What is the Project?

We are looking for individuals to join a small team of volunteers who will work with us to clean and maintain objects displayed on the Victorian Street at Abbey House Museum

The project will be led by our Conservator and Curators from the site who will support volunteers to handle, clean and maintain objects that are on open display

What’s in it for you?

Gain experience in conservation techniques and handling museum objects

Build knowledge of the history of Abbey House and the shops in the street

Become part of a friendly team

Learning new skills – full training will be given in all aspects of the role

Meeting people from all walks of life and making new friends

What’s involved?

Attending relevant induction training including object handling

Working with a variety of cleaning and conservation materials

Deep cleaning individual objects and the spaces they are displayed

The role will suit you if you are enthusiastic, reliable and trustworthy.  Ideally you will have a keen interest in the social history of Leeds and how to care for the collection.  You should be able to carry out tasks both with and without supervision when required. Volunteers may sometimes be required to wear protective gloves. Due to the nature of the role, and the location, it may be more suited to individuals who are physically agile and with good manual dexterity.

All volunteers should be willing to abide by the Council’s code of conduct. No qualifications or experience is required as full training will be given.  We welcome applications from a range of backgrounds. If you are shortlisted, please tell us if you require any adjustments to be made to enable you to attend.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. 

Location:  Abbey House Museum, Abbey Road, Kirkstall, LS5 3EH 

Day: Monday 10-3 (2025 Dates will be May 12, June 9, July 7, September 15, October 6 and November 10). 

Duration: 6 months with possibility of extension.

Expenses: Out of pocket travel costs between home and your volunteering place will be paid up to the value of £9.00 per day. 

Further info: For further information contact Nicola Pullan, Assistant Curator of Leeds and Social History at nicola.pullan@leeds.gov.uk or Emma Bowron, Conservator, at emma.bowron@leeds.gov.uk

 Closing dates: Sunday 6^th April 2025. You will need to be available for an informal taster session about the role on 28^th April 2025. 

If you are interested, please fill in an online application MyImpactPage - Leeds Museums & Galleries   More details on Leeds Museums and Galleries website About Us Get Involved - Career and Volunteer | Leeds Museums and Galleries   For help filling in this form, please call 0113 3367840 and ask for the Volunteer and Skills Development Coordinator.

If you already volunteer for us, please update your record or send an email to: volunteer@leeds.gov.uk stating what you hope to gain from the opportunity and tell us about any experience you have. 

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