Melksham volunteers praised by Barnardo’s

Generous Melksham volunteers have been praised by a national charity after donating an amazing 1,250 hours of help last year.
Barnardo’s is highlighting the importance of local support as part of national Volunteers’ Week.
Last year,Wiltshire residents offered a combined total of 13,600 hours of help in its shops and children’s services across the county, including 1,250 hours at the Verbena Court shop behind the Water Meadow restaurant.
However, despite this immense generosity, the charity still needs more support to transform the lives of the UK’s most vulnerable children.
Volunteers at the Melksham store can help with sorting the stock, steaming the clothes, arranging displays and serving customers, raising much-needed funds to continue the charity’s vital work.
Barnardo’s Melksham manager Helen West said, “We are sincerely grateful for each and every hour donated by the local community.
“Volunteering is such a rewarding experience and available to people of all ages and backgrounds.
“It’s a great way to make new friends and learn new skills, together with gaining qualifications and experience which can help in the search for work.
“Some use it as a stepping stone to employment, while others simply enjoy the social aspect.
“Whatever their reasons for joining us, they’re helping to provide a brighter future to disadvantaged children, young people and families.”
The Barnardo’s store is open Monday-Saturday from 9am-5pm and on Sundays from 10am-4pm.
The team always welcome donations of good-quality clothes, books, toys, games, CDs, DVDs, bric-a-brac and accessories, as well as offers of help from potential volunteers.
Call (01225) 436806.
It also has children’s services roles in various areas.
Visit www.barnardos .org.uk/volunteering or email MSW-Volunteering @barnardos.org.uk