Attingham Park fondly captures the heart of many Shrewsbury residents, standing at the forefront of the National Trust's portfolio of historical properties in Shropshire. However, the doors of the elegant 18th-century estate would remain firmly closed, were it not for the team of 600 volunteers who make it their home.
Whether you are someone who is looking to make new friends or perhaps try something totally new in a change of direction, the message which Attingham Park is keen to convey in 2012, is that there is definitely an opportunity for you to make your mark and join the team.
There are 25 different and varied roles at Attingham, all of which are delivered by the 600-strong team of dedicated volunteers who last year, gave over 50,000 hours of service assisting more than 290,000 visitors to the park alone. The volunteers work in harmony with the National Trust's own staff team, including Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager Kellie Scott.
Back in 2005 the property hosted 150 volunteers, a number which seems rather low in comparison to today's figure. The team has grown significantly as a result of the continued expansion and investment which the National Trust has made at Attingham, with successful initiatives such as Lady Berwick's tearoom in the main house.
Some people may think volunteering at a Trust property is an activity reserved only for the retired or older generation but this is certainly not the case at all. The youngest volunteer at Attingham is only 14 years of age – with a 94 year old holding up the other end of the scale. There are also 6 volunteers who are proud to have served a total of 40 years individually at the house.
Speaking of the benefits of volunteering as an activity, Kellie Scott said "We have a fantastic team of volunteers at Attingham, a total of 600 personalities and it's rewarding for me to see their continued motivation and passion. People may think they need a historical background to volunteer but all you need is the ability to engage with visitors in a positive manner". She added "Some volunteers are members of the National Trust who want to give something back to the organisation, whilst we have also seen an increase in younger volunteers and those who are changing direction for example, following redundancy".
Further benefits to volunteering at Attingham include regular social events for volunteers, on-going training and of course, the opportunity to actively help conserve one of Shrewsbury's best rural landmarks for future residents.
Geoff, a Visitor Welcome volunteer says "Following retirement, I missed the buzz of meeting new people. Every day is different and you are always able to broaden and enhance what is on offer to explore and enjoy. Attingham is the place for me!"
Whilst certain roles at the property continue to prove popular with would-be volunteers – including the walled garden, which currently has a waiting list – Kellie is currently looking for new volunteers to help with welcoming visitors and covering roles during weekends particularly. An exciting new initiative for 2012 is a new themed shop in the mansion and there is demand for people who have a retail background to offer their expertise – and benefit from the experience.
Anyone who is interested in volunteering at Attingham or would like to find out more information, is encouraged to contact Kellie direct on 01743 708124.
Kellie Scott
Volunteering & Community Engagement Manager
Attingham Park
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY4 4TP
01743 708124 – 07768 293 462
http://beta.nationaltrust.org.uk/attingham-park/
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