Thank you for your interest in volunteering with us. As a small but dedicated charity, we rely on the enthusiasm, passion and commitment of our volunteers to help develop our heritage offering and to preserve the lifeboat and share her extraordinary story with the public.

Whether you're interested in history, enjoy meeting new people, want to learn new skills or simply have time to give, there’s a role here for you.

Why Volunteer With Us?

• Be part of preserving our towns heritage for future generations along with our maritime history
• Gain new skills and experiences
• Meet like-minded people and contribute to your community
• Enjoy flexible volunteering around your availability

Volunteer Roles Available

• Tour Guide / Interpretive Host
  Lead guided tours of the lifeboat and share its history with visitors in an engaging and respectful way. You will typically volunteer for 2-3 sessions per month (approx. 6-9 hours) depending on opening times and your availability.

• Visitor Welcome & Front-of-House Volunteer
  Be the first point of contact for guests, offering a warm welcome and helping them get the most from their visit. Most volunteers cover 2-4 sessions per month (approx. 6-12 hours), with additional opportunities during special events.

• Historical Research Assistant
  Support the charity’s research into lifeboat history, the 1953 disaster, and personal stories from the time. Flexible commitment of approx. 4-8 hours per month, depending on research projects.

• Maintenance Volunteer
  Assist with general upkeep of the boat and displays, including light repair work and painting. Regular maintenance sessions take place 2-3 times a month, requiring approximately 6-10 hours monthly.

• Event Volunteer
  Help organise and run events, setting up, greeting visitors, and providing general support on the day. Events typically happen once a month in summer, requiring approx. 4-6 hours per event.

• Fundraising Volunteer
  Support our fundraising efforts through events, sponsorship, and online campaigns. Fundraising roles may require approximately 4-8 hours monthly depending on projects.

• Social Media / Communications Assistant
  Assist with posting content, updating the website, and producing promotional material. Approx. 4-6 hours per month, with flexibility depending on social media plans.

• Leaflet Distributor / Community Outreach Volunteer
  Distribute leaflets and posters to local shops, cafes, and community spaces to help raise awareness. Distributors may spend 3-6 hours per month covering routes in the local area.

We understand that everyone’s availability is different. The estimated hours listed above are only a guide. If you’re unable to commit to these suggested hours, we are still very happy to welcome you as a volunteer. Whether you can help regularly or occasionally, every contribution is valued and appreciated.

What We Offer

• Full induction and role-specific training
• A friendly and supportive volunteer team
• Volunteer socials and recognition events

Next Steps To apply, simply contact us using the form below choosing the role that you are interested in, or, pop down during our open hours and speak to one of the team. We’re happy to answer questions and help you find the right role.

Thank you for helping us keep the story of the Sir Samuel Kelly alive.