New shop manager Elliott Harris has swapped criminology for customers in his quest to raise vital funds for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The 30-year-old has taken the reins at the charity’s shop in Framlingham and just completed his first month in the hotseat, having joined on 5th January.
He says it is a dream come true to work for an organisation he has such respect for – albeit having taken a very different career path to the one he first expected.
Elliott graduated from Canterbury Christchurch University with a degree in criminology but, in need of a job, began working for Asda.
It was the start of a journey that has led to a decade in retail, including working for the supermarket giant’s online operation and managing one of its warehouses.
Then, three years ago, he switched to charity retail after becoming assistant manager of the Children’s Society shop in Ipswich.
“Now I’m absolutely delighted to be here at EACH,” he said.
“It’s a charity I’ve got huge respect for and one I’ve always been aware of, living just a couple of minutes from The Treehouse and a stone’s throw from the EACH shop in Felixstowe Road, Ipswich.
“Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming, and it’s such an inclusive environment to work in.
“It’s also a charity that resonates with me, having grown up with arthritis since I was 13.
“I’m not for a moment comparing that to some of the conditions seen at the hospice, but it did mean I had a very different childhood compared to a lot of my friends.
“It affects all parts of my body, especially my elbows, wrists, neck and jaw, and it’s something I manage with regular injections and pain-relief.
“I know it affected my parents, as well as me, so I feel a connection with the children and families being supported by EACH.
“I feel a deep sense of motivation, knowing every pound we raise makes a genuine difference.”
Despite deviating from his initial career plan, Elliott has no regrets and says he cannot imagine working in any other field.
“I love it so much because no two days are ever the same,” he said.
“I start every day with a plan, but it can go out the window by 9.05am. I love that unpredictability and having to adapt to different situations.
“I also love interacting with customers, and it’s fascinating because you never know what’s going to be in the next bag of donations or the next thing someone is going to ask for.
“Sometimes people will come in with the most unusual requests, and it’s such a lovely feeling being able to help them.”
Elliott, who is married to Lizzie, says he could not do what he does without a strong core of volunteers.
However, he would love to hear from anyone else interesting in joining the team, especially if they can help in the afternoons or at weekends.
For more information, pop in for a chat or head here.
EACH’s shop in Bridge Street, Framlingham, is open from 9am until 5pm, Monday to Saturday.
