OpenSpace Trust Volunteers

• Open Space Trust

• VO100914

The OpenSpace Trust is a charity (SC036920) and registered not-for-profit company (SC292077). It owns the former East Kirk of St Nicholas, including the under croft (known as St Mary’s Chapel) parts of which date back to at least the 11th century. The purpose is to convert the interior to create spaces which will enhance that part of the city centre and make a ‘must visit’ venue for residents and visitors alike. To date we have undertaken a major archaeological dig, carried out extensive external fabric work and will shortly be completing the restoration of St Mary’s Chapel, the latter including creation of disabled access.

The Trust is governed by a Board elected by members, which meets at least quarterly in Aberdeen and operates through a series of sub-committees, mostly using on-line facilities. All those involved are volunteers.

The next stage of our work will involve creating a 4-storey building within the shell of the former East Kirk. It will have a total area of more than 1600m2 with a focus on heritage of the building and of the city. In addition, there will be a cafe and a large, flexible meeting space with the possibility of some smaller meeting rooms. To achieve all this, we need to develop a very clear description of what it will be used for and to raise the necessary funding (estimated at £7+ million). The current OST board has a variety of skills and experience however, the Board is of the opinion that additional expertise in fundraising, feasibility studies, networking and project management would be advantageous.

There is no particular requirement for these skills to be in one person, we are looking for the skills no matter how many people. It is also possible that a greater level of involvement in the work of Trust would be possible. Do you have any of these skills to help achieve this and which you would be willing to volunteer, or perhaps you are person approaching retirement and looking for an opportunity to give back to society.

For more information please contact Arthur Winfield, Project Leader and Trustee at email: arthurjwinfield@yahoo.com or telephone: 01224 314286.

More information about the OpenSpace Trust is also available at: http://www.openspacetrust.org.uk/

Travel details

Most meetings are held on-line, usually using Zoom, in an evening. Any face-to-face meetings are in Aberdeen city-centre usually starting mid-morning.

• About
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• Notes

Support

Training details

Excellent support and relevant guidance is provided to all volunteers. There would be no formal process, but any people who volunteered would be fully briefed – which would probably need to be an on-going process. This would likely be on a one-to-one basis initially supplemented with written information as required.

Restrictions

Minimum age: 16

Frequency & commitment

The volunteering times are flexible. All help makes a real difference and is greatly appreciated.

Volunteers (aged 16-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
Find out more

This volunteering opportunity is also advertised across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

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