New shop in Dunstable offers opportunity for local people to get involved

This week sees Age Concern opening a brand new shop in central Dunstable. 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 important work that Age Concern does for older people in our community.    

Locally, Age Concern provides an information and advice service to the community, through a telephone service, home visits and outreach work at day centres. The shop has been opened in order to support these services and Manager Jo Solly is delighted with the modern look and feel of the shop. Jo is now looking forward to recruit volunteers from the local area to assist in the shop, ‘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.

Age Concern campaign on a national level against age discrimination and this philosophy is reflected in their shops with volunteers aged 14 and over made welcome and with no upper age limit. 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. Age Concern 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.

Age Concern is only able to provide its vital support services to older people due to the income generated by its network of shops. There are currently 400 shops in the UK, involving 1500 volunteers across the country. Why not join them?

For further information on opportunities with Age Concern 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 Age Concern

Age Concern supports all people over 50 in the UK, ensuring that they get the most from life. They provide essential services such as day care and information, campaign on issues like age discrimination and pensions and work to influence public opinion and government policy about older people. 

Contact
Georgina Sorrell, Volunteering Adviser, Voluntary and Community Action South Bedfordshire,
Email: volunteer@action-southbeds.org.uk