People with a passion for books are being encouraged to put their love of literacy to good use by volunteering for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The charity is looking for new recruits to join the team behind its thriving online Book Shop.
The fast-growing operation has become an important source of income, helping EACH continue its vital work across East Anglia.
Based at its Retail Distribution Centre (RDC) in Brunel Way, Thetford, the online shop sells hundreds of books every week and is experiencing a significant increase in donations. As a result, the team is keen to welcome additional volunteers to help keep up with demand.
“This is a role anyone who loves reading will thoroughly enjoy,” said Book Shop Manager Sue Nettleingham, who was speaking during national Volunteers’ Week.
“We sell all genres, and it’s fascinating what gets donated.
“They range from classics and children’s favourites to others that are rare and niche.
“There’s so much variety and, alongside the books, we’ve now introduced vinyl to our expanding portfolio.
“It’s great fun and we’d love to hear from anyone willing to get involved, even just for a morning or afternoon a week.
“As well as being fun, volunteering is also hugely rewarding and this is an opportunity to help our wonderful charity.
“Selling books and media is a key income stream and the money we generate makes such a difference.
“However, we can only do it with the help and support of volunteers and the community.”
Volunteers help unpack and organise crates of donated books, sort titles and check their suggested value online. Profitable books are listed for sale through the online shop, stored in the upstairs library and, when purchased, carefully packed and dispatched to customers.
Other donated books may be sold through the charity’s network of 56 shops.
In an average week, EACH sells around 270 books, with an average selling price of just over £11. The online Book Shop typically generates more than £3,000 a week and usually has around 5,500 books listed for sale.
Volunteer Barry Allen gives his time to support the operation and found out this week that he was among the winners of a scheme called Room to Reward – a national initiative aimed to reward exceptional volunteers with unsold hotel rooms, to provide a well-earned break.
Barry, whose success followed a tricky selection process, said: “It’s been a fulfilling experience helping EACH. I’ve been lucky to meet some fantastic people along the way.
“It’s great to do as a retiree because it keeps me active and social, meeting new people and spending time around the team.”
The department is currently supported by two members of staff and five volunteers, but the increasing volume of donations means additional help is needed.
Sue added: “It would be ideal for anyone of any age, including students fresh out of school or university.
“It’s a chance to pick up new skills, make friends and get a taste for doing something completely different. Others have described it as a brilliant experience.”
To find out more about volunteering with the online Book Shop, contact Sue Nettleingham via susan.nettleingham@each.org.uk or call 01842 777101.
National Volunteers’ Week runs until Sunday and celebrates the vital contribution volunteers make to charities, organisations and communities across the UK.
To find out more about volunteering for EACH, head here or email VolunteerServices@each.org.uk
