Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At Bristol Dockyards, we’re committed to building a place where everyone feels they belong.
Heritage belongs to us all. The stories we share, the people we work with, and the audiences we welcome should reflect that. By removing barriers, listening carefully, and being accountable for meaningful change, we hope this becomes a space that everyone feels themselves in.
We do this by ensuring we are thoughtful and inclusive employers, so that our staff, volunteers and partners feel able to be themselves. We are working to ensure more perspectives are embedded in how we work, operate and programme our spaces.
We’re always learning, so if you have feedback, ideas, or concerns, we’d love to hear from you.
Enabling access to heritage
We want more people to feel that heritage is for them. We create ways for people from all walks of life to get closer to the SS Great Britain and its remarkable stories, technology, people, and social history. Each year, our Golden Ticket scheme welcomes hundreds of families who might not otherwise be able to visit. We also offer free tickets to essential companions, and expanded concessions including under‑25s and locals who live on Spike Island.
We’re working to ensure our exhibitions, events, and interpretation represent a wider range of voices, past and present, so more people can see themselves in the stories we tell.
Through monthly workshops and outreach visits tailored to different needs, our Community Team works with partners across the city to reach families and individuals who might not otherwise engage with heritage attractions.
Since 2022, our Community Research Programme has brought people from underrepresented communities into the heart of our work, supporting original research and publications inspired by discoveries in our archive. Our community advisory board, The Boat Club (established in 2023) brings lived experience into planning and decision‑making, and recently helped shape the expanded SS Great Britain Experience. Want to get involved? Read more about our community work.
Accessible facilities
A visit to Bristol Dockyards should feel welcoming for everyone. We offer Calm Sensory Sessions for visitors who benefit from a quieter environment, plus a range of support including wheelchairs, ear defenders, Braille resources, and step‑free access to key areas of the site.
Inclusion in the workplace
We’re building a team and volunteer community that reflects the rich diversity of Bristol and beyond. That means fair recruitment, a welcoming culture, and practical support so people can do their best work. Here are some of the steps we’ve taken:
Anonymised applications at shortlisting stage to help reduce unconscious bias.
Disability Confident recruitment: we offer an interview to applicants who meet the essential criteria and identify as disabled under the Equality Act 2010.
We offer an interview to applicants from underrepresented ethnic groups who meet the essential criteria for the role.
Flexible working is part of how we work; hybrid arrangements where suitable, with part‑time roles across the team.
Reasonable adjustments available at any stage of recruitment and throughout employment.
Mental Health First Aiders available for a listening ear and signposting.
People‑centred training for all staff to help prevent harassment and ensure everyone feels safe, respected, and supported.
Inclusive facilities: we’re improving toilets and changing spaces across the site.
Introduced a range of accessible and flexible volunteering opportunities so more people can participate.
Come as you are
From conservation to visitor experience, we're looking for passionate people.