Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity, a much-loved palliative care service in Northampton, is calling for your presence rather than your presents this Christmas in a drive to recruit much-needed volunteers.
The charity, which this year has launched its Big Charity Shop in Moulton Park and its Reuse Shop at Sixfields, is calling for the community to give the gift of time this festive season and lend a hand by volunteering in both retail outlets.
The Presence Not Presents campaign aims to recruit as many retail volunteers as possible during December and into 2026, to help with packing, picking, sorting donations, and working on the tills at both sites, which raise vital cash for Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity.
Currently the new Reuse Shop has no volunteers at all and is operating on a skeleton staff. Shifts are available seven days a week between 10am and 4pm, though volunteers can give as much or as little time as might suit.
Volunteering is a fantastic way for anyone with a few hours to spare to make new friends and give back to the community. The roles would particularly suit students, young professionals, who might want to gain transferrable skills to enhance a CV, and give a strong competitive advantage with prospective future employers.
Similarly, anyone with an interest in sustainability or recycling would also benefit from the experience, which not only allows volunteers to learn new skills such as customer service and social media management, but also teaches environmentally friendly practices and how to identify high-value items.
Ruth Bain, head of commercial at Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity, said: “We desperately need more people to help in our shops to be an intrinsic part of our amazing retail teams on a continuous basis. Whatever amount of time you’re able to give makes such a huge difference, whether it’s one hour a week or one day.
“Every season brings new delights and exciting volunteering opportunities, and we would love you to be a huge part of our teams throughout the year.
“Our shops have a wonderful atmosphere and a friendly team, and our volunteers are able to park here for free and use all our facilities. Though weekends are the busiest time for customers and donations in store, both shops are busy every day, all week, so any time you can give would be hugely beneficial.
“Get out of the house, gain work experience, make friends and give back to the community, all while supporting a great cause and saving the planet!
“Volunteering with us not only supports the vital care that our charity provides to local patients and their loved ones but also offers a chance to meet new people, learn new skills, and be part of a cause that truly changes lives.”
To find out more about how you can help the Presence Not Presents drive, visit the Cynthia Spencer website.
