Local people wanted as Widnes Science Museum launches major volunteer drive

Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum in Widnes is calling on local people to join its growing volunteer team as part of its major Synergy project, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The museum is looking to recruit new volunteers from across the Northwest to help inform, educate and inspire visitors through science, chemistry and local history, while strengthening connections with the local community.

Volunteers only need to commit a couple of hours a week, and no previous experience is needed. Full training, ongoing support and coaching are provided.

There is a wide range of roles available, including:

Event and Activity Helpers supporting community events in the museum and across the local area

Science Buskers engaging visitors in the interactive galleries

Set up Scientists preparing workshops and activities for schools and families

Local History Gurus bringing stories of the area to life

Archive Activists helping preserve and share Catalyst’s nationally important collection

Café Helpers offering a warm welcome to visitors

Mend and Fix It volunteers helping care for the historic 1860s building

One current volunteer said:
“I have been volunteering at Catalyst for several months and it gives me so much satisfaction. I am always learning something new and it is great to feel part of a team.”

Catalyst currently has 24 registered volunteers and aims to grow this to 70 by the end of 2027. Museums rely heavily on the support of volunteers and are essential in the running of any museum with some museums reporting four volunteers to every one staff member.

Heather Royle, Volunteer Coordinator at Catalyst, said: “Our volunteers play a vital role in helping visitors have a memorable experience. There are so many different roles available, so there really is something for everyone. With all the exciting changes happening through the Synergy Project, this is a brilliant time to get involved.”

The Synergy Project will transform Catalyst’s Birth of an Industry gallery into an immersive, interactive space bringing the story of the chemical industry to life. The project will also see the museum’s nationally significant archive digitised and improvements made to the historic Observatory Gallery, offering enhanced views across Halton.

Anyone interested in volunteering at Catalyst can contact Heather Royle at heather.royle@catalyst.org.uk.