Recruitment drive at Willow Wood’s new Glossop shop

Willow Wood Hospice is seeking fresh volunteers to help at its new shop in Glossop.

The new store at 12 High Street West is much larger and busier than its old shop across the road and is in desperate need of extra pairs of hands. 

“We get really good donations,” said shop manager Caroline Lillis. “We have new deliveries every day from our distribution centre, so the stock changes all the time.” 

As well as second-hand toys, books, music and general bric-a-brac, the shop stocks pre-loved and new clothes. 

It is also open seven days per week, which Caroline says poses its own challenges. 

“It takes an army of volunteers to run. We need people. Whether you can commit to half a day or two hours, whatever you can spare we’re very grateful for. 

“The volunteers range in age from 16, doing their Duke of Edinburgh, all the way up to our oldest at 86. She’s puts us all to shame with how many hours she does, but there’s a real mix of ages and there’s something for everybody.” 

A huge attraction, especially for the older volunteers, is mixing with other people. 

“Lots of our older ladies and gentlemen have had big careers and big jobs,” said Caroline. “The volunteering keeps them busy, active and gives them a social life that they might not otherwise have had.” 

Around 600 people across Tameside and Glossop volunteer for Willow Wood. If you want to help at their charity shop in Glossop, pop into the branch for an application form, or email volunteering@willowwood.org.uk