Amgueddfa Cymru are one of many organisations who have achieved the Investing in Volunteers Award – here they tell us how they’ve used it to show volunteers the value they bring to their museums and communities.
Amgueddfa Cymru is home to the seven National Museums across Wales and the National Collections Centre. With over 5.2million objects and memories in our national collection, our museums are crammed full of fascinating objects and interesting projects to inspire and enjoy.
ADDING TO THE COLLECTIVE
The involvement of our volunteers and the support they provide for Amgueddfa Cymru is invaluable – they contribute so much through their collective experience and offer a fresh perspective on our work.
We work hard to ensure that every volunteer is appreciated, and that they feel valued for the knowledge they bring. By recognising that volunteering can be a vehicle to employment, we as an organisation are well placed to support the wide ranging and diverse local communities of Wales. Or aim is to change lives by partnering with grass roots organisations that support people to build confidence and develop practical skills through volunteering.
‘I work with volunteers who have no experience of work and build up their confidence and skills to the point where they have been successful in gaining employment.’ – Volunteer Supervisor
DEMONSTRATING IMPACT
Achieving the Investing in Volunteers Award has given us the opportunity to both prove and improve our positive and impactful was of working. The IiV quality areas were created with volunteer experience at the heart, and we are so proud to achieve this award for the third time.
‘To any organisation thinking about applying for this award, go for it! They support you every step of the way and we have found it very rewarding to take the time to reflect on and showcase the positive impact that our work has on people’s lives.’ – Volunteer Coordinator
‘The Investing in Volunteers Award is a testament to the hard work of the team, and a reflection of their commitment to support each individual volunteer, especially during the tribulations of the last two years. We now look forward to building on this success, and to provide even more opportunities for volunteering in the future.’ – Head of Engagement and Volunteering
DEVELOPING A FAMILY
Since the start of the global pandemic, we have found new and exciting ways for volunteers to support us, from transcribing historical documents from home to being ambassadors for our work online. Our aim over the next three years is to develop our e-volunteering opportunities further, giving people from every part of Wales, and beyond, the opportunity to take part, learn and support us.
‘Us volunteers are so cared for and respected. We always feel included, like a big family. It’s amazing to be part of such diverse and inclusive society. The whole place has an air of belonging.’ – Volunteer
To find out more about volunteering at Amgueddfa Cymru, visit their website: Get Involved with Amgueddfa Cymru | National Museum Wales or follow them on social media: Facebook & Twitter
MORE ON IIV
For more information on the Investing in Volunteers award, please visit https://investinginvolunteers.co.uk/