The Rowans Hospice in Purbrook is a local charity established in 1994 that looks after people with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses. It operates around 20 shops in and around the local area. As I enjoy volunteering it was a pleasure to help out in their shop during the festive period.
During my stint in the Church Street shop, I got involved in all aspects of the running of the shop, learning how to sort and price up donated goods, as well as organising the displays and serving customers - all under the careful supervision of shop manager Sue Reeves.
Our local charities do such great work, and their stores are an important way of helping them raise money. The Rowans is a particularly valuable facility for the whole area, and means a lot to many local people. I wanted to make a small contribution during this busy time, and I’m grateful to Sue for letting me loose in her shop - I hope I was more help than hindrance.
I love second-hand shopping myself, and must admit I couldn’t help buying a few items of fashion there after I finished my shift!
The Christmas and New Year period is a good time to support charity shops, either by buying gifts there beforehand, or donating unwanted presents afterwards. I would urge people to consider that if they find themselves with gifts that might perhaps be more appreciated by someone else. It’s all in a good cause, so there’s no shame in giving them away!