Gorton Heritage Research Volunteer

Gorton Together HLF Project Volunteer Role Description (Social media)

Organisation:
Healthy Me Healthy Communities CiC
Project:

Gorton Together — National Lottery Heritage Fund (HLF) Project

Location:

Home based OR Gorton Central, M18 8PG

Time commitment:
Flexible; suggested 2–4 hours per week

About the Project:
Healthy Me Healthy Communities CiC has received funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to deliver Gorton Together, a two-year heritage initiative celebrating the rich social and community history of Gorton Central — formerly Gorton Community Centre and originally Johnstone’s Paint factory (earliest recording 1937).

The project will collect oral histories, photographs,documents and artefacts to create a publicly accessible working‑classheritage archiveto be stored at Manchester Central Library with displays at Gorton Central.

Role/

Purpose:

To support the baseline, initial groundwork community research and documentation of the social and community history of Gorton Central.

Key Tasks:

• Researching the history of Gorton Central, (formerly Gorton Community Centre) and Johnstone’s Paint Factory by using social media specifically. Early searches have indicated social to be a rich source of local community information & memories.
• Identifying and reviewing posts, photographs, documents, records and following up leads.
• Supporting the organisation of research linked to oral histories, where appropriate.
• Recording findings accurately in agreed formats.
• Sharing progress and findings with the project team via a shared online folder.
• Working independently while following project guidance and timescales.

Skills and Qualities Needed:

• Interest in community heritage, social history and community stories.
• Some research or heritage experience (voluntary, academic, professional or personal).
• Sensitivity and respect when working with working‑class heritage and lived experience.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Confidence using digital research tools, online archives and social media platforms.
• Good attention to detail and accurate record‑keeping.
• Basic digital skills, including email and online communication.
• Organised, methodical approach and willingness to learn.

What We Provide:
Training, guidance and ongoing support.
Clear research direction and parameters.
Opportunity to contribute to a significant working‑class heritage project.

If interested do feel free to contact & ask any questions:

Final date to receive applications: 16 August 2026