Last week saw the British Heart Foundation opening a brand new shop in central Leighton Buzzard. The shop, selling items including fashion, jewellery, books, music and china and glass, will provide an opportunity for local people to browse and purchase quality items at a competitive price, whilst supporting the BHF, the largest independent funder of heart research in the UK. 

For more than 40 years, the British Heart Foundation has been at the forefront of the fight against heart disease, funding research, education and much more.  The shop has been opened in order to support this work and Manager Laura Hillyer is delighted with the modern look and feel of the shop.  Laura is now looking forward to recruit volunteers from the local area, ‘It is key to our success that our volunteers reflect the diversity of the local community.  In this way we can ensure a high level of customer service and quality presentation of goods.’

As well as the opportunity to socialise and meet new people, volunteers can benefit by gaining retail experience, learning new skills and having the chance to specialise in an area of personal interest, such as fashions, jewellery, books or music.  New ideas are welcome, and there is an opportunity to receive training in customer service skills, including greeting customers and giving advice on purchases.  For those preferring a ‘behind the scenes’ role, there is plenty to do, preparing the stock for the shop floor, including steaming and pricing.  There is also the opportunity to get out and about by becoming a volunteer driver, picking up donations and delivering them to the shop.  Previous experience would be welcome but is by no means necessary as full training is given, including an induction, ongoing support and opportunities for personal development. 

The shop is open Monday-Saturday daytime with morning and afternoon shifts, although there are roles available that offer greater flexibility if required.  The British Heart Foundation reimburse out-of-pocket expenses such as travel, and if you claim benefits, you can still volunteer without your benefits being affected, but you are advised to inform your local Job Centre.

BHF shops raised over £9.4 million last year, all of which went towards the fight against heart disease, the UK’s single biggest killer.  There are currently more than 500 shops in the UK, involving 10000 volunteers across the country.  Why not join them?

For further information on opportunities with the British Heart Foundation please contact Georgina at Voluntary and Community Action on 01525 850559 or email volunteer@action-southbeds.org.uk  If you would like to explore other volunteering opportunities that are available in South Bedfordshire please contact Georgina for a Volunteering Directory or to arrange an informal chat.

ENDS

About the British Heart Foundation

The BHF is the largest independent funder of heart research in the UK.  They play an important role in funding education, reaching the public and health professionals.  They also provide life-saving cardiac equipment.