Volunteering
Our museums and galleries are powered by people - people who care about stories, heritage, and the community that we share.
Volunteers make a real difference in helping us preserve our shared history and inspire future generations. If you have a few hours to spare, you could help make something genuinely meaningful happen.
Who can volunteer
Everyone is welcome.
You don't need specialist knowledge or previous experience. We have a wide range of roles across our sites, from supporting events, caring for our gardens, helping with family activities, and much more. Whatever your interests or background, we can work with you to find a role that feels right for you.
If you do have specialist knowledge or skills, for example in local history, geology, natural sciences, textiles, or another area relevant to our collections, we'd love to hear from you. Volunteers with expertise play an invaluable role in helping us better understand, care for, and interpret our collections. If you think you could offer specialist support, please get in touch and let us know.
We also welcome corporate volunteering. It's a brilliant way for teams to connect, give back to the community, and support the preservation of local heritage.
Why volunteer with us
Volunteering with Kirklees Museums & Galleries is more than giving your time; it's joining a community and helping shape the stories we share.
You can:
- Learn new skills and confidence.
- Gain experience in a museum environment.
- Meet new people and become part of a friendly, supportive team.
- Boost your wellbeing through purposeful, meaningful activity.
- Explore what happens behind the scenes in heritage spaces.
- Help us share incredible stories that inspire visitors of all ages.
Whether you're looking to learn, give back, or simply try something different, your contribution will make a real difference.
What our volunteers say
"I always enjoyed visiting Oakwell Hall. When I got the opportunity to be a volunteer I jumped at the chance. I've worked on various projects with the curator and as a guide in the hall. The staff team are very welcoming and supportive. I feel privileged to share Oakwell Hall's history with visitors."
"The Museums in Kirklees are a wonderful facility, and the residents deserve the amenities they provide. Supporting the staff by volunteering enables more people to enjoy these services. Being involved gives me a sense of purpose. It's therapeutic and helps me feel connected to the community. Volunteers are never lonely."
"I volunteer in the Country Park at Oakwell Hall. It gives me a sense of wellbeing, it's good for the soul. I've made friends, and it keeps me fit. It's good for your mental health and gives me a sense of purpose and helping the community."
Work experience and student placements
We can sometimes facilitate work experience placements or student volunteering opportunities across our sites, but availability depends on staff capacity and the nature of the request.
If you're interested in a placement, please contact workplacements@kirklees.gov.uk with details of your course, requirements, and preferred dates. Our team will let you know what may be possible.
Volunteer roles
Volunteers play an important role in bringing to life the stories of our collections through guided museum tours and at local events.
Volunteers help our staff to run a wide range of educational workshops, events, school visits and activities.
A small number of volunteers are involved behind the scenes working alongside staff to help catalogue and conserve our collections.
Our brilliant team of outdoor volunteers at Oakwell play a crucial role in maintaining the historic country park and gardens.
