I’m 14 years old and I have been an Army Cadet for just over 12 months. The cadets recently gave me the opportunity to gain a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award. As part of this I am required to undertake a period of volunteering. Sadly my grandad passed away from terminal illness when I was just a baby and he received amazing care and support from his local hospice. This inspired me to want to help St Richard’s Hospice.
I’ve been volunteering in the St Richard’s Hospice Shop in St Swithin’s Street every Saturday morning for two months now. This was my first experience of work so I didn’t really know what to expect.
Everyone was very friendly and welcoming in showing me around and what to do. My role is working in the book shop, which is great for me as reading is one of my favourite hobbies. I sort, organise, tidy and price the books, ensuring they are stored on the correct shelf, deal with customer sales and donations of books. I especially enjoy working on the till and processing payments.
I love hearing about what books the customers like to read and helping them find what they are looking for. Every week is different, I’m meeting new people and learning new things. I’m so glad I decided to volunteer for St Richard’s as it makes me feel good to know that I’m helping a charity with such a worthwhile cause. I’m sure all the skills and experience I’m gaining will not only support my Duke of Edinburgh Award but will help me with my future career plans too.
Jacob Brown