Take Shelter CIO runs and manages the only school air raid shelter open to the public in the south. It is based at Downs Junior School and its activities consist of providing opportunities for visitors to our schools programme and community open days to tour the shelter and take part in wartime themed activities. We have recently been awarded a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to deliver a community project to preserve and share the memories of the last generation of people who lived during the war. For further information please see: www.takeshelter.org.uk
What does the opportunity involve doing?
What will I be doing?
You will be researching and selecting wartime themed documents and similar from the Mass Observation Archive based at The Keep in Brighton. These documents will be used to help to add extra information to new displays, hands-on activities and a digital touchscreen to increase understanding of what it was like to live during the Second World War. An introduction to the Mass Observation archive and the Second World War will be provided.
What induction, training and support is offered?
What support and training will I receive?
All volunteers will receive an induction and including background to Take Shelter and the National Lottery Heritage Fund project including a tour of the air raid shelter. An introduction to the Mass Observation Archive (MOA) and how to use the search room will also be provided by the MOA team. Ongoing support for the activity will be provided by the Project Officer.
What skills or qualities are needed?
What skills, qualities and experience do I need?
No experience or qualifications are necessary as this is a good opportunity to gain new skills. However this role would suit people who:
• Have an interest in the Second World War
• Have an interest in research and working with archives
• Have good communication and listening skills
• Are proactive with a good eye for detail
• Enthusiastic and interested to learn about the project and life in wartime Brighton
• Reliable, friendly and polite
• Comfortable working as part of a team
• Are able to work with and without supervision
Date added
25th March 2025
Organisation
Location
The main research activities will take at the Mass Observation Archive at The Keep, Falmer.
The induction session will take place at Downs Junior School, Rugby Road, Brighton. BN1 6ED.
Some follow up work can be undertaken at home.
Deadline for applications
1 May 2025
Categories
Other groups
Activities
Other activities Volunteering as part of a team Volunteering with computers
Disabled access?
Yes
Expenses paid?
No
Childcare available?
No
Contact name
Fran Stovold
Email address
takeshelter@downsjun.brighton-hove.sch.uk
https://www.takeshelter.org.uk
