Join Our Volunteer Team

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at West Bay Discovery Centre. Our award-winning Centre simply wouldn’t run without the time, energy, and enthusiasm of our amazing team.

Whether you’re looking to meet new people, learn new skills, or simply give something back to the community, volunteering with us is a wonderful way to get involved.

With over 50 friendly volunteers, we’ve built a thriving, supportive community that loves sharing stories, welcoming visitors, and helping everyone discover the magic of West Bay.

Most of our volunteers work as Stewards, welcoming visitors, sharing local knowledge, and looking after our small shop area. But we also have a range of roles to suit different interests and skill sets — whether you enjoy meeting people, helping behind the scenes, or supporting events and exhibitions.

No experience is needed; full training is provided. Steward shifts are just 2.5 hours long (11 am–1:30 pm or 1:30 pm–4 pm), and you can choose the frequency, making it easy to fit around your schedule.

View our volunteer video or read more about our volunteer roles below.

Volunteer Roles

👋 Steward

Our Stewards are the friendly faces of the Discovery Centre — welcoming visitors, sharing local information, and helping in our small shop. No experience needed, just enthusiasm and a smile!

📜 Researcher

Help us tell West Bay’s story! Our researchers dig into local history, wildlife, and coastal heritage to uncover fascinating facts and stories for exhibitions, displays, and online features.

🎉 Events & Activities

Love working with people? Help us run events and activities for all ages — from children’s workshops and school visits to guided walks and talks.

💬 How to Apply

Getting started is easy — just get in touch!

• Call or email us for a friendly chat about how you’d like to get involved.
• Or fill in our Volunteer Application Form to get a head start.

📧 Email: manager@westbaydiscovery.org.uk
📞 Phone: 01308 427288

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👑 King’s Award for Voluntary Service

We are incredibly proud to have received The King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honour given to local volunteer groups in the UK — equivalent to an MBE. This prestigious award, announced on 14th November 2024, recognises organisations that go above and beyond in their community work.
West Bay Discovery Centre was one of only two organisations in Dorset in 2024 to receive this honour — a true testament to the dedication of our volunteers.

💛 Friends of West Bay Discovery Centre

From 1st October 2024, all volunteers automatically become members of The Friends of West Bay Discovery Centre Charity (Charity No. 1209623).
This charity raises funds to support exhibitions, free activities, historical research, and new displays — helping us share the stories and heritage of West Bay with even more visitors.

See what we do by following us on The Friends of West Bay Discovery Centre Facebook page.