Collections Volunteer

Epping Forest District Museum tells the story of the people and events that have shaped the district through thousands of years of history. Volunteers are essential in helping us deliver a quality service to our local and surrounding communities and in providing essential care for our collections.

We are looking for collections volunteers who can assist in the collections team in improving the long-term storage, care, and documentation of the museum collection. This role would suit someone who is happy working as part of a team, interested in the history of Epping Forest District and able to work practically and carefully with a variety of historic materials.

Responsibilities (may include but are not exclusive to)

·       Digitise collection material using a scanner (e.g. photographs, documents).

·       Repack collection objects to museum storage standards.

·       Input collections information onto the museum’s computer database.

·       Assist with basic object conservation including the cleaning and re-packing of objects.

·       Assistance in researching objects, people, and events for museum exhibitions and for the museum’s social media.

Opportunities

·       First hand practical experience working with museum collections.

·       Relevant in-house training and access to other training opportunities

·       Become part of a friendly and dedicated team.

·       Meet other people.

You will need to complete our induction training programme before you fully begin your volunteer role. This involves core training in Health and Safety, Safeguarding, Equality and Diversity and Disability Awareness.

Additional training includes object handling and packing and an introduction to documentation.

What skills do I need?

Requirements

·       Good manual dexterity, hand-eye-coordination and careful handling of objects is essential.

·       A patient and methodical approach to working.

·       Confident in the use of IT (including Microsoft Office packages such as Word, Outlook, and Excel)

·       Able to work independently or as a team.

·       An interest in museum collections and how to communicate their stories to our visitors.

·       A passion for history and the Epping Forest District.

·       A positive and cheerful attitude towards all our visitors, volunteers, and staff.