Although some of our volunteers originate from the UK many are from overseas and for them being at Braziers is an opportunity to experience and adapt to a foreign culture and improve their English. They also have the opportunity to meet other volunteers from different countries, who may also have different cultural backgrounds.

How do I apply to volunteer at Braziers?

Please click here to download a Braziers Park Volunteers’ application form, which is the first stage of volunteering with us. Complete and return this via e-mail with a recent photograph,and our volunteer co-ordinator will be in touch as soon as possible.

What does volunteering for the house team at Braziers involve?

A typical day working on the house team may include: • cleaning the house and other domestic work • cooking for or hosting duties for our guests • work in the gardens and on the estate • painting and decorating • maintenance work

How many hours per week do volunteers at Braziers work?

The working week is approximately 30 hours over 5 days. A planning meeting is held every weekday morning at 9.00 am to organise the daily workload. The basic working day is 9.00 am until 4.00 pm with a one hour break for lunch. There are duties that also require work at other times (such as preparing the evening meal, shutting away the chickens etc). Weekly evening meetings are held, at which people gather to talk about things they have enjoyed during the week, to share experiences, to give information, or to raise problems. Attendance at these meetings is, of course, encouraged.

What kind of character are you looking for?

• People with initiative

• Good communicator

• Works well in a team as well as alone

• Resourceful

• Creative

• Willing to learn

• Willing to engage in active leadership if called on

What does Braziers Park offer in return for voluntary work?

• Training – in cookery for large numbers, in hosting and daily running/maintenance of a large venue

• A reference for future employers

• Informal discussion time with residents

• Chance to improve English provided level is already intermediate

• Quiet, reflection space for personal projects and transformation

Are there any restrictions involved in living at Braziers?

We eat a restricted meat diet, which means that some days we do not eat meat at all. When a meat meal is served, a vegetarian option is always available. We try to produce as much of our own food as we can and we grow it organically, with as little impact on the environment as possible. No smoking is allowed in any part of the main house, though, of course, you can smoke outside on the estate if you wish.

How long can I stay as a volunteer at Braziers?

Volunteers may stay for anything between a few days and 3 months, depending upon availability of work, supervision and accomodation.We would prefer your initial visit to be at least 1 week long to give us the chance to get to know each other.

I have volunteered at Braziers Park before – does this guarantee me a placement now?

Priority is currently given to new volunteers rather than returners (of whom we have many!) to give people who have not volunteered with us before the chance to do so. This does not mean that returning volunteers are not welcome – quite the contrary!

How would I travel to Braziers?

Braziers is about 8 km from the nearest railway station, and travelling by bus and train, we are about 1.5 hours from Heathrow airport. Full details can be provided if you are accepted as a volunteer house team member, or you may visit our How To Find Us page.