Dilton Marsh volunteer featured in national report on charity shops

A Dilton Marsh volunteer is featured in a national report which highlights the importance of charity shops for the local community.

‘Giving Something Back’ has been published by the Demos thinktank and supported by the Charity Retail Association.

The report attracted national headlines after stating such shops were “in the frontline of the fight against unemployment”, providing a number of benefits for local businesses, residents and communities.

Dilton Marsh volunteer Kath Leach is featured in the section on the “social value” of volunteering, after working at the Barnardo’s shop in Frome for more than 15 years.

Barnardo’s shop manager Judith Loughlin said, “We are thrilled to be associated with such an important report which highlights the immense value of charity shops. It recognises how we all help to encourage recycling and then sell to people at affordable prices, while raising much-needed income for good causes.

“The report also states how charity shops have moved away from the old image of being ‘dusty and disorganised’ and are now much more professional

“We’re providing lots of work experience opportunities for people looking to take their first step into employment, as well as those wanting to return to work. In addition, we’re also helping to maintain footfall in our town centres by attracting shoppers who are keen to browse for a bargain.”

Kath, aged 83, said, “I’ve always enjoyed volunteering because you get to meet so many people, and we’ve got a great team of all ages.

“Volunteering gives me a reason to get up and out of the house. It keeps me happy and it’s great to know that we’re helping vulnerable children at the same time.”

Warren Alexander, of the Charity Retail Association said, “Charity shops not only raise vital money for their parent charities but they also bring huge value to their local communities and this report gives some clear insight into those benefits.”

The Barnardo’s shop in Frome is open Monday-Saturday from 9.00am-5.00pm and on Sundays from 10.00am-4.00pm, and always welcomes good-quality donations as well as offers of help from potential volunteers. Call 01373 463513.

The Demos report can be viewed at www.demos.co.uk