Madam - On behalf of children’s charity Barnardo’s, I wanted to thank Bev Holder and the Stourbridge News for highlighting the urgent plea for help at our Stourbridge High Street store (‘Town charity store desperate for help’, 10 September).
We lost a third of team due to a combination of older volunteers continuing to self-isolate due to the pandemic, and younger volunteers whose Duke of Edinburgh placements had come to an end.
The sudden drop in support meant we faced the prospect of having to reduce our opening hours which would have hampered our ability to raise much-needed funds for our work with vulnerable children across the UK.
However, as a result of the article we have been delighted to welcome five new volunteers which will be a tremendous help. This is a great outcome and a reflection of the community spirit within the town.
We still have opportunities throughout the week but especially on weekdays. Every hour is sincerely appreciated.
Volunteers can help with arranging window displays, styling mannequins, replenishing stock or serving customers at the till.
Safety measures have been put in place for all teams, including aprons, gloves, masks and hand sanitisers.
For further information and to apply, visit www.barnardos.org.uk/volunteer-shop
Sandra Morgan
Barnardo’s store manager
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