Young people are playing an important role in supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care. So far this year, we have welcomed 35 Work placement students across our shops, Ecommerce, Fundraising and Marketing teams, along with 7 students completing their DofE placements with us. In addition we have hosted 2 students from Bournemouth and Poole College, completing 315 voluntary hours each, which forms part of their Digital course criteria, part of the T-Level Placement Scheme.
Bringing young people into our charity helps them discover the importance of hospice care, the difference local support makes, and how retail and fundraising help us continue to provide vital care in our community. In return, students bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm and new perspectives, while gaining valuable skills and experience for their future.
Volunteer voices – Javin
We recently welcomed Javin, a student from Corfe Hills School, who spent a week gaining experience at our Poole shop. Supported by our wonderful Shop Managers Sally and Bonnie, Javin enjoyed learning more about retail, meeting customers and discovering the work that happens behind the scenes to keep our shops running.
Q1) What made you choose Lewis-Manning for your work experience placement? I chose Lewis-Manning Hospice Care because I’ve never worked in a retail environment before. I also think it is important that I am helping a local charity which is an ethical thing to do!
Q2) What did you enjoy most during your time in the Poole shop?
I enjoyed meeting the customers that visited the shop and speaking to the staff. They all have different things to say and it’s fascinating sometimes to hear their stories.
Q3) What was your favourite part of your work experience placement?
My favourite part was serving customers at the till because I enjoy meeting all the people that come in the shop and its interesting to see what they buy.
Q4) What surprised you most about working in a charity shop? How much goes on behind the scenes which people don’t see or know about. Sorting donations to go into the shop, or to be transferred to other shops, pricing items, making room for more donations as them come in. Volunteering in the shop was a lot more work than I expected it to be, but it was good.
Q5) How would you describe your experience at the Poole shop in three words?
Valuable. Interesting. Interactive