Barnardo's Stourbridge charity shop in plea for volunteers
A charity shop in the Black Country has launched an urgent appeal for volunteers after losing a third of its team amid the pandemic.
The Barnardo's store, on High Street in Stourbridge, made the plea after it saw volunteers numbers drop "dramatically" since reopening.
More than 20 volunteers usually give their time to the store – but older volunteers have been forced to shield themselves or others.
And younger volunteers have since ended their Duke of Edinburgh placements, with the number of hours volunteered dropping from more than 800 to fewer than 600.
Barnardo’s store manager Sandra Morgan said: "We completely understand why some of our volunteers are choosing to remain at home and we look forward to welcoming them back whenever they’re ready.
"In the meantime we continue to keep in touch with many of them on a regular basis to check they’re OK.
"However, so many people have been clearing their homes during lockdown and furlough that we’re snowed under with donations and therefore need to recruit as many helping hands as possible.
"We have opportunities throughout the week but specially on weekdays. Every hour is sincerely appreciated."
Volunteers can help with arranging window displays, styling mannequins, replenishing stock or serving customers at the till.
Skills
Safety measures have been put in place for all staff members – including aprons, gloves, masks and hand sanitiser.
Ms Morgan added: “Volunteering is a great way to make new friends and learn new skills, together with gaining important qualifications and experience which can help in the search for work.
"Some use it as a stepping stone to employment while others simply enjoy the social aspect.
"Whatever their reasons for joining us, they’re helping to provide a positive future to disadvantaged children and young people across the UK."
The store is open from Monday to Saturday, from 9.30am to 5pm, and on Sundays from 10am to 4pm – and offers a wide range of items.
For further information and to apply, visit www.barnardos.org.uk/volunteer-shop
