Underfall Yard was built in the 1880s as a purpose-built docks maintenance facility. The Hydraulic Power House was completed in 1887 and powered a network of locks, cranes, swing bridges and much more. The 1907 hydraulic pumps were decommissioned in 2010 and the building was opened to the public in 2016 as a Visitor Centre and cafe. Underfall Yard is not a museum. It is a working environment with maritime business, an operational slipway, the Docks Engineer and Harbour Master’s teams all contributing to the working nature of the site.
Purpose of Role
- Provide a friendly and welcoming presence at Underfall Yard Visitor Centre
- Actively encourage members of the public to visit and enjoy the centre
- Support visitors to use the interactive exhibits
- Share information with visitors about the yard and any upcoming events or opportunities
- Encourage visitors to share their own memories, stories and feelings about Underfall Yard
- Oversee the health and safety of visitors through familiarity with the risks posed by being a working boatyard and encouraging safe behaviour onsite
Anticipated Time Contribution
You can volunteer regularly or occasionally.
Regular Visitor Centre volunteers offer their time for the same session each week. During the summer (BST) the sessions are Morning (10am – 1.30pm) or Afternoon (1.30pm to 5pm). During the winter (GMT) the sessions are Morning (10am – 1pm) or Afternoon (1pm – 4pm). Please state which days and sessions you are available for when completing your registration form.
If you are not able to offer the same session each week, you may like to consider volunteering occasionally to fill gaps on the rota. Both forms of volunteering are greatly appreciated by the Underfall Yard Trust.
Main Activities or Duties
Actively encourage visitors’ to enjoy the centre by demonstrating how interactives work, answering questions and sharing information about Underfall Yard
Carry out actions to ensure the safety of visitors (i.e. closing gates and putting out barriers when the slip is being operated, ensure visitors stay behind safety barriers when machinery is in operation)
Keep up-to-date by reading briefings and information regarding the boat yard business, upcoming events and activities to share with visitors
Encourage visitors to sign up to our mailing list
Invite visitors to share their memories and stories about Underfall Yard
Keep a record of the number of people who visit and offer timely feedback to Underfall Yard Trust staff about any comments from visitors or H&S issues
What we are looking for
Enthusiasm for relevant subjects (Bristol, history, buildings, engineering, maritime industries, working with the public etc.)
Reliable and a good team member
Friendly and approachable manner suitable to a visitor facing role
Good record keeping skills
Training
An induction will be given to the yard, including an overview of procedures and health and safety.
Training on using the interactives will be given
Ongoing support from the Community Learning and Volunteering Manager
Benefits
The Trust understands the needs of students when volunteering. We always seek to help students build their c.v. by offering the chance to assist in other areas such as education, writing and community outreach.
Opportunity to expand knowledge of the history of the harbour and feel connected with Bristol.
Meet new people and develop confidence when meeting the public
Opportunity to work as part of the team
Team events and trips
Notes
Visitor Centre Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age or be accompanied by a guardian who is at least 18 years of age.