Volunteer Spotlight- Helen Jackson: ‘Buildings at Risk’ Project

As we celebrate the launch of our ‘Buildings at Risk’ (B@R) project in South Derbyshire, we thought it was time to shine a spotlight on the people that have made the initiative such a success so far- our volunteers!

DHBT’s Heritage Development Officer and B@R project lead, Anna Cluley, recently sat down with Helen Jackson, a committed B@R project volunteer who has been involved since its inception.

Helen, when did you first become aware of the B@R project?

I first spotted information about the project on Facebook. There was a post about the launch events in Belper on a page called ‘What’s on in Derbyshire’. It sounded like a great initiative that was right up my street.

What was it about the B@R project that particularly appealed to you?

It ticked a lot of boxes for me. I really like history and am interested in the history of my local area and Derbyshire more generally. It’s been fantastic learning new things about my local area. I also love being outdoors and the project seemed like a great way to have a focus when I’m out and about on my bike, showing me what to look out for.

Another thing that I enjoy about the project is that it can make an ordinary trip out into an adventure. I can use the B@R app alongside my OS Map to plan a route that takes in as many Grade II listed buildings and monuments as possible. By doing this, I’ve visited so many new places that I would never normally think to go.

I’ve even been able to share the experience with younger family members- my niece loved going exploring in Crich using the app to track down the buildings. It was like a treasure hunt!

It certainly sounds like you’ve been getting the most out of the project! Can you tell me a few of your highlights from the project so far?

I think one of the biggest highlights for me has been being able to go on so many adventures right on my doorstep, discovering completely new places.

For example, I had a ride in Idridgehay and I found the most beautiful area with lambs, a stream and a cluster of historic buildings. It was completely idyllic, and I never would have found it without the B@R project sending me there. You just never know what you will find!

I take a sketchbook with me when I go out surveying and, as well as keeping a record of the buildings I’ve surveyed, I love capturing these moments and looking back on them later.

Another key highlight is the sense of purpose it gives to my rides- I feel like I’m doing my bit to help these historic buildings that might otherwise be forgotten about. As the project progresses, I’d like to get involved in the practical care of some of the structures identified as being ‘at risk’ in some way, to help secure their futures.

It’s so good to hear that you’ve had a positive experience with the B@R project so far. How does it fit into your lifestyle?

I’m quite recently retired, and I’ve found that surveying with the B@R project has become one of my main hobbies because I can fit it in when it suits me and it combines so many of my favourite things- sketching, the outdoors, walking and cycling- whilst giving me a focus.

I also like to think that it’s keeping my brain and my body active! It helps me to explore and investigate my surroundings and I’m learning new things all the time.

Thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us Helen. One last question- what would you say to someone who’s thinking about volunteering as part of the B@R project?

Do it! You will learn so much and meet lots of lovely people.

I’ve been on two of DHBT’s ‘Social Survey Strolls’ and they are always such relaxed, fun events and you learn an incredible amount from the DHBT team. What Allan [Allan Morrison - DHBT Trustee Lead for this project] doesn’t know about building styles and details isn’t worth knowing!

For anyone worrying about the technical side of using the app for the project as well- don’t. There is friendly support available whenever you need it. I’ve really enjoyed being a part of the ‘Buildings at Risk’ project so far and can’t wait for it to launch in more areas so I can get back out exploring new places.

If you would like to take the first step towards becoming a ‘Buildings at Risk’ project volunteer, send the team an email to:

volunteers@derbyshirehistoricbuildingstrust.org.uk

We are always happy to provide online support or arrange a 1:1 support session at a time to suit you.

This project was made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.

Photos

1.        Admiring the view with some essential refreshments at Kedleston! (Photo credit: Helen Jackson)

2.        Helen’s trusty steed outside the Church of St. James, Idridgehay during one of her B@R project adventures. (Photo credit: Helen Jackson)

3.        Helen demonstrating the use of the B@R app to survey a Grade II listed building. (Photo credit: Anna Cluley)

4.        Helen and Allan Morrison (DHBT’s B@R project Trustee Lead) on one of DHBT’s ‘Social Survey Strolls’ in Duffield, alongside other DHBT team members and volunteers. (Photo credit: Miles McIntosh)