Role Title: VOLUNTEER FUNDRAISER Department: Swanage Railway Trust Departmental Overview: The Swanage Railway Trust and its trading arm, the Swanage Railway Company Ltd has an inspirational history during which it has overcome many challenges and achieved great successes through tenacity and perseverance. It currently operates with over 60 different volunteer roles all contributing to achieving its vision. Reports to: Chair: Swanage Railway Trust’s Fundraising Group Location: The role can be home based with access to SR office facilities available if required. Purpose of the role: This role will help the Swanage Railway achieve its vision by raising capital funds, in line with its strategy, to fund major projects on the Railway in order to sustain its future. What you’ll be doing: These are the key activities that you’ll be undertaking: Research and analysis of fundraising needs Development of a clear appropriate fundraising strategy and targets Development and delivery of fundraising activities to achieve the strategy Effective communication with donors through a variety of media. Recruiting, organising and inspiring volunteers for fundraising activities. Liaison with Trustees, Directors and Managers Supporting and facilitating volunteers in fundraising activities Reporting to Swanage Railway’s Fundraising Group Supporting the organisation’s vision and values and complying with the Swanage Railway Volunteer Commitment What you’ll need for the role: Ideally you’ll be educated to degree level and/or hold a Institute of Fundraising Certificate / Diploma in Fundraising Minimum 3 years’ experience in a major fundraising or marketing environment in a similar sized or larger organisation Experience of working with and managing volunteers Strong interpersonal skills – able to build relationships, inspire and influence colleagues and donors. Excellent communication skills: written and verbal Management (and leadership) skills including the ability to work autonomously or as part of a team. Budget management Pragmatism Knowledge or understanding of heritage sector Vrp Volunteer Fundraiser January 2018 Page 1 of 3 Own transport/willingness to travel. Able to work flexibly to meet the demands of role Sense of urgency Willingness to support the Vision of the organisation and abide by the Swanage Railway Volunteer Commitment What you’ll get from the role: Play a key role in raising funds for a key heritage organisation in Dorset. Putting your fundraising skills to good use for the community. A personal sense of satisfaction. Meet a new network of people. Discounted Refreshments** Free tea/coffee/water** Discounts in SR Shop* Discounted Rail Travel* o o ** When in attendance at Swanage Railway. *Subject to Membership of Swanage Railway Trust The Training we’ll provide: Induction Training. Time commitment: Other requirements: Our vision Our Volunteer Commitment The role is voluntary and is likely to require a substantial input of time flexibly, including being contactable on an ad hoc basis beyond normal office hours and potentially travelling. There will also be a need to attend the Trust’s Council of Management Meetings, on occasions, (usually the afternoon of the third Saturday each month) and to attend a monthly evening meeting of the Trust’s Fundraising Group. The role may require travelling to meet potential donors; travel expenses will be - reimbursed. To be a vibrant volunteer led heritage railway serving the community. Volunteers form an absolutely vital part of everything the Swanage Railway does. There are over 80 different roles that our volunteers fulfil; from driving a locomotive to serving refreshments, from selling goods in our shops to helping maintain our track, from maintaining our signalling equipment to timetabling, from managing our finances to keeping our rolling stock maintained, volunteers are at the heart. Our vision is to be the UK’s leading heritage railway: we have an inspirational history during which we have overcome many challenges and achieved great successes through tenacity and perseverance. That spirit lives on today. We celebrate our Volunteers’ commitment and dedication which form such a vital part of what we do now and will do in the future. We want all our volunteers to gain fulfilment and enjoyment from their role whilst helping us to achieve our vision, and so we have our Volunteer Commitment that sets out the mutual basis of the relationship between Swanage Railway and our volunteers: The Swanage Railway will … Welcome you as a volunteer and provide appropriate opportunities to individuals who can help us achieve our purpose and vision. Provide the right equipment and training for the task. Give guidance and support in your volunteer role. Vrp Volunteer Fundraiser January 2018 Page 2 of 3 Treat you and all other volunteers equally and fairly. Ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, you have a safe working environment. Listen to any concerns if things are not going right. Recognise that you are a volunteer giving your time to us whilst having other commitments. In return we ask you to … Give us your time and commit to any training if needed for the role. Be professional and loyal to the organization. Be fair to those around you. Talk to your Manager/ Supervisor (volunteer or employee) first if things aren’t going right. Comply with our business standards, including the need to maintain confidentiality in relation to all SR information and to comply with SR’s security and safety procedures. Vrp Volunteer Fundraiser January 2018 Page 3 of 3
Job Description: Health & Safety Officer Post Title: Health & Safety Officer Reporting to: Chief Executive Officer / Head of Railway H&S Location: Swanage Railway (based at Swanage, with travel across the Railway as required) Contract: Part-time, 4 days per week (Wednesday–Saturday) Salary: £26,400 Purpose of the Role The Health & Safety Officer will support the delivery of a safe working environment across the Swanage Railway. Working alongside the Railway’s H&S Manager, the postholder will take responsibility for general health, safety, and compliance, ensuring that risks are managed effectively and all statutory requirements are met. A key focus will be on premises, events, weekend operations, and staff/volunteer safety. Key Responsibilities • Assist in the development, implementation and monitoring of Swanage Railway’s Health & Safety Management System. • Carry out regular inspections, audits, and risk assessments across stations, workshops, depots, retail/catering outlets, and offices. • Ensure compliance with legislation including fire safety, first aid, legionella, workplace safety, and event safety. • Support the planning and safe delivery of large-scale events (galas, Halloween, Christmas, etc.), providing weekend cover. • Respond promptly to incidents, accidents, and near misses, leading investigations and recommending corrective actions. • Maintain accurate health & safety records, reporting findings and trends to the CEO and Board. • Deliver induction and refresher H&S training to staff and volunteers. • Work collaboratively with managers, supervisors, and volunteer leaders to embed a culture of safety across the organisation. • Deputise for the Railway H&S Manager as required. Person Specification Essential: • Experience in a health & safety role, ideally in a complex, multi-site environment. • Fire safety, first aid, or legionella awareness training • Good knowledge of UK health & safety law, including fire safety and risk management. • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with staff, volunteers, and external bodies. • Confidence in undertaking inspections and writing clear reports. • Ability to work independently, including weekends. Desirable: • Experience in railways, heritage, tourism, events, or transport industries. • Knowledge of volunteer-led organisation. • NEBOSH General Certificate (or equivalent) in Occupational Health & Safety. Working Pattern • 4 days per week (Wednesday–Saturday), to ensure weekend/event cover. • Occasional flexibility required for major events and emergencies.
THE SWANAGE RAILWAY TRUST
33,000 per year (pro rata)
Swanage Railway, Dorset
Full-time
Swanage Railway Job Description: Learning & Community Engagement Manager Reports to: Chief Executive Officer Hours: 4 days per week (32 hours) Location: Swanage Railway, Dorset Salary: £33,000 pro rata Contract: Permanent Purpose of the Role The Learning & Community Engagement Manager will lead the development and delivery of Swanage Railway’s learning, interpretation, and community engagement programmes. The postholder will play a central role in realising the Railway’s mission to educate, inspire, and connect people with railway heritage, creating inclusive experiences for schools, families, volunteers, and the wider community. This role will strengthen the Railway’s position as an educational charity and community asset — supporting heritage learning, volunteering pathways, lifelong learning opportunities, and meaningful community partnerships. Key Responsibilities Learning and Interpretation • Develop and deliver a dynamic Learning Programme for schools, colleges, and youth groups linked to the National Curriculum and heritage learning outcomes. • Design and lead curriculum-linked workshops, tours, and interactive sessions (both on-site and outreach). • Work with volunteers and staff to enhance interpretation across stations, museums, and exhibitions. • Create learning resources, trails, and digital materials that make railway heritage engaging and accessible to all ages. • Evaluate the learning programme through feedback, participation data, and impact measures. Community Engagement • Build strong relationships with local community organisations, schools, and councils, ensuring the Railway is inclusive and reflective of the Purbeck community. • Develop outreach initiatives that reach underrepresented audiences and promote diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing. • Coordinate community projects, events, and partnerships that use the Railway as a platform for learning and connection. • Support volunteering pathways for young people and families, including the ‘Sygnets’ youth volunteering scheme. Partnerships and Collaboration • Collaborate with museums, heritage networks, and educational partners such as local schools, and universities. • Represent the Railway in local and regional education networks and forums. • Work with the Marketing and Communications team to promote learning and engagement activity. Project Development and Funding • Identify and apply for external funding (e.g., Heritage Fund, local authority, corporate sponsorship) to support educational and engagement initiatives. • Manage project budgets, timelines, and reporting requirements. • Support strategic initiatives linked to the Railway’s Vision, Mission, and Values and its charitable educational objectives. Volunteer Support and Training • Recruit, train, and support volunteers to deliver education and community activities. • Create learning opportunities for volunteers, including heritage skills, public engagement, and interpretation. • Foster a culture of inclusion, recognition, and empowerment in line with the Railway’s values. Person Specification Essential Desirable Proven experience developing and delivering learning programmes within a museum, heritage, or education setting Knowledge of the heritage railway or transport sector Excellent communication and presentation skills for diverse audiences Experience in digital learning and online engagement Strong understanding of curriculum design and informal learning methods Experience writing successful funding applications Experience in partnership working with schools and community organisations Qualification in teaching, museum education, or heritage management Ability to lead, motivate, and work collaboratively with volunteers Knowledge of Dorset and Purbeck’s local communities Excellent project management and organisational skills Understanding of safeguarding and inclusion in education settings Commitment to the values of Integrity, Safety, Respect, Education, and Empowerment Values and Behaviours The postholder is expected to demonstrate Swanage Railway’s five values in all areas of their work: • Integrity – act honestly, transparently, and in the best interests of the Railway. • Safety – place the safety and wellbeing of passengers, staff, and volunteers above all else. • Respect – treat everyone with dignity, professionalism, and fairness. • Education – promote learning, curiosity, and understanding of heritage. • Empowerment – enable others to flourish, contribute, and take pride in their work. Additional Information • The postholder may be required to work occasional evenings, weekends, or school holidays. • The role requires an enhanced DBS check and adherence to the Railway’s Safeguarding Policy. • Based at Swanage with travel along the line and local community sites.
Swanage Railway Job Description – Retail Officer Job Title: Retail Officer Reports To: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Salary: £30K Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week, worked over 5 days out of 7 (including weekends, bank holidays, and event days as required) Location: Swanage Railway – across retail outlets at Swanage, Corfe Castle, Norden, on-train, and pop-up/seasonal outlets Job Purpose The Retail Officer is responsible for the smooth and professional running of Swanage Railway’s retail operations. This includes the management of shops, kiosks, on-train retail, and seasonal outlets. The role ensures high standards of customer service, stock management, event merchandising, and volunteer support, helping to enhance the experience of all visitors to the Railway while contributing directly to Swanage Railway’s financial sustainability. The role is hands-on, with the Retail Officer regularly rotating between outlets and working alongside volunteers in the shops. Key Responsibilities • Retail Operations - Manage the day-to-day operation of all retail outlets across the Railway. - Deliver excellent customer service to all visitors, ensuring they feel welcomed and valued. - Ensure outlets are clean, welcoming, and well-presented, supporting a positive overall visitor experience. - Operate tills and digital sales systems to ensure smooth transaction processing. - Rotate across all outlets (Swanage, Corfe Castle, Norden, on-train, and seasonal kiosks), working hands-on to support and lead by example. • Stock & Merchandising - Oversee stock ordering, deliveries, pricing, and rotation. - Maintain accurate stock records and complete regular stocktakes. - Ensure merchandise is well-presented and displayed to maximise sales. - Work with the CEO to source and introduce new products and exclusive Swanage Railway merchandise. - Plan and deliver merchandise ranges for galas, special events, and seasonal outlets (e.g. Steam & Diesel Galas, Halloween, Christmas). • Compliance & Standards - Ensure all retail operations comply with Swanage Railway’s health & safety and safeguarding policies. - Follow procedures for use of sales systems and stock control. • Teamwork, Volunteers & Rostering - Recruit, train, and support retail volunteers, ensuring they feel valued and engaged. - Prepare and manage volunteer rosters to ensure all retail outlets are appropriately covered. - Provide day-to-day supervision and guidance to staff and volunteers in retail roles. - Act as the first point of contact for retail-related queries and issues. - Work collaboratively with colleagues to support wider Railway events and commercial activity. • Commercial Growth - Monitor sales trends and customer feedback to help inform product development. - Develop event-specific merchandise and ensure strong retail presence at galas and seasonal events. - Suggest seasonal promotions and cross-selling opportunities to increase income. - Promote membership, donations, and add-on sales to support Swanage Railway’s charitable objectives. Person Specification • Essential - Strong customer service and interpersonal skills, with a welcoming approach to all visitors. - Experience in retail, hospitality, or visitor services. - Familiarity with tills/EPOS or other sales systems. - Flexible and willing to work weekends, evenings, and during busy event periods. - Ability to work independently while also supporting volunteers and colleagues. - Organised and reliable, with good attention to detail. • Desirable - Experience supervising or leading a retail team. - Previous work in a visitor attraction, heritage railway, or charity. - Understanding of merchandising and sales analysis. - Interest in heritage, education, or local tourism. Values & Expectations All Swanage Railway staff and volunteers are expected to: - Place safety, integrity, and respect at the heart of all activities. - Deliver excellent customer experiences with professionalism and courtesy to all visitors. - Support, empower, and collaborate with volunteers and colleagues. - Promote Swanage Railway’s educational and heritage mission. - Always act in the best interests of Swanage Railway.
Swanage Railway Volunteer Officer Reports to: Learning & Community Engagement Manager Location: Based at Swanage, with regular travel across the Railway Hours: Full-time (37.5 hours per week, with occasional evening and weekend working) Contract: Permanent Salary: £27,000 per annum Purpose of the Role Volunteering is at the heart of Swanage Railway. With over 400 active volunteers, our Railway depends on the enthusiasm, skill, and commitment of people from all walks of life who help preserve and operate one of Dorset’s most cherished heritage attractions. The Volunteer Officer plays a key role in supporting, developing, and celebrating our volunteers. Working closely with the Learning & Community Engagement Manager, this role will coordinate volunteer recruitment, onboarding, communication, and recognition, ensuring that everyone who gives their time to the Railway feels welcomed, valued, and part of a vibrant community. Key Responsibilities Volunteer Recruitment and Onboarding Plan and deliver volunteer recruitment campaigns across multiple channels. Respond to volunteer enquiries and arrange informal interviews or taster sessions. Match volunteers to suitable roles and departments based on interests and skills. Coordinate induction sessions and issue welcome materials for new volunteers. Maintain accurate volunteer records in accordance with GDPR and internal policies. Volunteer Engagement and Support Act as the main point of contact for volunteer support and engagement. Build strong relationships with volunteers and staff across all departments. Promote inclusivity, wellbeing, and positive communication between volunteers and staff. Support departmental managers to identify volunteer needs and resolve any issues constructively. Produce regular volunteer communications such as newsletters, updates, and surveys. • Training and Development Assist in developing and coordinating volunteer training programmes. Work with managers to identify training needs and opportunities for progression. Support the delivery of safeguarding, induction, and customer service training. • Recognition and Celebration Lead volunteer recognition and reward initiatives, including thank-you events, awards, and milestone certificates. Capture and share volunteer stories to highlight their contribution and impact. • Community and Partnerships Support partnerships with schools, colleges, and community organisations to attract new volunteers. Assist in the development of the “Sygnets” youth volunteering programme. Help coordinate corporate or group volunteering days. Monitoring and Reporting Maintain and update volunteer management systems and data. Produce reports and statistics for management and Board meetings. Contribute to the delivery of the Volunteer Growth Strategy and the Railway’s wider cultural change programme. Person Specification Essential Experience working with volunteers or within a community, heritage, or non-profit organisation. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage people from diverse backgrounds. Strong organisational skills with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities. Proficient in Microsoft Office and comfortable using digital tools for communication and record-keeping. Commitment to inclusion, equality, safeguarding, and the values of Swanage Railway. Positive, proactive attitude with genuine enthusiasm for heritage and community engagement. Desirable Previous experience in volunteer management, HR, or community coordination. Understanding of safeguarding and data protection principles. Knowledge or interest in heritage railways or museums. Full UK driving licence and access to transport. Our Values We are guided by five core values that underpin everything we do: Integrity • Safety • Respect • Education • Empowerment We expect all colleagues and volunteers to embody these values in their work and interactions, helping to make Swanage Railway a safe, inclusive, and inspiring place for everyone.
JOIN OUR TEAM!
Swanage Railway
Volunteer Officer
Full-Time • Permanent • £27,000 per year
Based in Swanage (with travel across the Railway)
MAKE A DIFFERENCE AT THE HEART OF A HERITAGE RAILWAY
Over 400 volunteers help bring Swanage Railway to life.
We’re looking for a passionate, people-focused Volunteer Officer to support, develop, and
celebrate our incredible volunteer community.
This is your chance to help grow a vibrant, inclusive volunteer programme within one of Dorset’s
best-loved heritage attractions.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
Lead volunteer recruitment campaigns
Welcome and onboard new volunteers
Be the main point of contact for volunteer support
Coordinate training, inductions, and development opportunities
Champion volunteer wellbeing, recognition, and communication
Build community partnerships and support youth volunteering
Maintain volunteer data and produce reports
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
✔ Experience working with volunteers or in a community/heritage/non-profit role
✔ Excellent communication and people skills
✔ Strong organisation and attention to detail
✔ Confident with Microsoft Office and digital tools
✔ Committed to inclusion, equality, and safeguarding
✔ A positive, proactive attitude and passion for heritage
Desirable: volunteer management experience, safeguarding knowledge, interest in heritage
railways, driving licence
OUR VALUES
Integrity • Safety • Respect • Education • Empowerment
Help us make Swanage Railway a safe, inclusive, inspiring place for everyone
READY TO HELP SHAPE OUR VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY?
To apply or learn more, visit our website or contact the Learning & Community Engagement
Manager.