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Volunteering at Goddards

Woman with tools and wheelbarrow gardening in among a flower border with a large house behind
The team work hard to keep the garden at its blooming best | © National Trust Images / James Beck

Volunteers are crucial to keeping the garden beautiful and sharing the past stories of the place and people who once made a home at Goddards.

How to apply

Head to the National Trust volunteering page to search for an opportunity, often by location is the best way to see what roles are currently live. Look out for more details including days of the week and anything more specific to the role on offer. Apply online or complete a speculative application if there isn't a a role to suit just now. Roles are updated and added regularly so it's worth revisiting from time to time.

 

Why join us?

There are lots of reasons to join us; making the move to volunteer could be the best decision you ever make. 

  • Become part of a friendly and dedicated team 
  • Meet people from all walks of life and forge new friendships 
  • Utilise your existing skills and learn new ones 
  • Strengthen your CV and help to develop your career 
  • Enjoy the great outdoors 
  • Learn about the history of this special place.

 

Where do volunteers get involved?

Garden Experience Volunteers

Working as more traditional room guide volunteers might elsewhere, the team work outside to help visitors have an enjoyable experience during their visit. From customer service, to sharing the stories of the Terry family who owned and built the house and garden, plus the occasional talk or tour. For some visitors a pleasant smile is the only requirement, and for others this opportunity to find out more helps to make their day and place Goddards in York's chocolate heritage. 

 

Gardeners

The beauty of the five acres is one of the most common comments about Goddards, alongside the variety that the garden offers. All of this is made possible by the dedicated garden team who work week in, week out, and in all weather. From regular tasks to new develpments and working with wildlife in mind. The gardens wouldn't be what they are without the garden volunteers who earn their biscuit and brew on their day volunteering for the charity. 

 

Secondhand Book Room Volunteers

Fundraising is crucial for ongoing conservation of the beautiful places in York and secondhand books have become an essential way to drive this. It's recycling at its best - supporters can donate their pre-loved books - our volunteers sort and stack and when someone donates after finding a new page turner, the donation is reinvested back into caring for Goddards. The team keep the shelves fresh and topped up from the regualr supply of donations. 

 

 

Thank you

Thank you to all our volunteers who give their time to support the National Trust in many different roles. 

House Experience Volunteers at work in the Ambassador Room at Croft Castle, Herefordshire

Search our volunteer roles

Whether you're looking to help in the great outdoors, work with the public or get up close and personal with the houses, take a look at what's happening near you.

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