Oral History Volunteer (HVC-2016)

We’re recruiting volunteers to help record oral history interviews and document Romford’s electronic music and club culture history.

Havering London is developing an immersive exhibition and archival collection exploring Romford’s electronic music and club culture heritage — focusing on a decisive decade (1989–1999).

Volunteers will record oral history interviews with people who significantly contributed to, worked in, or took part in Romford’s electronic music and club culture during the period.

People you will interview

·         DJs, promoters, MCs, producers and organisers

·         Regulars and people who travelled to events

·         Pirate radio contributors and behind-the-scenes technical people

·         Record shop staff, label contacts, flyer distributors, photographers

·         Bar staff, dancers, bouncers and other venue staff and anyone who helped make nights happen.

What skills do I need?

No previous experience is needed. You’ll receive training in oral history interviewing (including ethics, consent and GDPR) and you’ll learn new skills in listening, interviewing, and recording.

This role is ideal for people who are:

·         Good listeners - patient, curious, and able to focus on someone else’s experience.

·         Reliable and organised

·         Interested in how culture is built: the informal networks, DIY methods and shared knowledge behind the scene.

What you’ll learn

·         How to plan and structure an oral history interview

·         Interview technique (active listening, follow-up questions, pacing)

·         How to use recording equipment confidently

·         consent, GDPR and ethical practice

·         How to summarise interviews so they can be archived and accessed in the future

Training days

Session 1: 10 April, 10:00 to 16:30

Session 2: 15 April, 10:00 to 16:30

When do I need to be available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Where does this role take place?