Frequently Asked Questions

Volunteering FAQS Mainpage
What is your recruitment process?

Follow these seven simple steps to get involved.

Click here to download a PDF of the above chart.

Click here to download a text only version of the above chart.

Who can volunteer and how do you select?

Everyone. Our decisions on who we involve and the role they do is based first and foremost on their skills, experience and merits; matching motivations and expectations.

We are committed to applying our equal opportunities policy at all stages of a volunteer’s involvement.

We welcome applications from people of all interests, abilities, backgrounds and communities.

Why should I join you as a volunteer?

Volunteering with us gives you the opportunity to discover more about our Museums, get close to a unique and nationally important collection, make friends, see behind the scenes, and develop your skills. As a volunteer, you will also receive:
• Discount in our shops and cafes
• Annual volunteer recognition event
• Reciprocal site visits between London and Cosford
• Travel and food expenses reimbursed in line with our policy

I’m living with a disability; how can I volunteer?

All our roles require different abilities, and we will make reasonable adjustments to help you take part. Please let us know about any adjustments you may need. If you see a role you like, please apply and we can agree the best way forward. If you have specific concerns, please get in touch.

Our buildings are fully accessible for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs.

I have a criminal record, can I still volunteer?

We have a policy to consider people who have criminal records for volunteering roles. We ask you to inform us of any unspent convictions before you start volunteering, so we can ensure the role is a suitable match. All roles are risk assessed accordingly.
Please see our recruitment process for further details about when you will need to declare the conviction.

How old do I need to be to volunteer?

Our standard lower age for volunteering is 16 years old, however with the right safeguards, working practices and procedures in place, we are able to involve volunteers as young as 14 years old unaccompanied, if they are a part of a recognised group. We do have some roles that are only open to 18 years plus.

If you are looking for a work experience placement, please visit here for more information.

Do I need to be an expert about the RAF?

For most roles, whilst a knowledge and experience of the RAF is beneficial, it isn’t crucial as you can learn about this as you go. If this is crucial, we will state this on the role description.

Do I need experience in Museums or the role I’m interested in to be a volunteer?

Not at all. Some roles require you to have particular skills and knowledge. The role description for each volunteering opportunity will tell you what kind of experience is required. Most roles just need your time and enthusiasm.

All volunteers will have an induction and, if needed, you will also get specific training for your role. Staff members are always on hand to provide ongoing help and support during your time volunteering with us.

How much time do I need to give?

We have a variety of volunteering opportunities – some that you can do from home, ad hoc when you have time or weekly/fortnightly/monthly on various and set days. All our role descriptions will describe the type of commitment we are seeking. Our offer is wide ranging, so we are confident you will find something to help us with. All information about our available roles can be found on our website. If you can’t find a role that matches your availability, you can join our mailing list to receive email notification for all new volunteering opportunities relevant to the location you want to volunteer.

I can’t find a suitable role. Am I still able to help?

We recruit to advertised roles, as we want to ensure you have a great experience. Please keep an eye on our website or join our mailing list to receive email notifications for all our new volunteering opportunities.