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Imperial War Museums
The Imperial War Museum gives voice to the extraordinary experiences of ordinary people forced to live in a world torn apart by conflict.IWM explores conflict and its impact on people’s lives. We collect and share objects and personal stories that reveal real experiences of war, preserving them for future generations and presenting them to today’s audiences in powerful and meaningful ways. We…
Description

About the Imperial War Museum

The Imperial War Museum explores conflict and its impact on people’s lives. We collect and share objects and personal stories that reveal real experiences of war, preserving them for future generations and presenting them to today’s audiences in powerful and meaningful ways. We uncover the causes, course and consequences of war, from the First World War to the present day.

What role do Volunteers play?

We’re proud to involve more than 1,000 volunteers across our five sites. They help bring our stories to life, care for important objects, and create great visitor experiences. Volunteering at IWM is perfect for people who enjoy meeting others and sharing their enthusiasm. You’ll provide a warm welcome, help visitors engage with our collections and respond to visitor queries. You don’t need to be a history expert, just someone who enjoys getting involved and supporting our mission to tell the stories that matter. Our opportunities are meaningful, enjoyable and flexible, so you can give as much or as little time as you like. 

Duties

What will I be doing?

Our volunteers play a vital role in helping us share stories of conflict and its impact on people’s lives. Volunteering with IWM is a fantastic way for students to build confidence and develop their communication skills. It can also be a valuable stepping stone for those exploring careers in museums, heritage, education or public-facing roles more broadly.

What can I gain from Volunteering?

In addition to developing new skills and making a meaningful contribution to our community, our volunteers enjoy a range of exclusive benefits. These include free entry to all IWM sites, as well as complimentary access to many other museums and galleries across the UK through our reciprocal partnerships. Volunteers are also invited to special events throughout the year, from behind the scenes talks and previews to social gatherings with fellow volunteers and staff. 

Training
You will attend a Selection Session, followed by an Induction and buddy session before they begin volunteering. Additional training in specialist volunteer roles such as Hands on History or Schools Meet and Greet can be provided after the initial onboarding process.

No prior experience required! We will give you all the information you need to be successful in this role.

Time commitment

Our opportunities are meaningful, enjoyable and flexible, so you can give as much or as little time as you like.
Application deadline

UCL Departments

This organisation is one of our community partner organisations.

Like all volunteer recruiters we work with, they have signed up to our service standards, agreeing to abide by our policy on partnership working to keep you safe and supported whilst you volunteer.

You’ll never be out of pocket for volunteering through us – with in-London travel expenses to and from your volunteering guaranteed.

In addition, the team here at Students’ Union UCL Volunteering Service is here to support you throughout your volunteering journey – you can get in touch with us at any time.