Join us online to learn about a new volunteer research project revealing untold stories in historical collections from Garlands Asylum (Carlisle Archives), Winterton Hospital (The Story, Durham), and St George’s Hospital (Woodhorn, Northumberland). The event will be via Teams on Thursday, 20 November, 6pm to 7pm.

County asylum records give a rare and intimate glimpse into the past through medical notes, casebooks, family letters, and photographs. The project traces patients from lead mining communities to shed light onto the emotional worlds of people who are often absent from historical records save a name on a census report.

There are several roles for volunteers as the project develops including transcribing case notes, photographing records, and researching census reports and newspapers, to build patient life stories. No prior experience is necessary, and volunteers will be supported in learning and sharing new research skills.

(Please note that this project is for adults only. The historical records use outdated terminology to describe disability and mental health conditions and may also contain material that some people may find distressing. This will be discussed during the session.)

Please sign up using the volunteer platform Better Impact