Volunteer’s Week: A Day in the Life of a Ships’ Volunteer
Volunteers’ Week: A Day in the Life of a Ships’ Volunteer
This Volunteers’ Week, we follow Ships’ Volunteer Jane to find out what she gets up to on a normal day at the Dockyard.
moRNING
I have been a volunteer for over two years, assigned to the Ships Team. I usually arrive at the Dockyard between 09.00-09.30. After parking on the helipad, I grab my packed lunch and head for the Ship’s Team workshop, where I clock on.
The regular task that I have been assigned is the cleaning of the gullies on the deck of HMS GANNET. I like to get it finished before the public enters at 10.00. So, I grab my broom and bucket, head over to the GANNET and fill up my bucket from the water tap alongside the ship. This task usually takes me around one hour, then it is time for tea!
Next, I look for Jamie or Dave to get my next job, but if I can’t find them, I will wander around the workshop, observing and chatting with the rest of the team. If I am lucky, I get a tutorial or better still I am invited to have a go.
aFTERNOON
Lunch is at 12.00 midday, when the whole team gets together and has a catch-up. Some people leave after lunch, but I will stay on if needed.
During my time with this team, I have learnt new skills including shotblasting, machine polishing, wood carving on the lathe, painting, pop riveting, welding, woodworking skills and mechanics.
BEING A DOCKYARD VOLUNTEER
I absolutely love volunteering; it gives me a purpose and the feeling of being a part of a team. You are definitely never too old to learn new skills, and no two weeks are the same. It is impossible to choose a favourite!
Occasionally, volunteers are asked to help out with events, which are great fun – as are the quiz nights, day trips, BBQs and Christmas meal. A wonderful camaraderie exists between the staff and volunteers.
About Jane
My first experience of the Dockyard was in October 1978, when I left school. I joined the admin team above the Light Plate Shop, on St Mary’s Island. After six months, I was offered a transfer over to the Central Standards Group, in the building (since demolished) in front of the Mast Pond. I stayed there until transferred out due to the impending closure.
My mum worked as a wages clerk in the Dockyard, and her dad worked there too!
I now live on St Mary’s Island.
I love the Dockyard so much that I held my dad’s 90th Birthday party here, in the Commissioner’s House. My brother brought his restored coach down from the Midlands, and all the guests toured around Medway, taking dad down memory lane. We then headed to the Dockyard for his party.
It was a very special and unique day.
