A hard-working charity shop volunteer says the joy of meeting customers has allowed her to rekindle a much-loved element of her working life.
Penny Irons spends two afternoons a week helping in the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) store in Sudbury.
It is something she feels passionately about, and she is sharing her story as part of a new volunteer recruitment campaign running exclusively in the North Street shop.
The aim is to encourage extra pairs of hands, to generate funds to help EACH continue its vital work supporting families across East Anglia.
Penny says she would heartily recommend it and says having a customer-facing role has allowed her to reprise a role that she enjoyed during her working life.
“I’m a real people-person, love chatting and enjoy the company of others,” said the 76-year-old, who previously worked in three well-known stores in Sudbury.
“Throughout my career in retail, I was always customer-facing and liked being able to help others.
“That’s what I’m used to, and I knew it was something I’d miss when I retired.
“When the opportunity came up to volunteer here in the shop, I jumped at the chance.
“It’s been great for me and gets me out of the house a couple of days a week.
“Everyone’s friendly and I love being on the till, where I know I’m going to get the chance to meet and talk to lots of new people.
“I appreciate it wouldn’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but there are lots of different jobs – some on the shop floor and others behind the scenes – to suit people’s tastes and personalities.”
Penny lives in Great Cornard and is married to the shop’s Sales Supervisor, Stuart.
She has been volunteering for more than two years and says she often encourages others to follow her lead.
“We do need more help here,” said the mum-of-two, who also has a granddaughter.
“I’m always trying to recruit people and genuinely think there’s something for everyone. That’s part of the appeal and it’s a great set-up.
“We just need more people to spread the load, and what an amazing charity to support.
“I can’t think of anything better than a cause that supports children and families, and I’d encourage anyone to come and join us here in Sudbury.
“It’s a great way to help and make a difference, and I can guarantee they’ll find it a fun and rewarding experience.”
EACH has a fast-growing retail operation, and there are various opportunities to suit people’s skills and interests, from serving customers to sorting and pricing donations, dressing windows, steaming clothes, testing electrical equipment and listing items on eBay.
To find out more about volunteering for EACH in Sudbury, pop in for a chat, call 01787 379132 or email Shop Manager Bev Williams via Bev.Williams@each.org.uk
