As part of Volunteers’ Week, Norwich Cathedral has paid tribute to the hundreds of individuals who generously give their time and talents to support its daily life. With roles ranging from greeting visitors to aiding in educational programs and maintaining historic artifacts, volunteers are recognized as a cornerstone of the Cathedral’s operations.
Approximately 500 people currently serve as volunteers at the Cathedral, according to the Dean of Norwich, the Very Reverend Dr Andrew Braddock, who praised their contributions and encouraged others to consider joining the community.
“Our wonderful volunteers do an amazing job and are incredibly generous in sharing their time and skills,” said Dr Braddock. “We are so grateful for all that they do. If you would like to become a Cathedral volunteer, we would love to hear from you.”
The Cathedral is currently seeking new volunteers, especially for positions as welcomers and as part of the schools and family learning team.
Welcomers play a vital role in offering a warm reception to visitors at the Hostry entrance. Among them is Clive Sexton, 65, a retired accountant from Norwich’s Golden Triangle, who has volunteered for three years.
“A friendly welcome and appropriate words can make a huge difference to someone’s visit,” Sexton said. “No two shifts are the same. I never know who I might meet, and I’ve had so many great conversations.”
Parami Ratnayake, 43, also serves as a welcomer, having joined the team in October 2024. She highlighted the personal and communal rewards of volunteering.
“The Cathedral is a place of beauty, reflection, and community,” she said. “It’s an opportunity to develop new skills, build meaningful connections and be part of something bigger. The sense of fulfilment that comes from giving back is truly rewarding.”
The schools and family learning team is another critical area of volunteer involvement. These volunteers help deliver engaging educational experiences to thousands of children who visit the Cathedral each year, as well as lead creative family activities during school holidays.
Margaret Gray, 65, from Taverham, joined the team after retiring from teaching. “It’s a great way to continue using my skills,” she said. “It’s lovely to witness that sense of awe and wonder children have when they come into this beautiful building for the first time.”
Eloise Garrett, 23, from Cromer, began volunteering while studying for her MA in Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies at the University of East Anglia. Initially joining on a placement, she chose to remain with the team afterward.
“I love working with children, especially seeing how excited and engaged they are with learning outside the classroom,” Garrett said. “The children, the team, the atmosphere, the activities—it’s all a really lovely way to give back and enrich your own life.”
Norwich Cathedral provides full training for all volunteer roles. Welcomers are asked to commit to one shift of two to two and a half hours per week. While no experience is necessary for this position, experience in education or working with young people is preferred for the schools and family learning team. Skills in drama, storytelling, and crafts are particularly valued.
