Two Reading museums have been acknowledged for their volunteer contributions this month.

Reading Museum and The Museum of English Rural Life (The MERL) have both successfully renewed their Investing in Volunteers quality standard, having applied as a partnership for the first time.

The title has been achieved by the two museums as part of the Museums Partnership Reading (MPR).

The National Council of Voluntary Organisation’s Investing in Volunteers (IiV) aims to ensure quality volunteering experiences and that organisations acknowledge the enormous contributions made by volunteers.

An assessor from IiV visited the museums in December and interviewed museum staff and volunteers from across the museums.

Reading Borough Council’s Reading Museum and The MERL at the University of Reading were assessed against a range of best practice standards, including showing a commitment to volunteers; valuing and recognising their contribution to the organisation; providing flexible, enjoyable volunteering opportunities; providing clear procedures and appropriate resources and offering fair recruitment that reflects the diversity of the local community.

The museums benefit from the 146 volunteers involved in a wide range of activities, including visitor and public engagement.

Behind the scenes roles include wardrobe assistants, collections volunteers, sewing, knitting, learning and gardening volunteers.

There are also one-off roles such as helping to develop social media and outreach projects.

Jen Woodhams, from east Reading, volunteers as an historical interpreter with Reading Museum, playing Empress Matilda.

She has also previously volunteered with The MERL as a tour guide.

"I started with The MERL as a volunteer tour guide in early 2011 shortly after I had retired," said Jen,

"I’ve always loved history and the role gave me a unique insight into the history of Reading.

"The role eventually led to paid work at the museum, which is always a bonus!

"I don’t think you can underestimate the avenues volunteering opens up for you.

"My present role volunteering with Reading Museum as Empress Matilda allows me to indulge my love of dressing up in a fabulous costume, with my passion for history and in bringing local history to life for people.

"I think many people are surprised by what a rich history Reading actually has!"

Isabel Hughes, The MERL’s head of curatorial and public engagement, said: "We are delighted to have been awarded Investing in Volunteers status again.

"The scheme helps ensure we represent best practice for volunteering.

"This time we have been able to apply in partnership with Reading Museum, opening the way for our volunteer teams to work more closely, and for us to promote new volunteering opportunities widely across Reading.

"We value highly the contribution that local people and our students make to the life of The MERL when they volunteer with us.

"Over the past year we have supported 125 volunteers who donated over 4,500 hours of their time."