Researcher Visits Volunteer

Purpose

To support the day-to-day facilitation of researcher visits to the collections held at the Research Centre located at Preston North End Deepdale Stadium.

Main areas of responsibility

• Welcoming and assisting researchers during their visits

• Locating and preparing relevant items from the collection in advance

• Ensuring safe handling and return of objects after use

• Supporting staff with documentation and tracking of research enquiries

• Working within the Volunteer Agreement guidelines and related organisational policies (Safeguarding, Health and Safety, and Security)

Time commitment

This role requires a commitment of one day per week on Tuesdays, for a six-month period. After this time, we will recruit new volunteers to ensure a range of people have the opportunity to contribute and gain experience.

What skills do I need?

Skills/characteristics required

• Curious and research-minded – interested in supporting historical research and engaging with archival materials

• Friendly and approachable – able to welcome researchers and provide helpful guidance during visits

• Organised and attentive – comfortable managing schedules, preparing materials, and maintaining accurate records

• Responsible and respectful – understands the importance of handling heritage items with care

• Clear communicator – able to liaise confidently with staff and researchers, and ask questions when needed

• Digitally literate – confident using computers for cataloguing, data entry, and managing visit documentation (training provided)

When do I need to be available?

Details

Training and support All volunteers will receive a comprehensive induction to the programme, covering key policies and procedures including health and safety, safeguarding, and fire evacuation. Role-specific training will also be provided to ensure volunteers feel confident and well-prepared. This includes guidance on object handling, using the Modes cataloguing system, and best practices for working with collections and researchers. Benefits of volunteering • Develop skills and experience to enhance your CV • Become part of a friendly team of like-minded people • Help to share the Research Centres amazing collection with people from all walks of life • Be part of the Research Centre’s journey moving forward. Health and safety/security • Ensure that you are aware of all necessary museum policies and procedures • Ensure that you comply with all statutory requirements including Health and Safety Act • Ensure that you comply fully with museum security and audit policies and procedures Prospective volunteers will be able to demonstrate: • That they can make meaningful contribution to our purpose to share why Football Matters • Volunteers must also display behaviours that are in line with our core values. The values that inform all of our activity at the museum are; 1.Enjoying 2.Celebrating 3.Unifying 4. Exploring 5.Evolving An integral part of our social purpose is to promote equality, and we will be actively seeking applications from all underrepresented groups.

Where does this role take place?