What is your recruitment process?

You can apply to volunteer to a specific role via our website. Once your application is received it will be reviewed by the manager who will be in touch. Applicants are usually invited to a taster or open day, or to have a chat with the manager for that role. Successful applicants will receive an induction and training when they come onboard with us.

If a role you are interested in is not available, please fill out our Expression of Interest form to be notified when something of interest to you is recruiting.

If you would like assistance with the above, please email volunteering@rafmuseum.org or call 020 8205 2266 and ask to speak to a member of the Volunteering Team.

Who can volunteer and how do you select?

Everyone! Our decisions on who we involve and the role they do is based first and foremost on their interest, motivations and expectations and then their skills, experience and merits.

We are committed to applying our equal opportunities policy at all stages of a volunteer's involvement. We welcome applications from people of all interests, abilities, backgrounds and communities.

Why should I join you as a volunteer?

Volunteering with us gives you the opportunity to discover more about our Museums, get close to a unique and nationally important collection, make friends, see behind the scenes, and develop your skills. As a volunteer, you will also receive:

• Discount in our shops and cafes
• Annual volunteer recognition event
• Reciprocal site visits between London and Cosford
• Travel and expenses reimbursed in line with our policy
• Free entry to a wide selection of other museum and heritage sites and exhibitions nationwide.

I'm living with a disability, how can I volunteer?

All our roles require different abilities, and we will make reasonable adjustments to help you take part. Please let us know about any adjustments you may need. If you see a role you like, please apply and we can agree the best way forward. If you have specific concerns, please get in touch.

Our buildings are accessible for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs. Full details about accessibility at our Midlands site can be found here, and our London site can be found here.

I have a criminal record, can I volunteer?

It is possible to volunteer with us if you have a criminal conviction, as long as you to inform us of any unspent convictions when you apply for a role, and pending a risk assessment. We have a standard procedure for assessing suitability for a role based on the nature of the conviction and the nature of the role applied for.

I am receiving benefits, can I volunteer?

Yes, people claiming benefits can volunteer, though you must follow some rules. You must tell your benefits office that you are volunteering and give them details such as how many hours per week. You can find more information on the Citizens' Advice website and on GOV.UK.

How old do I need to be to volunteer?

At the moment we can only facilitate volunteers aged 18 or over. We hope to be able to offer volunteering opportunities to young people in the future.

If you are looking for a work experience placement, please visit here for more information.

Can I do my Duke of Edinburgh at RAF Museum?

We can facilitate people doing Duke of Edinburgh who are 18 or over and if their volunteering for DofE fits in with one of our volunteer roles.

Do I need to be an expert about the RAF?

For most roles, no! Whilst a knowledge and experience of the RAF is beneficial, it isn't crucial as you can learn about this as you go. 

A role description will state if specific knowledge or skills are needed for that role. 

Do I need experience in Museums or the role I'm interested in to be a volunteer?

Not at all. Some roles require you to have particular skills and knowledge. The role description for each volunteering opportunity will tell you what kind of experience is required. Most roles just need your time and enthusiasm.

All volunteers will have an induction and, if needed, you will also get specific training for your role. Your manager will be on hand to provide ongoing help and support during your time volunteering with us, and so will the Volunteering Team.

How much time do I need to give?

We have a variety of volunteering opportunities - some that you can do from home, ad hoc when you have time or weekly/fortnightly/monthly on various and set days. All our role descriptions will describe the type of commitment we are seeking. Our offer is wide ranging, so we are confident you will find something to help us with. All information about our available roles can be found on our website. If you can't find a role that matches your availability, you can fill out our Expression of Interest form to receive email notification for all new volunteering opportunities relevant to the location you want to volunteer.

I can't find a suitable role. Am I still able to help?

We recruit to advertised roles, as we want to ensure you have a great experience. Please keep an eye on our website or fill out our Expression of Interest form to receive email notifications for all our new volunteering opportunities.