Background
The RCN Library and Archive Service holds two public exhibition and event series every year. Each is themed around a particular aspect of nursing or history: past exhibitions have included the history of mental health care, children's nursing, learning disability nursing, women’s health, the First World War and pandemics. See our current and past exhibitions.
Each exhibition runs for 6 months in London followed by 6 months in Edinburgh and is accompanied by an online exhibition and a series of themed events (virtual and in-person).
We're looking for exhibition volunteers!
Would you like to help shape a public exhibition? Or are you interested in gaining new skills in co-production, history, and public engagement?
The RCN Library and Museum is planning a new exhibition on the history of pain, to launch on 18 March 2027. We’re seeking volunteers to get involved in planning, writing and designing the display.
You might work in a relevant field, have lived experience of pain management, or simply have an interest in the history of nursing and health care. Throughout the 9-month project, we will invite you to participate in a range of activities, with full training and support.
Volunteer Role
All RCN members are welcome to get involved. You do not need any specific experience to take part as all training will be provided. You will need to attend an online project briefing at 5.30pm on Wednesday 1 July, or agree to watch the recording afterwards.
We can offer travel expenses for essential site visits and support with equipment (if needed).
Volunteers can participate in the following (depending on your availability):
- Be invited to training in object handling, co-production, research and text writing for exhibitions
- Carry out individual research into the history of pain – developments in pain management and pain nursing, patient experiences of pain and other themes to be decided by the group
- Participate in focus groups (virtual and in person) on exhibition design and interpretation and object selection
- Draft text for the exhibition, to be edited with the RCN Museum and Events team
- Support events and workshops, from planning ideas to delivery
Training
There will be three optional training sessions during the project to support you to participate fully and learn new skills.
- Research and co-production training - online (15th July): A practical session on the basics of conducting historical research and how to use co-production.
- Object handling training – in person (18th September): An introduction to the basics of handling and working with historical objects, using items in the RCN collections.
- Interpretation training – online (October date TBC): A practical workshop on interpreting objects and telling stories for museums and exhibitions.
The Museum team will also be on hand to help and guide you throughout the project.
How to get involved
To register your interest as a volunteer, please complete this Microsoft form by Friday 19 June.
