

• Help drive conversations about the issues we explore — from identity to mental health to social media culture

This is more than just volunteering. It's a chance to build your portfolio, grow your network, and help shape the future of purpose-driven comics in the UK. Whether you’re a student, aspiring creator, or just love what we do — we’d love to hear from you.

Be part of something powerful. Be part of Penificent.

The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre is one of London’s leading producing houses. We produce world class theatre from the heart of Hammersmith. The Lyric is committed to being part of the community, and we believe passionately in excellence and integrity in everything we do.

The Lyric’s Nomination Committee is seeking a new Chair for Lyric Hammersmith Enterprises Ltd, who will also serve as a Trustee of Lyric. The subsidiary is governed by a non-executive Board of Directors, chaired by this role.  Lyric Hammersmith Enterprises is responsible the Lyric’s non-charitable trading operations including catering, hires and events. Our commercial income is critical to helping the Lyric achieve its artistic and charitable objectives.

We are looking for a Chair with influence and authority, strategic thinking and sound judgement with particular expertise in commercial operations and income generation. You will need to share a passion for our artistic work and our commitment to being an equal, diverse, inclusive and environmentally sustainable organisation.

This role will serve as a Trustee to the charity, joining the existing Board for an initial three-year term. Trustees support the Chair, Lorraine Heggessey, and offer their expertise and guidance to the Executive Team.

We are particularly interested in those who have a strong connection with West London.

At Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall, we rely on our incredible volunteers to showcase the history of this magnificent building to our paying customers.
We look for people who have great enthusiasm, who love to meet other people and have a talent for igniting a spark in others.
Do you have the confidence to hold court in front of a group of people? do you have a fascination with Tudor history or Shakespeare? do you enjoy spending your free time volunteering with groups of likeminded, passionate individuals? Well this opportunity could be the right one for you.
Our guides are on hand to move people around the building and answer their questions as well as giving a short, engaging presentation. Don't worry if you don't know too much history at the moment - we will teach you all of it. All that we ask is that you are a good public speaker and that you have positive, can do attitude.

Background

The Merchant’s House in Marlborough is a beautifully restored 17th-century silk merchant’s residence, offering a rare glimpse into the town’s rich history. Operated by The Merchant’s House Trust, our mission is to preserve and share this unique inheritance, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the community far into the future. We are dedicated to engaging visitors and locals alike through educational programmes, events, and exhibitions that celebrate Marlborough’s cultural legacy in the context of the broader national story in which it is rooted. In the words of our motto ‘local heritage, national treasure’.

Your role

The Chair of The Merchant's House Trust leads the Board of Trustees, ensuring the effective governance of the charity and supporting the Trust Manager in delivering its strategy and purpose. The role is voluntary and non-remunerated, ideal for someone passionate about local heritage and community engagement. As a small friendly team, we are looking forward to welcoming a Chair who will bring fresh eyes to our plans for the next exciting phase in the life of this very special local charity.

The Reader is recruiting volunteers to lead Shared Reading groups in Runcorn and Widnes within Liverpool City Region

Volunteer opportunities have arisen to train as a group leader with the UK’s largest Shared Reading charity based in Liverpool. 

The Reader is recruiting volunteers to lead community Shared Reading groups at Halton Lea Library on Fridays, 2pm - 3.30pm which is open to all, while also welcoming speakers of other languages, and a second ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) group at Widnes Library on Wednesdays, 12.30pm - 1.30pm (beginning September 2025), to support their wellbeing. 

At Shared Reading groups, people connect and share experiences using stories and poems. There is no pressure to talk or read aloud.

Why Volunteer at The Reader? 

As a Volunteer you will receive in-depth training, as well as ongoing support from the charity, both online and at our home in The Mansion House, Calderstones Park. You will also become part of a thriving community of ‘Reader Leaders’ who lead groups across the city and the country. 

Group leaders extend the charity’s mission to take Shared Reading to those who need it most. The Reader’s aim is to create an atmosphere of inclusivity where everyone feels at home. Applicants do not need to be a literature expert. Anyone is welcome to apply. 

100% of new community volunteers would recommend volunteering with The Reader (2024)

What can you gain from being a volunteer at The Reader? 

• Make a meaningful difference to others. 
• Deepen your personal experience of reading. 
• Be part of a passionate volunteer community. 
• Contribute to building a more connected and inclusive society. 

The Reader is looking for someone with:  

• A passion for bringing diverse people together in their community. 
• Empathy, patience, the ability to listen and to hold a range of perspectives. 
• A desire to explore a range of literary texts and genres. 
• Reliability and commitment to leading a regular Shared Reading group.

FoBV are looking for a new Chair of Trustees. This individual will lead the board and be responsible to its members, ensuring that it governs the charity effectively, and in accordance with the charity’s vision, goals and charitable purposes. while also being an ambassador for the charity.

About Us

Friends of Bennerley Viaduct (FoBV) is a community organisation based in Derbyshire formed in 2015 with the purpose of safeguarding the Bennerley Viaduct Grade II* listed structure and its surrounding environment. Since 2019, when the organisation became a CIO, it has grown thanks to funding which led to the building of full access onto the viaduct, a new visitor centre and café and the development of an activity programme encompassing both formal and informal learning.

Chair role

· Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the Board, ensuring that FoBV achieves its charitable purposes and goals.

· Work in partnership with the Board, Operations Director and team to achieve our shared objectives.

· Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation.

· Optimise the relationship between the board and FOBV staff, members and volunteers.

· Plan and chair the board meetings and the AGM, with others as appropriate.

· Act as a spokesperson and advocate for FOBV.

What we are looking for
Essential

● Experience of being a trustee.

● A keen sense of strategic purpose.

● An inclusive leadership style.

● The ability to listen and engage effectively. You are comfortable with challenge and debate and are able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative environment.

● Advocate - be able and willing to champion FoBV work through personal networks, social media, and other channels.

● A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

● Be responsive

In addition to the above, the Chair will have the responsibilities and qualities of all trustees:

Responsibilities of all trustees

● Support and provide advice on FoBV purpose, vision, goals and activities.

● Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

● Oversee FoBV financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress, with the support of the Trustee Treasurer.

● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

● Ensure that key risks are identified, monitored and controlled effectively in conjunction with the Trustee Board.

● Provide support and challenge to the Operations Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

● Keep abreast of changes in charity law and regulations as appropriate

● Attend six Board meetings a year and be adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

● Contribute to the broader promotion of FoBV charitable objects, aims and objectives by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

 Essential qualities and attributes of all trustees

● Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.

● Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

● Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

● A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

● Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

● Willingness to lead according to our values

● Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

● Trustees are appointed for a 3-year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 9 years.

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable travel expenses etc. will be reimbursed

Two Rhythms is an accessible arts charity that changes lives through music and movement. Utilising our unique, therapeutic programmes, we deliver long-lasting health and wellbeing benefits to people with profound disabilities, enabling expression, connection and joy.

We are looking for new Trustees to join our board and help lead the charity through an exciting new phase.

From our base in the Wales Millennium Centre, we welcome people of all ages with a broad range of physical and mental health needs. We support them with breathing techniques, massage, music, dance, and relaxation. Every session is unique and tailored to the needs of our guests. We love what we do and the difference we make. 

In late 2024, Two Rhythms opened and expanded to a second site in Cardiff, and is focused on growing its impact as well as developing its income generation potential, forging collaborations and taking advantage of new opportunities.

The board is particularly keen to hear from candidates with specialisms in Finance and Safeguarding though we welcome applications from all professional backgrounds. Knowledge of the arts and culture or health and social care sectors is advantageous but not essential. All Trustees are expected to advocate for the charity and our goal of enriching the lives of disabled people through music, movement, touch, light, and colour.

To apply, please send a CV and cover letter using the contact details provided. If you would like an informal discussion with the CEO prior to your application, please get in touch.

The Fourth Choir is seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join the board managing our LGBTQ+ charitable entity and arts organisation.

The choir was founded in 2013 to give professional and non-professional LGBTQ+ singers and allies the opportunity to sing a cappella choral music to the highest standard possible, and since then has since performed more than 100 times in over 40 venues.

Fostering a fully inclusive musical environment is at the heart of what we do, and we work to affirm the identities of our members, support their wellbeing, challenge stereotypes and explore innovative themes through our activities and concert programming.

The choir is a registered charity and incorporated as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). We are governed and managed by a small board of trustees, all of whom are currently active singers with the choir. As well as governing and directing the strategic development of the choir, our trustees also manage ongoing operations, with each taking a lead role for a particular function.

We employ a professional Musical Director, who is responsible for our programming and musical leadership, and also work on occasion with a roster of Guest Conductors.

To continue building upon the success of our first decade, we are seeking to recruit external trustees to a number of key positions, who can bring external perspective, experience in key areas and help to build the capacity of our management team.

Roles we are looking to fill include:

Treasurer

Responsibilities

• Prepare annual financial report for the Charity Commission
• Keep records of income and expenditure and report on profit and loss position of events
• Pay invoices for professional fees and services

Preferred experience

• Bookkeeping experience in a business or nonprofit capacity
• Experience using accounting software such as Xero

Secretary

Responsibilities

• Keep accurate minutes of planning and board meetings
• Manage schedule of planning meetings
• Potentially take on additional organisational responsibility, such as venue bookings

Preferred experience

• ​Prior experience with minuting meetings and following up with agreed actions
• Highly organised and collegiate

Philanthropy Lead

Responsibilities

• Identify and apply for grant opportunities and report on activities
• Develop sponsorship relationships with corporate and individual donors
• Manage our communications with and offers to significant donors

​Preferred experience

• ​Experience managing and growing a giving program for a charity
• Successfully sourced grant funding and/or corporate sponsorship

What is the Access Advisory Group?

We want to be able to share the Royal Air Force (RAF) story with everyone, including those living with all kinds of disability, visible or hidden. Our Access Advisory Group is a group of volunteers who meet to support and advise the RAF Museum to ensure access for all. Examples of previous areas of group input include new exhibitions to commemorate the centenary of the RAF and the access information available on our website.

What will I be doing?

• Attending meetings a few times a year, which you can opt to attend either online or on site,

• Giving the Museum your opinion and advice on matters relating to access,

• Contributing to tangible improvements and changes at RAF Museum London.

 This role is perfect for you if you…

• Live/have lived with a disability or have an understanding of living with a disability, or live with dementia or are supporting/have supported someone living with dementia,

• Have an interest in museums and a commitment to making museums accessible,

• Have the ability and willingness to use your experience to help us improve access throughout the Museum,

• Are committed to attending three meetings per year either online or at the RAF Museum in Hendon.

How much time would I need to commit?

The group meets three times per year (on dates agreed in advance). You can opt to attend on site or online. Meetings last for approximately two hours and are usually held during Museum opening times (10am – 5pm). We may also send occasional emails asking for advice and opinions.

Generally meetings are held every four months. Our address in London is Grahame Park Way, NW9 5LL.

What happens next?

Once you have completed the form to show your interest, we will email you with the date of the next meeting. Having attended this meeting, you could then decide if this group is for you.

Expectations

• Attend three meetings per year

Benefits

• Help heritage to be accessible to all,

• Become part of a great team of volunteers and staff,

• Gain behind-the-scenes experience within the heritage sector,

• Discover more about the history of the RAF,

• 25% discount at our retail outlets and café,

• Free access to flight simulator, 4D and virtual reality experiences,

• Travel expenses reimbursed up to £14.50 per day, in line with our policy,

• Free entry to a wide range of museums and heritage sites across the UK.

Contact

Please apply by clicking the Apply Now button on this page.