Interested in volunteering?
Volunteers not only help us to inspire people with our story, they ensure the heritage centre remains a long-term community asset. They are a vital part of our team, whether welcoming visitors, serving in the café, acting as a gallery guide, researching and curating an exhibition, delivering an event or doing odd jobs.
People volunteer with us for a whole host of reasons:
Some volunteer opportunities are listed below.
WELCOME DESK AND GALLERIES
Volunteers at the font of house give a warm welcome to all visitors, whether they are heading towards the café for coffee and cake or the galleries to view our latest exhibition or find out about the history of the building, the Fish Quay and North Shields. There may be tickets to sell and questions to answer.
In the heritage gallery and when there is an exhibition on the top floor, volunteers act as guides, helping people to make the most of their visit and answering their questions.
Any necessary training is provided.
Cafe
The café serves hot and cold drinks and a range of delicious snacks including sandwiches, scones and cakes. Volunteers receive any specific training that might be needed, for example to work the till or coffee machine and work alongside the small staff team. They support food preparation, serve behind the counter, make hot drinks, take food and drinks to customers’ tables inside and outside on the terrace and clear and clean tables. They also help to keep the kitchen clean and tidy.
They also take payment for cards, books, local crafts and artworks that are on sale in the shop.
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
The heritage centre usually offers a varied programme of activities, many organised and delivered by volunteers. We have volunteers who are experts in local history, heritage, the natural environment and wildlife, who lead walks and talks. Some volunteers have contacts in the music world and they organise – and sometimes take part in – concerts which vary from singing by community choirs to chamber music. Other volunteers are keen gardeners and organise plant stalls. No matter what the event, whether is it led by a volunteer or an external guest, there are always volunteers on hand to help with its smooth running.
EXHIBITION RESEARCH AND CURATION
We have an annual programme of exhibitions which celebrate the story of North Shields and the Fish Quay. The majority of these are researched and curated by small groups of volunteers who have become very experienced in these roles and deliver award winning exhibitions. They include people from different working backgrounds with a range of skills including teaching, graphic design, photography, writing and communications, all of which help us to produce informative and professional exhibitions, enjoyed by people of all ages. Volunteers also make contacts with relevant local organisations and groups to ensure broad involvement in our exhibitions.
Interested in volunteering?
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