As a freelance magazine journalist, I have the flexibility to fit in other things into my schedule. So, as I am fascinated by American history, I started volunteering at the American Museum in Bath in 2013.

My journalistic skills come in handy; researching is clearly good for learning and I’ve also written a couple of pieces for the museum blog. To interview successfully, you have to be able to get on with people and that helps me in my role as a room guide.

We are there to tell people about the museum and its history at Claverton Manor, the period rooms and the artefacts, but I like to engage people in some conversation, too. You can always learn a lot from visitors.

I have also helped out at various events, including stewarding at the regular Music Series performances. Last year, the museum arranged for a number of Native American artists to come over and give a series of lectures and workshops.

Some of the other guides, who have practical skills such as knitting and sewing, help to make decorations for Christmas at Claverton and other events. There are some very talented people here and plenty of opportunities to get involved. You just have to
let them know what you’re good at.