What is the Activity?

Lotherton has a large collection of Gascoigne family papers and documents given by the family as a resource for research into the social history of the Gascoignes; employees; and estate farms of Lotherton Hall. The Assistant Community Curator is looking for an enthusiastic volunteer who would like to assist in transcribing and researching letters and documents. Volunteers will be helping to make this collection accessible to other museum professionals and those who want to research Lotherton and its occupants. 

What’s in it for you?

Gain experience in collections management. 

Learn how to transcribe and annotate letters and documents

Become part of a friendly community team

Further an interest in local history

What’s involved?

Assist with improving the documentation of the collection and transcripts. 

Help make transcripts of letters and documents.  

Update existing records and creating new records if necessary. 

Assist the Community Curator to create a system that improves access for research purposes. 

Attend training and induction.

The role will suit you if you are enthusiastic, reliable and trustworthy with good written communication and IT skills.  You should have good research skills and attention to detail.  Ideally you will have a keen interest in local social history and an awareness of how museums select and present research. You should be eager to learn about archives and be able to work both with and without supervision when required.  All volunteers should be willing to abide by the Council’s code of conduct. Full training for the role 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. Access at Lotherton | Leeds Museums and Galleries | Days out and exhibitions

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

You will need to have your own transport or be able to travel to Lotherton, which has no direct links to public transport. 

Location: Lotherton, Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB

Time commitment: one day a week

Day: Thursday

Duration: Initially for 6 months

Approximately how many volunteers are we looking for? 1-2 people 

Expenses: Out of pocket travel costs between home and your volunteering place will be paid up to the value of £9 per day (subject to conditions).

Further info: For further information contact Stephanie Davies, Assistant Community Curator Stephanie.1.Davies@leeds.gov.uk

Closing date: Applications must be received by 7^th April 2026. Informal interviews will take place on Wednesday 6^th May 2026. 

Please click on the “Fill in an application” button to register for this role Get Involved - Leeds Museums & Galleries

If you need any help filling in this form, please call 0113 3367840 and ask for the Volunteer and Skills Development Coordinator.

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