Volunteers who have a passion for local history or research help us to conserve our county’s heritage for future generations.
We collect, preserve and make accessible historic and current records of significance for the study of North Yorkshire and its people and hold them in trust for the use of present and future generations. The archives we hold date from the 12th century to the present day and cover over five miles of shelving. Most of these collections can be freely consulted in our public search room.
As a volunteer you will be based at the Archives in Malpas Road, Northallerton, transcribing and organising records, gathering oral histories and helping at open days and family history events. From time to time specific projects come up which our volunteers can also get involved with, so if you have a special interest or skill please do let us know and we can talk to you about any new projects on the go.
If you are interested in local history or have existing skills you don’t want to lose, this is an opportunity to get behind the scenes and play your part in conserving a wealth of heritage materials. If you are interested in a future career in this field, this is your chance to find out more about it and to gain new skills and experience. You will be supported by an experienced member of staff and will be given a full introduction to your role.
Volunteers come with varying level of previous experience or skills. All volunteers should have an understanding of the need to take care of resources and pay attention to detail.
For some of the work, some confidence in using computers and other equipment will be needed. We aim, where possible, to find you a role that matches your ability and skills.
You can give as much or as little time as you would like. Some roles need to be undertaken at agreed times but others are more suitable for those who like to work on their own and at their own pace. While project-related volunteering roles are often time-limited, other roles have the scope to continue long term.
When you start we will give you an introduction to the Archives and appropriate training for the role you want to do. You will be linked with a named member of staff who will support you while you are volunteering and regularly check in with you to help with any questions or problems.
This post does not need a DBS check.
We will ask you to fill in an application form and will check your identity (usually by showing your driving licence or passport). We will ask you to provide the details of two people who can give a character reference. Your referees should have known you for two years and must not be a family member. We will also ask you to confirm that you are fit enough to take on your chosen role and to let us know of any disability or medical information you feel may affect your volunteering, of for which we can provide some extra support where possible.
We are not currently looking for volunteers in this area.