Did you have a paper round, or were you given the washing up? Maybe you mowed the neighbour’s lawn or worked in the corner shop? Well, Saturdays are calling again, because this corner shop needs you! At Ilmington Community Shop, we have lots of potential volunteers, but very few regular takers for Saturdays. We’re not quite sure why. “A few hours at the weekend could suit lots of people,” says our lovely volunteer Ros Jackson. “For instance, a young person who wants to work with someone more senior. If you’re retired, the days are all the same, so weekends work well. Then again, if you’re working Monday to Friday and you want to contribute to the village, a Saturday shift is ideal.” Ros has her weekends sorted: she teams up with buddy Nicky Schlatter on Sunday mornings. She also helps train new shop volunteers: “I think I trained around 40 during lockdown.” Ros has a long career in retail and training, for both Yves St Laurent and Lloyds Pharmacy, and she started volunteering for us as soon as she and husband David moved into the village five years ago. But it’s not specific retail experience you need, so much as a warm smile and a willingness to give a few hours a week. “You won’t be here on your own with loads of responsibility, says Ros, “There’s always someone to support you. Nicky and I are like a double act here on a Sunday. You’re just here to make everyone who comes in that door feel welcome and give them a lovely shopping experience. That’s what retail is all about. And if you commit to a particular shift, you can personalise it, which makes it even more fun.” If you would like a regular Saturday shift to make your own, whether you’re already on our volunteer list or not, please come and see manager Michele or call 01608 682838. Saturday is volunteering day @ilmingtonshop!
