Volunteering

Machspace needs support from volunteers, as there are no salaried employees. There are various ways to connect with us and help out, and every effort is very much appreciated!

Come to a volunteer meeting

We have quarterly volunteer meetings, which we schedule on the calendar. Any member is welcome to attend, and isn’t obliged to take on any tasks. They’re on-topic, but relaxed and casual. You can come along and see what we’re up to, have a cup of tea, and take on or offer a small task if you want to. There’s no need to RSVP – just turn up.

Join the volunteer mailing list

Volunteer mailing lists send out reminders about volunteer meetings, the agenda and minutes, and any specific tasks we need help with. They go out once every 1-3 months. If you would like to be added to the volunteer mailing list, please email us to ask: hello@machspace.org

Join the volunteer WhatsApp group

Please email us to ask for an invite link: hello@machspace.org

Tasks we often need help with

  • Open days. We hold two open days per month, which usually last 2 hours, have two vounteers present, and have a craft theme. If you have a craft you’d like to share, or you’d like to support someone else to share their craft, this is a great job for people who like meeting people.
  • Equipment training. We have some equipment that members need to be trained to use. Also, some members like to be shown how to use something they’ve never used before, even if it doesn’t require training. If you like to teach and you have a favourite item of equipment at Machspace, this is for you.
  • Space management. We have various practical tasks you could help with. You could choose from monitoring and replenishing materials, seeking out and organising volunteers for open days, DIY, testing or repairing equipment, and more. This one may require more time, energy and commitment.
  • Public relations.
    • Online: Blogging, sending out mailing lists, posting on social media, and posting in local community groups online.
    • Not online: Making and distributing posters promoting Machspace and its events, hosting stalls at local community events, hosting a market stall on market day, and so on.
  • Organisation management. Admin, coordinating other volunteers, and leading funding applications. This one is more behind-the-scenes and can be done from home.
  • Directorship. Directors attend director meetings to make proposals and vote to steer the direction of Machspace. Directors are also able to induct new members and run volunteer meetings and general meetings. More directors for Machspace means more resilience and motivation for the organisation. Despite being a big commitment, it’s fairly flexible in terms of how much time and energy you want to contribute.

Interested?

Great! Connect with us. You can: