Thank you for thinking of volunteering with us. As a small, independent charity the support of volunteers is so important for what we do and our work with the community.

Why volunteer?

As a relatively new organisation, this is a fabulous opportunity to have something to get stuck into, and really make a difference to shaping the Canalside Heritage Centre. For all volunteering roles there is training and support provided, as a volunteer you will be part of a small friendly team of enthusiastic and dedicated people. Below are just some of the benefits of volunteering with us:

• Meet new people
• Work in beautiful and historic surroundings
• Help to shape our future
• Develop existing skills and learn new ones
• Gain experience in a field you are interested in

We have a range of volunteering roles for you to get involved in which offer varying levels of commitment and skill levels.Before you start volunteering with us you will be given a full induction, be introduced to the team and taken through the role.

To apply to volunteer, please fill in this application form and we will get back to you as soon as possible. If you need any more information before applying please email [email protected] or call 0115 9221773. 

Volunteer roles

Handyperson Volunteer

We receive thousands of visitors throughout the year and to keep the Heritage Centre looking its best, we are seeking a volunteer or volunteers to help with the general maintenance of the building. Tasks include keeping areas tidy and free from litter, small repairs to fittings and occasional painting and decorating - with the site being so popular there is always something to keep a handyperson busy! This role is ideal for someone who likes to get hands-on with previous experience in a similar role.

Tearoom Volunteer

Our busy tearoom is well loved by visitors and is open seven days a week serving a range of drinks and freshly made cakes and hot dishes. It is run by a friendly and dedicated team and we are looking to build this, particularly in our busiest periods. The role includes taking food and drink orders on the till, delivering orders to customers and keeping areas clean and tidy. If you are a people person who is looking for experience in catering or just have spare time you would like to fill this role could be for you.

Walk Leader Volunteer

We run popular guided walks every Tuesday morning and afternoon for people to discover the history, folklore and wildlife of the local waterways. If you love storytelling, are passionate about local history and the outdoors and would like to become one of our volunteer walk leaders, we'd love to hear from you. The walks approximately 2.5 miles and last approximately 2 hours so a fair level of fitness is required for this role. Previous experience in a similar role is desirable but full training will be given.

Welcome Volunteer

Our gift shop stocks a wide range of items, many from local suppliers and is very popular with visitors. We're currently looking for volunteers to help with the day-to-day running of the shop, as well as welcoming visitors to the Heritage Centre and providing information on the history of the Weir Cottages and the Canalside Heritage Centre Charity. This role is perfect for someone with previous experience of working in retail and/or customer services or someone who is looking to develop their skills in these areas.