Special Interest Groups (SIGs)

Special Interest Groups are a recent innovation of the Society. They are a response to OHS members wanting to develop networks and facilitate discussion with others who share common interests. Currently there are five of them.

For oral historians interested in recording the histories of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer communities.

Members with an interest in creating momentum for oral history projects relating to environment and climate change should join this Special Interest Group.

earth, globe, water
child, migration, childhood

For members of the Oral History Society with an interest in issues related to migration, both forced and voluntary.

For those with an interest in creative uses of oral history and creative practitioners working with life stories. 

An information hub and forum for those engaged with oral history in the higher education sector.

A group that brings together those that work with and within archives to preserve and provide access to oral histories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can set up a SIG and how?

Any member or group of members of the Oral History Society can submit a proposal to the Trustees of the Society (also known as “The Committee”) to create a Special Interest Group.  Proposals should be discussed in the first instance with the Special Interest Group Coordinator, who will shepherd them for ultimate consideration and discussion by the Committee. If a proposal is successful, each Group will have at least one Trustee member as a formal liaison between the Group and the Committee.

Why does there have to be a trustee involved?

SIGs are part of the formal work of the Society, can claim up to £250 a year from the funds of the Society, and represent the Society and its membership on a wider public stage. Clear lines of accountability and communication between the groups and the Committee are essential. So a SIG has to include a trustee as one of its members.

What can a Special Interest Group do?

Once agreed by the Committee, a Special Interest Group can elect its own officers and develop its own plan of work and activities. It can draw up to £250 from the funds of the Society annually, in support of its work, and can apply for additional funds. With the agreement of Trustees it can establish an additional membership fee and raise its own additional funds to support its work.

Who can join a Special Interest Group?

Any paid-up member of the Oral History Society can join a Special Interest Group. Please see the Group’s webpage for further information on conveners and their contact details.

Interested in starting a new Group?

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