Since 1st January 1953 the Clifton Suspension Bridge has been managed and maintained by the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust (CSBT), a not-for-profit charity. The Trust does not receive any local or national government funding but must raise monies to preserve the bridge in perpetuity to the highest possible standards. An Act of Parliament ensures that toll money collected from bridge crossings is used specifically to achieve this aim.
We have over half a million visitors to the bridge and over £3M vehicles crossing the bridge each year. To provide tourists and local from all over the world chance to learn about the history of the bridge a Visitor Centre was opened in 2015.
The Centre is run by a team of dedicated volunteers who run the Front of House desk, small shop, and guide tours. We are currently looking for volunteers to welcome visitors, explain what's in the Visitor Centre and all about the bridge as well as volunteers to run the till in our shop, putting through purchases. We're also always looking for more guides, so please get in touch no matter what your interests are.
Purpose of Role:
- To deliver a friendly welcome to all visitors, answering questions and providing information where necessary.
- Provide welcoming customer service to visitors and process transactions through the till.
Anticipated Time Contribution:
Flexible - Volunteers are welcome to come in for shifts as and when they would like to. Ideally, we would love it if volunteers wanted to work a regular shift, such as once a week, or a few times a month, but it's entirely at their discretion.
Main Activities or Duties:
- Welcome visitors to the Visitor Centre.
- Provide visitors with an overview of the exhibitions when they arrive, giving any relevant information.
- Process sales and transactions from the shop using the cash register & card machine.
- Ensure stock is replenished and advise a supervisor if stock is low.
- Ask Visitors for feedback if required.
- Pass comments and feedback to the Front of House Manager.
- Provide visitors with information about products on sale.
- Whenever possible assist visitors with information about the city if requested.
- Provide information about and promote upcoming activities and events to visitors.
- Ensure the gift shop and foyer area are clean and tidy.
What We Are Looking For:
- Good communication skills
- Enthusiasm
- Polite and friendly manner with visitors
- Reliable
- Punctual
Training:
All new volunteers are invited to shadow an existing volunteer or member of staff to gain an overview of the role and how the organisation works
A general induction will be given by the Front of House Manager. The induction will include an introduction to the gallery displays, museum policy and procedures, general responsibilities, and terms and conditions as outlined in the induction checklist.
Full till training will be given.
We will also provide training for tour guiding if desired.
Benefits:
- Meeting new people – both visitors and fellow volunteers.
- Learn new skills.
- Engaging with the local community as well as tourists.
- Mileage allowance within agreed guidelines paid.
- Opportunity to work as part of the team.
- Team events and trips.
Additional Information:
All volunteers are required to complete a DBS check.