We’re proud to announce that the Palace has been awarded the prestigious Investing in Volunteers quality mark.

The award demonstrates the value the Palace places on its volunteers and the care it takes to ensure they have a really positive and rewarding experience.

With 192 volunteers supporting everything from gardening and visitor welcome to education and events, the Palace could not achieve all that it does without their commitment.

Over several months the Palace was assessed against six national quality standards, covering recruitment, planning, support, inclusion, and development. It was found to excel in every area.

Siobhan Goodwin, Community Engagement Manager at the Palace, said:
“We are delighted to receive this award. It recognises our work over many years to make volunteering here a really good experience. We hope this encourages even more people to join us. We are also happy to share our good practice with any local groups who would like our advice or support.”

Volunteers at The Bishop’s Palace play a vital role in welcoming visitors, conserving the historic gardens, supporting community events and inspiring schoolchildren. They help the Palace to deliver its charitable mission as a place of enjoyment and reflection for all.

The Chair of UKVF, the awarding body, added:
“UKVF is delighted to announce The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens’ successful achievement of this award. They have demonstrated a real commitment to volunteering, and proven that their volunteer management policies and procedures meet nationally recognised standards.”

The Palace Trust, which manages the site, is committed to growing its volunteering programme further. Opportunities are varied and open to all, whether someone has a passion for heritage and horticulture or simply wants to give back to the community.

For more information about volunteering at The Bishop’s Palace email [email protected]