Why I volunteer...

Hello, I’m Vicky and I started volunteering last month at Petworth House helping Zoe the Marketing & Media Co-ordinator.  I’m really enjoying my time here meeting lots of friendly people and learning a range of new skills. The team have looked after me and so far I’ve had an induction and also been on volunteers training where I was given an overview of the house, learning all about its history and splendour. I can’t recommend volunteering enough, if you have the time it’s a great way to get involved, improve your CV or just give something back to a charity.  It’s a lovely feeling that I’m helping our heritage.  

Not only do I feel I’m helping a charity, I’ve been involved in loads of fun things from the team meeting, creating posters, writing a blog and helping find free advertising. I really look forward to that one day a week I’m part of the team here at Petworth.  Every time I leave the office I’m always trying to think of new ideas to entice more visitors.

You can be involved in inspiring visitors too, by helping them to discover more about Petworth House in an interesting and enjoyable way.  Whether you get in to a costume from Petworth’s past and bring a character back to life or you assist in the new second hand book shop there is always something exciting to be involved with as a volunteer.

Volunteer interpreters having fun in the Historic Kitchens.

There are many opportunities to match your personality and  fill your day.  Whether you lead visitors on a journey of discovery and adventure through the landscape as a pathfinder or help run workshops and family events as a volunteer learning assistant.  You could even learn about Petworth’s history as one of our tour guides or help with the fundraising for restoration projects.  Any idea big or small I feel is always valued here at Petworth, I’m finding it a fun and exciting learning experience and you too can also be part of something rewarding.  For more information email susan.rhodes@nationaltrust.org.uk.

Richard and Barbara James have been volunteering at Petworth for nearly five years.