Volunteering
Volunteers are crucial to the work we do and help staff to provide a much wider and richer offer both online and in its outreach work. We have many exciting volunteering opportunities here at the Dean Heritage Centre.
Located in the Forest of Dean villlage of Soudley our five acre site consists of 5 museum galleries, outside displays, arts and crafts exhibitions and a variety of interesting and unique attractions set against a spectacular backdrop.
With grounds work and maintenance, Front of house, Cataloguing our amazing collection and many more, we have volunteer options to suit everyone.
The Dean Heritage Centre was created to provide a home for historical items that illustrate the vibrant and important history and heritage of the Forest of Dean.
Front of house
As the first port of call for visitors, the Front of House volunteer role includes working in the shop, answering visitor enquiries, good customer service skills and encouraging all our visitors to generously donate on entry.
As a popular tourist destination, the Dean Heritage Centre welcomes many people on holiday, as a Front of House volunteer you are among the most visible faces of the charity and contribute hugely to how the public see us and the work we do.
Front of House shifts can be half or full day and are 7 days a week.
Gallery Guide
As a volunteer Gallery guide you will lead visitors through the museum giving them greater insight into the history and people of the Forest. We are looking for volunteers who enjoy interacting with people, sharing their enthusiasm for the Forest of Dean and can give 3 hours a day, one day a week.
cataloguing
This volunteer role, Cataloguing and caring for the collection is a vital activity that ensures the history of the Forest of Dean is never forgotten. Find out more about the collections.
Grounds work and Maintenance
The upkeep of our buildings and five acre woodland site requires a lot of work. Our site manager and maintenance team work hard to keep our paths clear, the site safe and our doors open to visitors in all weather's. A lot happens behind the scenes of the Dean Heritage Centre and this volunteer role is a fantastic opportunity to learn about woodland management and DIY.
Craft and Activities
For this volunteer role we are looking for talented crafters willing to teach their skills in our lovely craft hut. Do you have a special skill in arts and crafts that you would love to share with others ? Then the Dean Heritage Centre would like to hear from you.
Education
We cater, as a key resource, to a wide range of groups from independent researchers to local school students. We are always looking to expand our offering and improve the visitor learning experience. Our education volunteers are hands on and get really involved.
Events
The Dean Heritage Centre always has a busy events calendar. This volunteer role is a great way for individuals who are unable to commit to regular days. We appreciate support at all levels wether it's distributing posters or helping out on the day of a big event.
Charcoal Burn
The annual Charcoal Burn at the Dean Heritage Centre takes place in May and we are always looking for volunteers to help out. Volunteers will assist with a 3 day earthburn to make charcoal at the Dean Heritage Centre. It is an opportunity to find out more about medieval charcoal burning techniques at a very practical level. For more information or to book a place on this years charcoal burn please email edwina.bell@btinternet.com
Why Volunteer
There are many benefits to volunteering. It can teach you valuable job skills and provide career experience. It makes you stand out at interviews and helps potential employers notice you. Volunteering helps you make friends and contacts and connects you to others. It can increase your social and relationship skills, bring fun and fulfillment to your life, as well as increase your self confidence and provide a sense of purpose.
If you are interested in becoming a part of our volunteers team here at the Dean Heritage Centre in any of the categories listed above then please get in touch. Email kirsty@deanheritagecentre.com or call us on 01594 822170 to discuss your interests and availability.