Hospice
Fundraising
Tom began volunteering in our Forest Hall shop when he was just 15 and, two years on, still loves spending time in the store, volunteering twice a week alongside his college course.
“I was in High School and I was just looking for something to do outside of school hours. I wanted to make a difference in my community, and I was interested in joining the retail industry. I felt as though volunteering in a charity shop could really help me.
“I enjoy the shop community. A typical day for me would be spent on the till serving customers. Sometimes I’m in the back sorting stock or I’m making teas and coffees for the team.”
Not only has Tom enjoyed meeting new people, whether that be customers, volunteers or staff, he’s also developed a newfound confidence;
“I feel like when I started, I was a shy person but now I’m more confident. I’ve learnt teamwork, cash handling, working on the till, sorting, steaming and tagging. Which is all positive and I can use in my future.”
Whilst volunteering at the shop, Tom heard about an opportunity to support onsite at the Hospice as a Ward Helper on our Adult Inpatient Unit;
“I help the people on the ward, I get teas and coffees, maybe have a chat with them or even give them a meal. I feel as though that’s very helpful. It feels like I’m doing something really good.
“If you’re thinking of volunteering with St Oswald’s Hospice I would say definitely go for it. It really, really pushes you out there and helps with your CV and it really boosts your confidence.”
We popped along to the Forest Hall Charity Shop to chat with Tom, watch the full interview here
Find out about volunteering at St Oswald’s Hospice here.
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