Dane Boat Crew Volunteer
Re‑Form Heritage
Gold Volunteer Quality Standard Award Holder (VAST)
Re‑Form Heritage has achieved the GOLD Volunteer Quality Standard Award through VAST, recognising our commitment to providing high‑quality volunteer experiences.
We are looking for volunteers to support the upkeep, maintenance, and crewing of Dane, and to act as ambassadors for Re‑Form Heritage while helping visitors enjoy their time on the water.
Purpose of the Role
Support the upkeep, maintenance, and crewing of Dane
Help provide a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable experience for visitors
Represent Re‑Form Heritage in a positive and professional way
Main Tasks
Cleaning & Upkeep
Cleaning brasses
Blacking the stove
Deck swabbing
General cleaning and touch‑up painting
Maintenance Support
Checking water, fuel, and oil levels
Supporting basic engine and electrical checks (supervised)
Checking bilge and pump systems
On‑Board Safety Checks
Completing equipment checklists, including:
Lifejackets and buoyancy aids
Anchor and mooring equipment
Fire extinguishers and fire blanket
Navigation lights and emergency torch
Crewing Duties
You’ll learn and assist with:
Basic helmsmanship
Fendering and mooring
Knot tying
Lock, bridge, and tunnel procedures
Passenger management
Supporting Volunteer Guides
Understanding basic canal navigation rules
Caring for the environment and respecting other waterway users
Engaging with Visitors
Welcoming visitors in a professional and friendly manner
Chatting with passengers about their interests where appropriate
Communicating clearly and confidently with groups
Collecting visitor feedback, both formal and informal
Who We’re Looking For
No boating experience required — full training provided
Able to work as part of a team
Willing to learn new skills
Able to follow instructions and manage multiple tasks
Committed to good customer service
Interested in learning about the history of Middleport Pottery
Training Provided
All training is delivered in‑house and includes:
Induction and introductions to staff and fellow volunteers
Canal navigation theory (including Canal & River Trust guidelines)
Hands‑on practical boating skills training
Role shadowing with experienced Dane Crew Volunteers
Heritage training relating to Middleport Pottery
Health & safety and safeguarding training
Ongoing training will be provided as required.
Location & Hours
Locations: Middleport Pottery, Trent & Mersey Canal, and other associated sites
Opening times: Heritage areas are open 10:00am – 4:00pm, seven days a week
Volunteering hours: Flexible, depending on need and availability
If you enjoy hands‑on activity, learning new skills, working as part of a team, and helping visitors experience Staffordshire’s waterways and heritage, ** volunteering as a Dane Boat Crew Volunteer is a rewarding way to get involved**.