The historic Norwich Cathedral is a cherished landmark in the city, attracting visitors from all over the world. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of volunteers plays a vital role in bringing the Cathedral to life, making it a warm and welcoming space for all who visit. From greeting visitors and providing tours, to working with school groups and helping with family activities, the volunteers are the heart and soul of the Cathedral. As the Cathedral celebrates Volunteers’ Week, it’s the perfect opportunity to express gratitude to these selfless individuals and encourage others to join the volunteer community. With over 500 volunteers already part of the team, the Cathedral is grateful for their tireless efforts and looks forward to welcoming new members to the family.
The Very Revd Dr Andrew Braddock, the Dean of Norwich, praises the volunteers for their incredible generosity and dedication. He highlights the significant impact they have on the Cathedral, from sharing their skills and time to supporting various aspects of the community. The Cathedral is particularly thankful for the volunteers who serve as welcomers, helping visitors navigate the historic building and providing them with essential information to enhance their experience. Clive Sexton, a 65-year-old retired accountant, has been a welcomer for three years and loves being part of the Cathedral community. He enjoys meeting people from diverse backgrounds and finds joy in making a difference in someone’s visit. Similarly, Parami Ratnayake, a 43-year-old volunteer, feels a sense of fulfillment in providing guests with a warm and informative experience. Both Clive and Parami embody the spirit of volunteering, demonstrating the rewards of giving back to the community.
In addition to the welcomers, the Cathedral’s schools and family learning team relies heavily on volunteers to inspire and engage thousands of young people who visit each year. Volunteers like Margaret Gray, a retired teacher, and Eloise Garrett, a 23-year-old student, bring their skills and passion to the team, helping to create unforgettable experiences for children. Margaret, who has been volunteering for several years, appreciates the opportunity to continue using her teaching skills, while Eloise enjoys working with children outside of the classroom. Both women find joy in witnessing the sense of awe and wonder that children experience when they first enter the beautiful Cathedral. The volunteers’ enthusiasm and dedication are contagious, making a significant impact on the lives of the young people they interact with.
The Cathedral’s volunteer community is diverse and inclusive, offering a range of opportunities for individuals to get involved. Whether it’s as a welcomer, a schools and family learning volunteer, or in another capacity, there’s a place for everyone. The Cathedral is currently seeking new volunteers to join the team, particularly in the areas of welcoming and schools and family learning. No prior experience is necessary for welcomers, who are asked to cover one shift of 2 or 2.5 hours per week. For schools and family learning volunteers, previous experience working with children and young people is preferred, although training is provided for all roles. The Cathedral’s volunteer administrator is available to answer questions and provide further information, making it easy for interested individuals to take the first step.
As the Cathedral looks to the future, it’s clear that the volunteers will continue to play a vital role in shaping the community. The Dean of Norwich, the Very Revd Dr Andrew Braddock, invites anyone interested in volunteering to come forward, emphasizing the Cathedral’s gratitude for their time and skills. By joining the volunteer community, individuals can develop new skills, build meaningful connections, and be part of something bigger than themselves. The sense of fulfillment that comes from giving back is truly rewarding, as Clive, Parami, Margaret, and Eloise can attest. As the Cathedral celebrates Volunteers’ Week, it’s a reminder that volunteering is a two-way street, with both the community and the individual benefiting from the experience.
To learn more about volunteering at Norwich Cathedral, interested individuals can visit the volunteer page on the Cathedral’s website or email the volunteer administrator. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant community, Norwich Cathedral is a unique and special place to volunteer. By joining the team, individuals can become part of a long tradition of hospitality and service, making a real difference in the lives of visitors and the wider community. As the Cathedral looks to the future, it’s clear that the volunteers will remain at the heart of all that it does, inspiring and enriching the lives of all who come into contact with this incredible building.
