Toy Doctor Volunteer – Fix, Tinker & Bring Toys Back to Life!

At Play Matters Toy Library, we believe great toys deserve plenty of opportunities to be played with!

Our community toy library has a collection of over 1,400 toys that local families borrow, enjoy and return. With so much play happening, things occasionally get broken, worn or need a little creative problem-solving to get them back in action.

We're looking for a handy, practical and creative volunteer to become our very own Toy Doctor!

What you'll be doing:

• Repairing wooden toys and play equipment where possible.

• Gluing loose or broken components.

• Fixing loose joints, handles and other small broken parts.

• Finding creative solutions to repair damaged toys.

• Assessing whether toys can be safely repaired or need to be retired (with consultation from Toy Library Committee).

• Helping us extend the life of our collection and reduce waste.

Every repair helps keep more toys available for local families to enjoy.

How you can help:

We know everyone's availability is different, so we're happy to be flexible.

Ideally, you'd be able to take toys home to assess and repair in your own time. If you'd prefer to work on repairs at the toy library, we are happy to accomodate that option too.

There's no need to commit to regular shifts. You can help as your availability allows, tackling repairs each week, once a month, or even every other. We are open every Saturday, 9am to 12pm.

What we're looking for:

• Someone who's handy, practical and enjoys fixing things.

• An interest in DIY, woodworking, craft, model making or creative problem-solving.

• Confidence using basic repair tools and adhesives, or a willingness to learn.

• Someone who takes care to ensure repairs are safe and durable.

• A community-minded person who enjoys making a difference behind the scenes.

You don't need professional qualifications. We value practical skills, creativity and a willingness to have a go!

Why become our Toy Doctor?

• Put your practical skills to good use.

• Help local families access a great range of toys.

• Reduce waste by repairing rather than replacing.

• Enjoy a flexible volunteer role that fits around your life.

• Become part of a community organisation that values play, sustainability and resourcefulness.

Ready to put on your Toy Doctor hat?

If you love fixing things, solving problems and giving well-loved items a second chance, we'd love to hear from you!

Join Play Matters Toy Library and help keep our toys in tip-top condition, one repair at a time.