Meet Our Volunteers

There’s no such thing as a typical Shop volunteer. Our volunteers come from all walks of life with a wide range of experiences and skills, and they all make a real difference to the BHF.

Joseph, aged 17, Romford shop
Joseph started volunteering at our BHF Shop in Romford in 2007. As well as studying twice a week at college and with a part time job, Joe always had plenty of time and energy to devote to the shop.

Joe says: "I was quite shy when I started at BHF, but I’ve learnt loads of different skills which has really helped my confidence. My favourite job is helping out with the fundraising during Valentines and Help a Heart month – there’s always something different to do and it’s good fun!"    

Janet, Horley shop
Janet has been a volunteer at our shop in Horley since December 2007.

Janet says: "I always brought my unwanted items to the shop and I asked if they needed volunteers. My husband died suddenly from a heart attack and I wanted to give something back to help other people avoid dying in the same way. I really enjoy the company of the staff and have made some good friends. I have met so many nice people here."

Russell, Age 40, Welshpool shop
Russell had been unemployed for some time when his local Jobcentre suggested he went on a training scheme to gain some work experience.

Russell says: "After seeing the happy atmosphere at the BHF Shop in Oswestry, I knew I wanted to join the team. I started a six month placement in 1999 and became a Shop Manager in the Welshpool shop in 2003.  I am so glad I completed my ‘Back to Work’ placement with the BHF.  I’d recommend it to anyone who is struggling to find employment as it’s a great way to develop skills and confidence."

Louise Chamber, Marjorie Martin, Joan Cragg and Pauline Emery, Falmouth shop

These four ladies have volunteered in the Falmouth shop for between 7-10 years and have become close friends - so much so that they have been on holiday together. 

Marjorie says: "I was shopping during the shops opening week and overheard a conversation between the two volunteers talking at the till saying ‘how they did not know what was going to happen on Friday as there were no volunteers! I asked if they needed any help, and I’m still here, over ten years later!" 

Louise says: "Having had a heart by-pass operation myself I vowed that when I recovered from the operation I would 'give something back'."

Joan says: "I had recently been widowed and found I had time on my hands. After thinking about what I could do, I decided to go into the shop, having seen notices about volunteers needed, and ask what help they required – that was over eight years ago!!"

Pauline says: "I joined the Falmouth team following my son's heart operation to replace a valve. While he was in hospital, I noticed the BHF logo on some of the equipment being used to help him during his recovery and said that when he was well again, I would like to 'give something back' to the BHF. 

"Then I saw a poster in the shop window about a coffee morning and decided to go along. It's been over seven years now."

Read more stories here

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