Marie Curie shop volunteer loves interaction with customers

A retail volunteer, who has given her time to help the UK’s leading terminal illness charity for the past 15 years, says the customer interaction is her favourite part of the role. 

Jane Bartrum has volunteered at the Penarth Marie Curie shop for a decade and a half, and was recently presented with a bouquet of flowers during the shop’s reopening to mark the occasion. 

Jane, 68, said: “I wanted to help a charity and chose Marie Curie, because I had family who had been affected by terminal cancer. 

“I love the customers and the interaction with them. 

“My job for 39 years was in sales, so I love it and I love persuading customers to buy things. 

“I show our regulars what is new in the shop.” 

Jane has done all the different jobs that are available to do in the shop.

“I started on the steaming, so I don’t mind doing that. 

“I love being out on the shop floor too.” 

Jane added that she has built good relationships with the staff and volunteering team.

 “It’s a good atmosphere and we get good support from everyone.

 “It’s a wonderful shop and we have such high quality goods donated.  Because of its proximity to the hospice, people do support the shop very well.

 Penny Attwood, shop manager, said: “Jane’s dedication to her volunteering role is fantastic, and her support and the support of our other volunteers is vital to helping us provide a good service and great products to our customers.

 “The team here in Penarth think a lot of Jane.  She acts as a personal shopper for all of us, always picking out items for us which she knows we would like and will suit us, she also encourages us to buy clothing that we may consider to be a bit more adventurous.  We hope that keeps us looking and feeling young!

 “We’re currently looking for volunteer cover managers to join such a happy team to help us with the relaunch and move forward with our new store.  No experience is required and full training will be given.”

 Can you volunteer for Marie Curie? Visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/volunteering

 

Photo by Peter Bolter.  Pat Lannon (left) and Jane Bartrum