Harrison then started at our Sheffield City Centre shop, where his responsibilities were to answer the phone, work on the tills and assist in the warehouse. In 2018 Harrison was invited to the BHF office at Greater London House, where he was awarded the Regional Young Volunteer of the Year award at just 17 years old for his hard work and dedication for giving up his weekends and evenings after college to volunteer.
Receiving the award gave Harrison a real sense of confidence, and was a huge achievement for him, he says “I think this award really shows what volunteers mean to the company and rewards them for all their hard work.”
After college, Harrison felt ready for a career change and wanted to apply for a paid position with the BHF. When the Assistant Manager role became available at Rotherham Home and Fashion store, and with a little encouragement and motivation from his Manager and colleagues, Harrison applied. “I was a little tentative to apply for such a big leap from volunteer straight to Assistant Manager, but I am glad I did.”
Harrison explains the process to apply was easy to follow, and he was supported at every stage by his colleagues.
Harrison was overjoyed when he found out he was successful in his application and is now a fantastic permanent member of the team.
Outside of working, Harrison is also a Cadet Instructor at Cudworth Fire Station, where he helps out at events with the cadets, with open days and car washes, which are all voluntary.
Harrison shares “I feel being at the BHF both as a volunteer and as an Assistant Manager has helped me through hard times. I have had a couple over the years, and I don’t think I would have got through them without the support of colleagues at the BHF. I also feel that being a volunteer for so long has meant I have built up my confidence because when I started I wasn’t very confident but have grown enough to apply to be a paid member of the team.”
Harrison has been described as a ‘really nice chap’, ‘an absolute asset to the BHF’, and ‘a great collaborative colleague who is always looking to support his store’ - we can’t thank you enough for your hard work and dedication Harrison!
If you’re feeling inspired by Harrison’s story, take a look at our Retail volunteering roles here, and start your BHF journey.