…here are some pictures of families volunteering…what they had to say about it…and some comments from staff working with family volunteers…

This is just a great idea, I never would have thought of doing it. Why doesn’t everywhere do this?

Families volunteering together….that’s what community is about.

Family Volunteer (Mum)

This is cool!

Family Volunteer (Child, 12)

We learnt a lot and had a laugh.

Family Volunteer (Dad)

They love this (existing volunteers), it gives them a chance to share their skills and knowledge with a younger generation. We all work together; the visitors think it’s great, they always ask if they can join in.

Gardener (Beningbrough Hall)

I had never been here before today. It always seemed like a ‘big house’, a bit scary to come in to. I was surprised at how friendly everyone was. The kids asked if we could come next week….!

Family Volunteer (Mum)

It helps children recognise that they are valuable, important and can contribute something. That goes for the parents too. We forget these things.

Family Volunteer (Mum)

Family volunteering is such a positive thing for properties to be doing. Seeing families working together and talking to visitors, helping them have a great day does literally bring a tear to your eye!

Property Manager (Osterley Park)

I really want my kids to grow up to look after things around them – this was a good way of doing and learning about that together.

Family Volunteer (Dad)

This is brilliant – it’s hard work but it’s really fun. Can we come back again? In hearing her child say this, the surprised mother stated - A comment like that is gold dust to me, it’s hard to make work enjoyable today has done just that!

Family Volunteers (Mum and Son, 9)

For us it’s is a way of offering really memorable experiences for families which should deepen relationships, wider understanding and support for the Trust, as well as providing fun outdoor challenges. It is one area of our Property Business Plan that is already being taken forward.

Property Manager (North Devon)

Thank you. This was wonderful, I’d never thought of coming here before. We had a great day, when can we help again!

Family Volunteer (Mum)

I cut down a tree and Adam the Ranger said ‘that is one of the best cuts I have seen from anyone who has volunteered here’ and then every thing was over and I HAD A GREAT TIME.

Family Volunteer (Child, 7)

We want to improve our experience for families, and by involving family volunteers to deliver that experience in various roles we hope to offer a much more relevant approach to families.

Visitor Services Manager (Upton House)

This is great, my mum would have a fit if she saw me now, I’m not usually allowed near sharp heavy things.

Family Volunteer (Child, 9)

Family volunteering provides multiple benefits for both organisations and communities; Offering opportunities for intergenerational working and the development of transferable skills. It fosters a sense of shared pride and achievement which often leads onto participants playing a more active part in their local property or community in the future.

Heritage Participation Consultant (Morden Park HLF Project)