Press Release: University recognised for giving volunteers a great experience

volunteer Gerry Westall

The University of Reading Museums and Special Collections Service (UMASCS) has been recognised for the outstanding opportunities and support it offers its volunteers.

UMASCS has been awarded the Investing in Volunteers Standard from Volunteering England, marking it as an organisation committed to good practice and of volunteering excellence. The news coincides with the start of Volunteers’ Week, an annual campaign which celebrates the fantastic contribution that millions of volunteers make across the UK.

To achieve the Standard UMASCS’ volunteer programme was closely scrutinised. Volunteer England found that UMASCS ensured volunteers were well-treated, supported and encouraged to develop further skills and that they enjoyed the time they generously give to the University.

Gerry Westall, from Woodley, is UMASCS’ longest standing volunteer. He has given up his time for over twenty years and he continues to come in every week.

Read more on the University of Reading website.

Press Release: Join the Jubilee fun at Museum fete this June!

child enjoying last year's MERL feteFree craft workshops, morris dancing and pedalling your own smoothies! These are just some of the attractions families can enjoy at this year’s Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) Annual Village Fete on Saturday 9 June.

MERL, which is owned and managed by the University, has been hosting the popular event on their Redlands Road site for five years. This year the fete has a special Jubilee theme to coincide with the Queen’s 60th anniversary celebrations.

Read more on the University of Reading website.