Netley Abbey Monitor Volunteer

Standing close to Southampton Water, Netley Abbey is the most complete surviving Cistercian monastery in southern England. After the Suppression of the Monasteries the buildings were converted into a mansion for Sir William Paulet. The ruins now reflect over 800 years of change, during which the abbey was transformed from a monastic house to a mansion house, and later to the romantic ruin that English Heritage cares and conserves for visitors to enjoy today.

Help English Heritage today by becoming a Monitor Volunteer! 

Monitor volunteers play an important role in looking after English Heritage sites and ensuring those sites are safe and well presented for our many visitors. This may mean checking for any issues with the buildings and ruins, the wider landscape, or entry to and from the site. You will help us to better understand and care for our sites by reporting issues and helping to maintain the sites' presentation.

We are looking for:

This role would suit someone living in the local area, who has a reasonable level of fitness and an interest in helping to ensure the site is kept in a tidy condition and that it is safe for visitors to enjoy. Ideally someone who is self-motivated and enjoys working outside. You don't have to have a love of history, but you may enjoy saying hello and engaging with our visitors. 

What will I be doing? 

• Collecting and disposing of any litter found on site, provided it is safe to do so 
• Providing feedback about any problems you find on the site, such as any damage to the buildings
• Maintaining the site's appearance by cleaning signage
• Chatting to any visitors that you see when you are on site
• As far as possible, respond to, or pass on to English Heritage, visitors’ questions regarding the site or its history. You will also direct visitors to the website where they can find further information 
• Other tasks might include replacing the English Heritage flag when damaged

 What can I expect from English Heritage?

• A welcoming and enjoyable experience
• Flexible sessions and are open to discussion
• To be treated fairly and with respect
• Recognition and appreciation for your contribution
• A full site and role induction and training programme with on-going support
• Uniform provided
• Reimbursement of reasonable local travel costs between home and volunteering location within agreed limits
• A certificate to demonstrate work carried out for English Heritage is available on request to show future employers or further education providers
• You will be covered by English Heritage’s own indemnity arrangements in respect of all liabilities that may result from your appointment as a volunteer

To apply today, please register your interest!

Skills

What skills, qualities and experience do I need?     

• This role would suit someone living in the local area, who has a reasonable level of fitness and an interest in helping to ensure the site is kept in a tidy condition.
• You need to be self-motivated and happy to work alone.
• You might have an interest in local history, but this isn’t essential.
• Ideally be able to provide regular availability.