Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse

We’re looking to recruit a small team of remote / hybrid volunteers to support new and exciting research into the later period of the site’s history at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse, as part of it’s 250^th anniversary in 2027.

As a former workhouse, this site was once place of last resort for some of the poorest and most vulnerable people in Norfolk. From 1940s-1970s, it operated as Beech House care home for the elderly, proving much-needed social care for elderly residents and emergency accommodation for ‘evicted’ families.

Researchers will be a pivotal part of the project, unearthing new information and contributing to a new exhibition and series of events in 2027. 

You will do this role remotely, with optional visits and training at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse.

This role is very flexible; but we hope volunteers will be willing to give 2+ hours per week; initial period April – December 2026.

What's involved?

Details of role:

• Reading and summarising (transcribing) archival material including minute books and letters, oral histories and newspaper articles 
• Highlighting key topics and information found, feeding directly into new exhibitions and events
• Attending meetings (remotely or in person) to discuss findings with other volunteers and curatorial staff

If desired:

• Moving on to carry out family-history style research into workhouse residents and staff
• Oral history training and potential opportunity to conduct new oral history interviews

Skills required:

• Attention to detail and ability to follow written instructions
• Accurate typing skills
• Interest in social history and archival research

Why get involved?

Key benefits: Volunteer at home in own time. Attend regular meetings on site (or remotely) and meet other volunteers. Contribute to new research and learn about using archival records.

This role may be particularly beneficial to history or museum studies students who will get chance to learn about museum research and exhibition making.

Training provided:

• Instructions on how to carry out transcribing task
• Introduction to history of the museum and workhouse
• Option to attend oral history training and instruction of carrying out family history-style research

How to get involved?

• Accept this challenge below
• Sign up or Log in
• You will need to complete an application form and provide references.

This role does not normally require a DBS check. If volunteers begin to lead groups or work with school or community groups more a DBS check may be required. This will be assessed as the role develops.