The world of volunteering by Torri Crapper, Volunteer Programme Manager

Torri Crapper, Volunteer Programme Manager

As a new member of staff I’ve been busy meeting as many volunteers as possible, getting to grips with action plans, the range of volunteering roles available across Clumber Park and the wider portfolio (Mr Straw’s House and The Workhouse at Southwell) as well as attending a range of volunteer meetings – all part of understanding volunteering here at Clumber Park.

Volunteers are an integral part of the team here at Clumber Park and across the portfolio, undertaking roles within admin, learning, the Discovery Centre, estates support, the rangers, gardening teams, within the retail outlets and second hand bookshop, and conducting various walks and activities through out the park. Their contribution, not only in conserving our shared heritage, but also in engaging diverse audiences, sharing their skills and ideas is only one reason why they are so valuable to us. 

A volunteer leading a guided walk

Diverse roles within the park attract diverse people… No role is the same and no reason for volunteering the same! I was chatting to one gentleman the other day who informed me he volunteered to “get away from the wife” now he’d retired! Although surprisingly common as a reason (watch out!) our volunteers ultimately want to help make a difference to the site they love. 

A volunteer at work in the Reading Room bookshop

With such a huge range of roles available we always need those special people who are willing to give up their free time to contribute to this exciting place. http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumber-park/join-in/

Could you be one of those inspirational people?