John Wesley's New Room is a heritage site and museum in the centre of Bristol - the oldest Methodist building in the world. The museum explores 18th century Bristol, with stories of social justice, abolition of slavery, health and wellbeing, education, the global spread of Methodism and the relevance of John Wesley's work to today's social and political climate. The chapel is a peaceful space offering an oasis of calm in central Broadmead with beautifully preserved 18th century features such as the lantern window. The visitors centre includes a Fairtrade cafe, gift shop, library, and events space - providing a fully accessible welcome to visitors from across the world.
Front of house welcome volunteers are key to the New Room visitor experience. The role mainly involves being inside the chapel, visitor centre or museum entrance, greeting visitors and providing them with the information they need so that they can enjoy their visit.
You may be asked to:
- Provide a friendly greeting to all visitors on arrival
- Listen to visitors’ needs and help them orientate the site accordingly
- Explain to visitors the New Room’s story, significance and history
- Inform visitors about current exhibitions, events and facilities
- Invigilate museum spaces and lead guided tours
- Sell museum and events tickets, operating the till and card machine
- Become familiar with the local area and answer visitor enquiries about other places to visit, transport, support services, etc.
- Support in the delivery of events and activities
Welcome volunteer shifts are 10.30am-1pm or 1pm-4pm, Monday-Saturday. Reasonable travel expenses are reimbursed, and full training is given to volunteers as well as socials, an annual volunteer outing and regular support from staff team.