Derian House need volunteers for their Preston charity shop

Julie Nolan and Lynda Edwards are volunteers

Derian House Children’s Hospice is urgently seeking volunteers to help out at its charity shops across Lancashire.

They need volunteers to lend a hand in Preston, Leyland, Chorley and Horwich after they recently reopened following the last national lockdown.

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Not only are the shops popular with bargain hunters on the high street, but they provide a much-needed stream of income for the hospice which cares for over 400 seriously unwell babies, children and young people from across the North West.

Volunteers mean every penny spent by shoppers can go directly to the care of the children who need it most.

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Frances Lees, Derian’s Volunteer Co-ordinator, said: “Our shop volunteer roles are perfect for anyone who is friendly, sociable and who would enjoy providing our customers with a good experience.

“Volunteering is a great way of making new friends, learning new skills and giving back to your local community. There are so many good things about volunteering from meeting new people every day, increasing your confidence levels, enhancing your CV and learning new skills.”

Duties include serving customers and keeping them informed about the charity’s work, displaying goods and some light cleaning, all within a Covid-safe environment.

The benefits of volunteering are well-documented, with people reporting increased feelings of happiness and wellbeing.

Jade Louise Morris, 23, volunteers at Derian House Children’s Hospice charity shop whilst studying for an NVQ in retail and says she finds volunteering enjoyable and rewarding.

She said: “I’m gaining practical experience of working in a retail environment which is helping to support my studies. It’s also such a great feeling to know you’re making a difference and giving back.”

To register your interest for volunteering please call Frances Lees on 01257 233 300 or email frances.lees@derianhouse.co.uk

Are you interested in becoming a volunteer? Let us know in the comments below.