Barnsley Museums has released a new report on volunteering, showing its value and effects across the borough.

Volunteering is a key part of the Barnsley Museums approach with lots of opportunities for people to improve their wellbeing and connect with their community. It also helps people to connect with places that matter to them and to preserve and share their heritage.

The work of volunteers protects and enhances some of the boroughs' most essential natural assets, making them attractive and enjoyable places to visit and discover. This is only possible through the volunteers' hard work and commitment.

The museum's volunteers have diverse backgrounds and the Museums have helped over 90 SEND young people to learn new skills and work together on different projects.

Despite the decline in volunteering participation, there have been over 63,000 hours of volunteer time at the five Barnsley Museums sites since 2018, worth £848,421.

Barnsley Museums offers flexible experiences and this report gives inspiration on future volunteering opportunities.

Cllr Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “"Volunteering in Barnsley is a way to connect with the rich and diverse heritage of our borough from its industrial past, spectacular landscapes, and cultural present. By volunteering, you can help to protect these special places that make Barnsley unique and vibrant. It’s also a great way to learn new things, meet new people, and make a positive difference in our community. It’s great to see from this report the positive impacts volunteering is having right across Barnsley, making it a better place to live, work and visit.”

To see the document, go to www.barnsley-museums.com