Volunteer Role Description: History of Learning Disabilities Researcher

Location: Portsmouth and surrounding areas
Time Commitment: 2 hours a week
Reporting To: Project Coordinator, Groundwork

Role Overview:
Would you like to help uncover and share the untold stories of people with learning disabilities in Portsmouth? Groundwork, is a unique project to record and preserve the oral histories of 50 people with learning disabilities in the city. These important stories will be archived locally and nationally and shared on an accessible online platform. The project aims to give people with learning disabilities a voice, making their experiences visible and ensuring their contributions to history are recognised.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers based in and around Portsmouth to support us in uncovering the local history of people with learning disabilities. You’ll be involved in exploring local archives and piecing together narratives that have long been overlooked. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a project that will have a lasting impact on how local history is documented and shared.

  • Research and Archive Exploration: Assist in researching the local history of people with learning disabilities by exploring archives, documents, and other historical sources. Volunteers may also be asked to follow up on specific references made in the oral history recordings, such as researching photos, events, or additional information mentioned by interviewees.

  • Sharing Findings: Occasionally, you may be asked to share your research findings with project participants, offering them the opportunity to see the materials, photos, or information you've uncovered, as well as with project coordinators to inform the ongoing development of the project

Skills and Qualities We Are Looking For:

  • Interest in Heritage Research: Enthusiastic about learning, uncovering, and preserving local history, with a particular interest in the history of people with learning disabilities.

  • Age Requirement: Minimum age of 18.

  • Sensitivity and Respect: Ability to approach all aspects of the project with empathy, sensitivity, and respect for the people involved.

What You Will Gain:

  • Hands-on experience in heritage research and community engagement.

  • The opportunity to be involved in a project that has a meaningful impact on the visibility of people with learning disabilities in local and national history.

  • A chance to learn new skills in archive research.

  • The satisfaction of helping to share and preserve the untold stories of people with learning disabilities, ensuring their history is heard and appreciated.

  • Training and support throughout the project to help you feel confident and capable in your volunteer role.

How to Apply:
If you’re passionate about history and want to help make a lasting difference in how the stories of people with learning disabilities are told, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV and/or a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience (if any) to nathalie@thisnewground.com