Oral History Volunteer - New Opportunity

Looking to learn new skills and meet new people?

Join us as an Oral History Volunteer!

Some gents having a chat in Fryston, taken by Jack Hulme between 1935 and 1955

In 2025, we will open an exciting new Library & Museum in the heart of Wakefield City Centre. The new site will feature innovative and interactive museum galleries, which tell the story of the whole Wakefield district. We want the new galleries to be full of personal stories from local people, told in their own words, so we’re embarking on a large-scale oral history project. We’ll be going out into the community and recording interviews with local people about the stories and experiences that have shaped their lives and our district.

We are looking for Oral History Volunteers to head out into the community to record interviews with local people on a wide range of subjects. You will use audio recording equipment to record your interview, and you will make sure the appropriate paperwork is completed. You will listen carefully and empathetically to local people’s stories and ensure that they feel valued and appreciated. You will also share our plans for the new museum with enthusiasm and passion, helping us to build up excitement for the project.

This opportunity is based in the community. All travel expenses will be reimbursed.  

What will I be doing?

-       Attending training on oral history interviewing.

-       Contacting individuals in the community and setting up appointments for you to visit them or for them to visit one of our sites, depending on their preference.

-       Recording oral history interviews, using audio recording equipment.

-       Completing the appropriate paperwork.

-       Writing short summaries of the interviews you have recorded.

 

What skills, experience and qualities do I need?

-       Interest in museums, collections, history, or art.

-       Excellent listening skills.

-       Accuracy and attention to detail when recording information.

-       A friendly, approachable manner and the confidence to speak to members of the public.

 

How much time will I be expected to give?

-       At least two days per month, but more would be preferable. Exact dates and times are still to be worked out with interviewees, so some flexibility is needed.   

What can I expect from Wakefield Museums & Castles?

-       A rare chance to work on a large-scale museum development project and to listen to the stories and experiences of local people.

-       A welcoming and friendly team of staff and volunteers to work with.

-       Induction, full training, and ongoing support.

-       A named member of staff to provide support and answer questions.

-       An opportunity to develop skills, knowledge, and confidence.

-       A sense of achievement.

The induction programme for this role will include:

-       An overview of Wakefield Museums & Castles, our sites and collections- who we are and what we do.

-       Our volunteer policy and the volunteer agreement (signed by volunteers and their supervisor), including Assignment of Copyright and our Transparency Notice about how we process and protect your personal data.

-       Relevant policies and procedures, including Health and Safety.

-       Full training in oral history interviews, provided by the Oral History Society.

How do I apply?

Please email Leah Mellors, Museums Development Manager, on lmellors@wakefield.gov.uk with any queries or to request an Expression of Interest form.

Expressions of Interest must be returned by Monday 20^th February 2023.

Click here for all of our current volunteering opportunities