Research Volunteer – Erith Underground Hospital

Habitats & Heritage; Erith; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a passionate team dedicated to preserving history by researching the unique underground hospital in Erith. This volunteer role invites you to explore the fascinating past of a building that served as a Civilian Field Hospital during World War II. Your insights will contribute to finding a new purpose for this historic site, ensuring its legacy continues. If you have a knack for archival research and a desire to make a difference in your community, this is a wonderful opportunity to engage in meaningful work while gaining valuable experience.

Qualifications

• Some experience in archival research would be beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Research the history of the underground hospital and its connections.

Skills

Archival Research

Job description

As part of our outreach and networking work, we are aiding Erith and District Hospital as they look to repurpose their surviving and unique underground hospital at Erith Hospital. We need research volunteers to look into the history of the building and its connections.

Built in 1938 by Erith Borough Council and opened in 1939 as a Civilian Field Hospital for World War Two, the building was constantly occupied by staff and volunteers. It was just one of several underground hospitals planned, but the only other to survive in England is the one at Dover Castle. In 1950, it was converted into an X-Ray department and continued to be used for this purpose until the summer of 2024. It is now vacant, and a new use for the building needs to be found.

Some experience in archival research would be beneficial.

For further information and to apply, please contact our Heritage Project Officer, Jess Vining, by emailing [e-mail].