Volunteering at Wycombe Museum

At Oak Lodge, we’re always looking for meaningful ways for our clients to get involved in the community. Another exciting opportunity recently has been volunteering at Wycombe Museum.

Our wonderful local museum has opened its doors to welcome our clients as part of their volunteer team, making a positive difference already.

A Warm Welcome from The Museum Team

From the very beginning, the staff at Wycombe Museum have been so kind and supportive. They have created a space where our clients feel comfortable and valued so they can learn, grow and truly be part of something. That sense of inclusion and belonging means so much.

What Our Clients Do at The Museum

Our clients help with a wide range of daily tasks around the museum. These are hands-on activities that keep the space welcoming and tidy for visitors.

They help keep the space tidy by cleaning tables, taking used dishes to the sink or dishwasher, putting rubbish in the bins, and sweeping the floor. They also clean the toys in the café area.

Museum galleries. Dust the tops of cabinets, tidying litter and sweeping up.

Keeping the garden tidy. Helping tidy up the Mud Kitchen in the garden area by picking up toy pots and pans and putting them back on the counter. Every task, big or small, plays an important part in keeping the museum running smoothly. And our clients take real pride and joy in doing these jobs well. 

Learning Through Real Experiences

Volunteering at the museum gives our clients a chance to learn new skills in a real setting.

Simple routines like cleaning tables, helping with dishes, or greeting visitors help build practical, everyday skills that are useful in all kinds of jobs. But it’s not just about the physical tasks, it is about confidence, independence, and teamwork too.

They learn how to follow instructions, work alongside others, manage their time, and adapt to new situations. For many, it’s a big step towards feeling more independent and capable in their daily lives.

And because the museum is such a friendly and welcoming place, there is always support available if anyone needs help or a little guidance. That makes a real difference.

Building Confidence and Pride 

One of the biggest benefits of volunteering is seeing how it helps people believe in themselves.

When our clients finish a day at the museum, they can look around and see what they have achieved.

Volunteering also helps build social confidence. Saying hello to visitors, chatting with the café team, or working together on a task helps strengthen communication and teamwork skills in relaxed, natural way.

Feeling Part of The Community

At its heart, volunteering is about connection. Our clients are not just doing tasks, they are getting to know people, make new friends, and feel part of something bigger. This kind of community connection is priceless. It breaks down barriers, encouraging understanding, and shows what inclusion looks like in everyday life.

Learning Life Skills

Volunteering at Wycombe Museum gives our clients a chance to practice important life skills that they are learning at Oak Lodge, in a safe and supportive environment, out in the ‘real world’.

Tasks like cleaning, organising, and communicating are things everyone needs in day-to-day life.

Positive Impact on Wellbeing

Volunteering is also wonderful for mental and emotional wellbeing. Having a regular place to go, a purpose for the day, and friendly faces to see can have a positive impact on how someone feels. It boosts mood and helps reduce feeling of isolation.

Spending time in a calm and creative space like the museum also brings its own sense of peace and pride. Having a regular routing helps our clients feel settled and confident, knowing where they’re going, what days they volunteer, and what to expect each time gives them comfort and structure that they can look forward to. Thank you to the Museum for working with us to establish times and days that work for all. 

A Message of Thanks

We would like to offer a huge thank you to the wonderful team at Wycombe Museum. Your kindness, patience, and encouragement mean a lot to all of us. You’ve helped create a space where our clients can grow, contribute, and feel proud of what they do. Every smile, every kind word, and every opportunity makes things better for everyone.

Also thank you our clients for showing the community what teamwork, dedication, and kindness look like every single day. We are very proud of you all!

We hope this collaboration inspires more local organisations to open their doors to volunteers with additional needs. When opportunities like this happen, everyone benefits. Read our blog to see the difference volunteering can make.

If you are visiting Wycombe Museum, keep an eye out for our amazing Oak Lodge volunteers. Give them a friendly smile or a wave.