An enthusiastic new charity shop volunteer says she is loving her role and has no regrets about stepping forward. Wendy Smith is a recent addition to the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) team at Aylsham Road, in Norwich.
She signed up during last month’s ‘Be the difference’ recruitment campaign and now comes into the shop every Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon.
“I absolutely love it,” said Wendy, who lives in Hellesdon.
“I already spent a lot of time in the shop as a customer because I love charity shops and especially this one in Aylsham Road. It feels special because it’s so big, beautifully laid-out and carefully colour coordinated.
“I was walking past one day and saw a sign in the window appealing for more volunteers. I liked the idea and thought ‘why not?’ I used to work in a supermarket but took voluntary redundancy to look after my elderly mum, who sadly died two years ago.
“Ever since, I’d been looking for something to get me out of the house, into the community and around people again. I also loved the idea of supporting such an incredible cause.
“Volunteering here is just perfect and, in time, I’m already thinking I’d like to take on more hours.”
Wendy, who has two sons and three granddaughters, admits she had a few nerves about learning to operate a till again. However, she was given full training and is now more than happy serving customers.
“I hadn’t used a till for years so had a few butterflies about that, but there was no need,” said the 60-year-old, who is married to Joe.
“There’s always someone here to ask if I have any questions and it’s lovely chatting to customers. Everyone’s so friendly. I also love sorting through donations. It’s fascinating and people are very generous with the things they give us to sell.”
Anyone interested in joining the team at Aylsham Road can pop into the shop, email Shop Manager Emma Parks via emma.parks@each.org.uk or call 01603 301475.
