Join our team of welcomers

Our volunteer welcomers are a brilliant team of friendly faces who offer a very warm welcome to everyone visiting the Cathedral!

You will find some of our volunteer welcomers at the entrance to the Cathedral’s Hostry every day. They are there to say a cheerful hello and answer visitors’ questions to ensure everyone has the best possible experience during their time at Norwich Cathedral.

We are always looking for more people to join our team of welcomers and you can find out more about how to apply by clicking the button below.

Below two of our welcomers share what they love most about the role.

Clive Sexton

Clive Sexton, a 65-year-old retired accountant from the Golden Triangle area of Norwich, has been a welcomer for three years.

Why did you become a volunteer?

I had enjoyed visiting the Cathedral for many years, and had felt that I would like to help here when I had time. Following the death of my mother, I wanted to create a more positive narrative in my life. And I had some spare time. But I had no idea what role I could carry out. All I knew was that I wanted to do something different from my professional career in accountancy.

What does your volunteer role involve?

I welcome visitors and help them to enjoy their time at Norwich Cathedral. That includes showing them where to go, explaining what is happening in the building, pointing out where to light a candle……..Lots of people are not sure whether or not they (and their dog!) are allowed into Norwich Cathedral.An important part of my role is to encourage those who are uncertain about visiting. And, of course, I say goodbye when they leave and direct them to bus stops, shops, museums…..

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Meeting such a diverse range of people and working out what sort of welcome each would like. We are definitely not reading from a script! A friendly welcome and appropriate words can make a huge difference to someone’s visit. I feel very privileged to be standing where visitors have been greeted for over 900 years!

What do you enjoy most about volunteering at Norwich Cathedral in general?

Being part of, and contributing to, a kind, caring and supportive community. Every day there is something happening. Sometimes vibrant, sometimes contemplative, Norwich Cathedral has varying moods. It is a living entity. No two shifts are the same, I never know who I might meet, and I have had so many great conversations!

Why would you encourage other people to do your volunteer role at Norwich Cathedral?

It’s tremendously enjoyable! If you like people, and want to help them, this is a great role to have. You also get to stand in a Norman Cathedral that people travel to from the other side of the world. A few years ago I wouldn’t have envisaged being a Welcomer at Norwich Cathedral. I’m so happy that I gave it a try. I’ve experienced so much joy from volunteering here!

Parami Ratnayake

Parami Ratnayake, 43, who lives in Norwich, became a welcomer in October 2024.

Why did you become a volunteer?

I chose to volunteer as a welcomer at the Norwich Cathedral because I am passionate about creating a welcoming environment for visitors and helping them appreciate its great history and significance. The Cathedral is a place of beauty, reflection, and community, and I find great fulfilment in providing guests with a warm and informative experience.

What does your volunteer role involve?

My role is welcoming visitors with a smile and warm words and also help visitors find their way around the building and give information about the events at the Cathedral. A welcomer is the first person every visitor meets on arrival and the last person they see before leaving.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

As a welcomer at Norwich Cathedral, I take pride in providing a warm and inviting atmosphere for all visitors. I enjoy greeting guests, offering insights into the cathedral’s rich history and significance, and ensuring visitors have a meaningful and engaging experience.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering at Norwich Cathedral in general?

Norwich Cathedral offers a peaceful and welcoming environment, making it a truly special place. Volunteering at the Cathedral has been an enriching experience for me, as I feel supported and valued by the community. The Cathedral’s serene atmosphere and strong sense of unity create the perfect setting to contribute and connect with others.

Why would you encourage other people to become a welcomer at Norwich Cathedral?

It’s an incredible experience being a welcomer at Norwich Cathedral. It’s an opportunity to develop new skills, build up meaningful connections and be part of something bigger than oneself. Plus, the sense of fulfilment that comes from giving back is truly rewarding.

Welcomers: Key Facts

The Role

Offer all visitors a warm welcome

Hand out a free welcome booklet and give out Explorer Backpacks to children

Offer directions around the Cathedral site and further afield in the city

Be a source of information about events in the Cathedral and able to respond to a wide range of general questions about the Cathedral and the city.

Training

Learning is mainly through working alongside other volunteers plus an Introduction to Welcome training session, C1 safeguarding training and a guided tour of the Cathedral.

Time Commitment

One shift of 2 or 2.5 hours per week

How to apply

Click the button below to download our volunteer application forms and email your completed forms to volunteersadministrator@cathedral.org.uk