Volunteer: Adam Lowe

When were you a museum volunteer?

2 weeks in 2009, also an additional 2 days in 2009. In June / July/ August 2010.

Where did you volunteer?

At the Museum of the Manchester Regiment.

What inspired you to become a volunteer?

My interest in history mainly but also an idea of a career in this area of work. Furthermore to do something more constructive with my free time.

What did you do as a museum volunteer?

Different activities, at one point I did some research using computer software and created information pages and labels (one on a First World War medal trio). I also cleaned and preserved museum artefacts such as canes and medals. In addition I shadowed some of the museum workers and learned about the general duties and also more about the museum as a whole. At one point I also went to the archives to do some research relating to what I was doing at the museum. While at the museum I also got the chance to go to the unveiling of a Tameside blue plaque at Hyde town hall, this was a unique occasion and was very interesting. In addition I also created labels for uniforms and carefully sewed them onto them. Furthermore I created some padded coat hangers for uniforms (these keep the uniforms properly supported and in good condition). At a later date I also taught numerous people how to make the coat hangers and monitored their progress. I also got chance to see the difference the coat hangers made on a trip to stores.

What training and support did you get as a museum volunteer?

I got briefed before carrying out the activities; I also got shown how to do the tasks before attempting them myself. If I was stuck or confused at any point the staff were there to help at any time.

What skills and experiences did you gain as a volunteer?

I gained many skills and experiences, firstly how to take care and preserve artefacts and how to clean them. I also learned to use computer software better and to create labels. Also I learned to follow instructions better and more precisely. While at the museum I also learned how to teach and work with people better, it was also good because I learned how to use my initiative a little better.

What would you say to others thinking of becoming a museum volunteer?

Try it; you will gain more skills and knowledge in a very interesting field of work where the staff are very happy to help. There is definitely something to interest you in this type of career/ voluntary work.

What was the best thing about being a museum volunteer?

There were many things though perhaps mainly working in an environment so full of history and being able to interact with it. But also the staff that were only too happy to help and talk to.

What was the worst thing about being a museum volunteer?

Nothing to list.