Do you enjoy discovering hidden treasures, researching unusual finds or selling items online? If the answer is yes, we’d love to hear from you.
Our Online Sales team, based at our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre on Langham Street (off Oldham Road) in Ashton-under-Lyne, is looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers to join our growing department.
No two days are the same. You could be sorting donations, researching interesting items, taking photographs, packing orders or preparing listings for our online selling platforms. Donations can include everything from ceramics and vinyl records to clothing, books and electrical items.
Volunteer hours are flexible between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday, so whether you can spare a morning, an afternoon or a full day, we’d love to welcome you to the team.
It’s an exciting time to get involved. Our Online Sales team manages our eBay, World of Books and Vintage Cash Cow platforms, and we’ve recently re-launched our Vinted page. Every item sold helps raise vital funds to support patient care at Willow Wood Hospice.
Ben Williams, who recently joined the team alongside Sally Dawson, said: “I’ve had my own eBay business for over three years. Since coming in, we’ve tried to streamline our processes and make everything more efficient, spending more time taking photos and listing items to raise as much money as possible to support patient care at the Hospice. It’s a fantastic place to work and a great time to get involved. Your role can be tailored around your skillset and what you’re interested in, so it really is varied and flexible.”
If you’d like to become part of our Online Sales team, please contact Lisa Pye, our Volunteer Services Manager, by emailing volunteering@willowwood.org.uk or calling 0161 330 1100 to find out more.
What a year it has been! Just twelve months ago, our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre opened its doors, transforming a warehouse into a vibrant retail hub – not just a place to donate and shop, but a place with heart.
From our Opening Day on 12th October to the launch of our branded vans and improved collection and delivery service, every milestone has helped the team grow stronger together.
Highlights included a Family Fun Day, filled with laughter and music, and the unveiling of our community garden – now a welcoming green space for everyone.
Behind the scenes, success has been powered by our staff and volunteers, including young people from the Tameside YES scheme. We’ve also welcomed many new faces – individuals and corporate volunteers – whose energy and commitment have made a huge difference.
“We’ve all learned so much this past year – and we’re still learning every day,” said Paul King, Warehouse and Logistics Manager. “Shopping or donating here isn’t like your typical charity shop. There’s always something happening, plenty of space to browse, and a real buzz thanks to our customers, staff, and volunteers.”
Most importantly, thank you to everyone who has donated, shopped, or supported this multi-faceted retail hub. You’ve helped make this outlet truly special.
Here’s to another year of growth, community, and making a difference TOGETHER.
If you’re thinking of giving back and making a difference in your community, this is the perfect opportunity to come along and find out more about volunteering with Willow Wood Hospice.
Our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre on Langham Street (off Oldham Road) in Ashton-under-Lyne is holding a Volunteer Recruitment Day on Saturday 9th August from 10am to 2pm.
There are a range of flexible roles available – from helping with eBay and sorting through donations to being a Retail Assistant or a Driver’s Mate. You’ll get a glimpse of what’s involved in the video below…
What to expect on the day:
• Tours of the premises every hour on the hour
• Meet our friendly team in a relaxed environment
• Say hello to our mascot Woody!
• Enter our raffle to win a hamper worth over £50
Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, meet new people, or simply want to support a local cause, we’d love to see you there.
In early 2024, our Retail and Volunteering teams embraced a promising new opportunity to support local young people in collaboration with Tameside Council.
The Youth Employment Support (YES) scheme is aimed at helping 16 to 24-year-olds into the world of work, encouraging local organisations to offer at least six months of paid employment.
The scheme provides funding to make it easier for employers to give young people an opportunity.
Last year, we welcomed our first participant, Declan Ranahan, through the scheme—and he quickly made his mark. Declan has since progressed into a full-time role, balancing his Driver’s Mate position with an apprenticeship supported by Clarendon Sixth Form College.
Declan (pictured at the front) has established himself as part of our Retail team
His success has paved the way for others. Since Declan’s start, five more young people have joined our Retail team through the scheme, working at the Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne and our Purchase and Donate Shop in Stalybridge.
Each of them has brought enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a fresh perspective.
Paul King, our Warehouse and Logistics Manager, has been mentoring some of the young people and has witnessed their progress firsthand.
“It has worked really well for us,” he said. “The young people get a lot out of it because they are treated like staff. We support them as much as we can and they are given responsibility. The majority of them do want to stay on at the end of the six months.
“Declan has been an example to others – he’s come a long way in the time he’s been with us and really enjoys his Driver’s Mate role.
“The young people with us have been supporting our van drivers and sorting out stock and serving customers in the Clearance Outlet downstairs. They have been quick learners, have had a positive attitude and have been a massive help.”
For Libby Marshall, 18, from Dukinfield, the role has been eye-opening and empowering.
Libby has been working in our Clearance Outlet
“I wasn’t doing anything so I was looking for a job and this came up. It’s been really nice – the friendly environment and the people I’m working with. I didn’t really know anything about the Hospice before so I’ve learned a lot about it.
“I’ve learned communication skills and just being more confident because before I wasn’t really good at communicating.”
Kaylum Duggan, 19, from Stalybridge, has taken on a Driver’s Mate role since January 2025.
Kaylum is enjoying being a Driver’s Mate
“It’s a nice working environment and very cooperative. I’ve learned to work in a team, being prepared and lots of physical skills like manual handling. I feel like I’ve had a good impact and I’m enjoying it.
“I would definitely recommend the YES scheme to others – it helps you get out of your shell and find opportunities that help you grow as a person.”
Emily Kellett, 23, from Dukinfield, brought with her some previous volunteering experience, but says her time at Willow Wood has taken her skills and confidence to new levels.
“I’ve developed skills like customer service, money management and teamwork. It’s been lovely working with Libby and all of the team – I feel like I fitted in from day one and I’ve made some great friendships. I want to stay working in retail.”
For many of these young people, previous alternative education placements or work environments had not been the right fit. But at Willow Wood, they have found encouragement, responsibility, and a welcoming team.
Neil Radford, who is involved in the YES scheme at Tameside Council, has praised the collaboration.
“Some of our cohort have challenges and have struggled with social anxiety, particularly around peers of their own age,” Neil said.
“Since working at Willow Wood, we’ve seen their confidence and self-esteem grow and have encouraged increased social interactions across different age groups and some will now travel on public transport independently. They are also broadening their social activities by attending gyms, watching films at the cinema and going shopping with peers.
“Additionally, they have gained valuable experience in learning about the world of work and the responsibilities of being an employee. Through their time at Willow Wood, they have developed essential skills such as teamwork, time management, and workplace communication, which have further boosted their independence skills.
“We would especially like to thank Paul King and his team at the Clearance Outlet and Lisa Pye for their support, patience and kindness. Without this, our scheme wouldn’t be the success it is today.”
Anyone interested in taking part in the YES scheme can contact the Employment and Skills team at Tameside Council on 0161 342 3111 or email employmentandskills@tameside.gov.uk
The Willow Wood Hospice Distribution Centre has evolved into a dynamic space, not just for sorting and distributing donations but as a welcoming hub where people can drop off items, browse the Clearance Outlet, and support our hospice through their purchases.
It’s also a key centre for the distribution of furniture, ensuring donations reach the right places efficiently.
Under the leadership of Warehouse and Logistics Manager Paul King, our centre on Langham Street in Ashton-under-Lyne has continually adapted to the ever-changing retail landscape, operating efficiently and effectively to support the success of our shops—including the Clearance Outlet.
Since joining the Hospice in the summer of 2023, Paul has worked tirelessly to implement much-needed structure and organisation in the warehouse.
“When I first started, things were already running well, but there was still room to refine and enhance our processes,” Paul explains. “We have developed robust systems to ensuring everything runs seamlessly,” Paul says. With over 30 amazing volunteers (plus extra helping hands from corporate groups), the team keeps things running smoothly.
A key part of this transformation has been the introduction of the Clearance Outlet, which has added a new dimension to our retail operations.
Since it first opened in October 2024, the shop has seen an increase in donations and growing numbers of repeat customers.
“We’ve had fantastic feedback about the shop being warm, clean and inviting,” says Paul. “We’re seeing more people returning with friends, which means word is spreading.”
Paul with Retail Manager Lynn Ward in the Clearance Outlet
More donations, more opportunities
The increased footfall in the shop has led to a surge in donations. With a clear and structured process in place, our team ensures that all items are assessed, sorted and distributed effectively.
“When someone donates, a team member helps them unload their items and checks what we can accept. We ask if they’re eligible for Gift Aid, and if so, we print labels to attach to their donations,” Paul explains.
“Items are then sent upstairs via the lift for sorting. Some will go to eBay if they are of higher value, others will be allocated to our retail shops, and some will be set aside for the Clearance Outlet.”
To ensure we make the most of every donation, Paul encourages donors to consider the quality of their items before bringing them in.
“We’re incredibly grateful for all donations, and we ask people to think about whether they would happily give the item to a friend or family member. If so, it’s likely a great donation for us. However, if an item is too worn or damaged to be resold, we unfortunately have to use valuable time, money, and effort to dispose of it properly.
“By donating good-quality items, you’re helping us focus our resources where they’re needed most meaning more income from donations going towards patient care, rather than fuelling trips to the tip.”
The Clearance Outlet is currently in need of bric-a-brac, CDs, DVDs and softback books, and the team asks that donations be brought in bags or boxes for easy transportation. Donations can be made between Monday and Saturday from 9am to 3:30pm.
Paul and Van Driver Alan lifting donated furniture
A well-oiled machine
Paul has drawn on his extensive experience in warehouse management to implement key improvements that have made a significant impact.
“In previous roles, I had to manage operations in warehouses with very little space, so I’ve always had to think about how to keep things moving efficiently,” he shared. “At Willow Wood, we had the space, but it needed structure. We’ve reorganised areas, creating a bespoke area for our eBay team, designated areas for seasonal clothing, and even introduced a section for Fashion Show pieces.”
The improvements aren’t just operational, the whole building has been made more appealing for the workforce.
“We’ve painted the warehouse, improved signage and installed new iron gates outside. Compared to 18 months ago, the place is almost unrecognisable – in a good way.”
With a strong team and a well-organised system in place, the Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre has become a crucial part in the success of our retail operations – which Paul puts down to the whole team’s dedication.
“Everyone works together, and our shop managers have been fantastic. They’ve embraced the changes and made my job so much easier. The team is stronger than ever, and we’re always looking for more volunteers to join us.”
Your support in donating goods, buying items and volunteering makes a huge difference. For more information, please get in touch with the team by calling 0161 669 4849.
Willow Wood Hospice is inviting the local community to a Fun Family Open Day at its Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne.
It’s taking place on Saturday 26th April from 10am to 3pm at the Hospice’s shop at Unit 4 on Langham Street, off Oldham Road (postcode OL7 9AX). On-street parking will be available.
The event promises to be a jam-packed day of activities for people of all ages to have fun, grab a bargain and learn more about joining the Hospice’s team of volunteers in its growing retail operations.
For your little ones, there will be face painting, free goodie bags for the first 50 children, and an opportunity to meet Hospice mascot Woody the Bear.
To keep you refreshed, there will be ice cream, cakes and more available to buy. Plus, there will be a raffle and a tombola – with a chance to win some fab prizes!
Paul King, Warehouse and Logistics Manager, said: “Our Clearance Outlet opened in October last year as a ground floor retail space and we have already received lots of fantastic feedback.
“We would love to welcome new customers, so bring along your family and friends to have some Saturday fun, pick up a bargain and support patients from your local community with a life-limiting illness.”
Lisa Pye, Volunteer Services Manager, added: “We’re excited for what promises to be a brilliant day. As well as a chance for families to enjoy some springtime fun, anyone curious about volunteering opportunities at the Hospice and our charity shops will be able to find out lots more information.”
Anyone who would like to find out more about the Fun Family Open Day can email volunteering@willowwood.org.uk or call 0161 330 1100.
To make the most of every donation, Willow Wood Hospice’s charity shops now have a new system for fast and free furniture collection.
It comes as the Hospice’s furniture donation vans have also been given a much-needed makeover.
Having looked a little worse for wear previously, the refreshed fleet have a clear and contemporary new livery with details of the updated donation process.
With the newly revamped vans hitting the road across Tameside and Glossop, the Hospice is rolling out a smoother system for swifter furniture collections.
Previously, donors had to call the Purchase and Donate (PAD) shop in Stalybridge to arrange a pick-up, but the process has now been streamlined to make it more efficient.
Now, anyone looking to donate furniture can contact Paul King, Warehouse and Logistics Manager, and his team directly.
You can take photographs of the item(s) you wish to donate and send them via WhatsApp on 07549 275158 with your name and address including postcode, as well as a description of the item(s).
For those unable to send photographs, you can call 0161 669 4849 to speak to the team to arrange collection.
Our Hospice furniture donation vans were looking a little worse for wear. But fear not, because we’ve given them a much-needed makeover!
Paul said: “It’s essential that we have as much information as possible about the donation because we cannot accept everything and we would hate to waste anybody’s time in turning up to pick up an item that we would be unable to accept – e.g. a sofa without a fire label or furniture that we wouldn’t be able to sell because of wear and tear.”
The new process means the Hospice’s team can make the best use of the space at the Donation Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne, plan collections more effectively, and get donations into shops quicker than ever.
About the new system, Paul added: “It’s all about better stock distribution, smoother sales, and faster collections.
“This new system isn’t just making collections easier—it’s set to boost furniture sales and improve stock across all three shops! The PAD and Waterloo will continue to sell furniture, but without the added pressure of handling logistics, freeing them up to focus on providing the best possible service to our customers.
“Plus, we’ve simplified booking system, so it’s now easier than ever to donate! We introduced a WhatsApp function which is already been a game-changer, letting people send photos and a description of their donation for a quicker response.
“From first contact to collection, the whole process can now be wrapped up in as little as three days, depending on what suits the donor—making it faster, simpler, and more efficient for everyone!”
If you see the new-look vans out and about, tag Willow Wood Hospice on their Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn platforms.
The Hospice, based in Ashton-under-Lyne, provides specialist, compassionate and dignified care to patients from Tameside and Glossop with any life-limiting illness and those closest to them.
We have said a heartfelt farewell to Janet Delaney, who is retiring after an incredible 17 years of dedicated service to Willow Wood Hospice.
Janet has been an integral part of our Retail team, working across multiple shops including Droylsden, Hyde, Stalybridge, Glossop, The PAD and, most recently, our Distribution Centre (now the Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre).
Janet’s favourite role has always been sorting, where her expertise and hard work has made a huge difference to our operations.
When asked what she’ll miss most, Janet – Distribution Centre Assistant – said it will be our amazing volunteers, who have provided her with so much support over the years.
On what was her final working day on Tuesday (10th December), Janet was presented with a card, flowers and a beautiful cake courtesy of her colleagues.
Paul King, our Warehouse and Logistics Manager, shared: “Janet will be missed by so many. We can’t thank her enough for her years of dedication and service.”
We wish Janet all the best in this exciting new chapter of her life and she will always be part of the Willow Wood family.
It’s not just in our charity shops where you can bag yourself a bargain and support patients in our care.
Sales through online platforms raised an incredible £49,550 during the 2023/24 financial year – a record amount.
The Hospice’s eBay site first launched in July 2007 and has since sold over 42,000 items, as well as building up a following of more than 4,000 people.
Based at our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne, our online sales team – made up of staff and volunteers – takes pride in the service they provide, posting out items within a day of them being sold and establishing the Hospice as a top-rated seller on eBay.
The platform’s growth has certainly kept them busy.
“We can list anything from 30 to 50 items per day on average,” said Nicola DePetrillo, Online Sales Assistant.
“We list items sent to us by our shops every week – some can require research, which we use eBay and Google Lens to carry out.
“We sell on average between 100 and 150 items a week. I think the cost of living crisis is one reason why eBay has been so popular – people are looking for a bargain even more nowadays.”
Her colleague Dave Sadler added: “We set our own target of reaching 2,000 active items on the site, which we’ve come close to and have grown from an average of around 600. The more we grow the site, the busier it becomes. Around 80 per cent of what we sell are items listed for a week or less. It’s all about list, list, list for us.”
Our items attract sellers from all corners of the globe, including as recently as July when a Psion Executive PDA Organiser sold for £299 to a buyer in the United States.
“Only around two per cent of our sales are international but it opens up more options,” said Dave. “If we sell furniture or big items like a doll’s house, it will be collection only so we won’t offer postage – that probably happens on one per cent of the items we list.
“If we’re posting items, it’s always eligible to be posted across the world. We only charge our postage for items to get to eBay’s warehouse in Lichfield and eBay will charge extra postage to get it to wherever the buyer is.
“Every item we sell always has the option to be collected from the Distribution Centre to save on packaging costs.”
There have been some gems that have fetched some impressive proceeds for the Hospice including our patron Julie Goodyear’s jewellery range which raised over £16,000, a signed and framed Manchester United shirt which sold for around £2,000, and a stainless steel coffee machine for £180.
All items sold on eBay are generously donated by the local community, who can drop off clothing, books, CDs, DVDs, general bric-a-brac, electronics and ceramics at our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre (based at Unit 4, Langham Street, OL7 9AX) on weekdays from 8am to 3.30pm.
Dave (left) and Nicola from our eBay team
Dave explained: “Around 90 per cent of items we sell are pre-loved – it’s very rare we get something brand new, which is usually clothing with a label or an unopened jigsaw puzzle.
“The most popular item we sell is probably clothing but books also do really well, they are very easy to list and pack. We try to build collections of particular items, like the Now CDs, where space allows so we can then sell them as a set and hopefully they will be worth more.”
Nicola added: “We need things that are in a good, clean sellable condition. If you are thinking of donating items, ask yourself is it in a good enough condition for me to buy it from a charity shop.”
The team closely monitor feedback they receive – of which 99.8 per cent is positive, according to eBay – and have lots of repeat customers.
To help provide an efficient service, they are also environmentally conscious when it comes to packaging items.
“We used donated cardboard boxes so when people bring stuff in a box we ask if we can use it, which also helps for recycling,” Nicola told us. “We also receive a £10 voucher every month from eBay to buy plastic bags to pack items in.”
Dave explained further: “We would gratefully receive donations of shoe boxes or standard square and rectangular boxes to help with packaging, as well as bubble wrap. We also have a company based in Royton who deals with pianos and has shipments over from Japan which come bubble wrapped so he saves all of that for us so we never have to buy it.”
There are other ways that people can support the Hospice through eBay.
People can sign up to Gift Aid, if eligible, when donating items so they can be worth more to Willow Wood at no extra cost to you.
Sellers on eBay can also donate a percentage of their profits to Willow Wood Hospice – by typing the percentage of your choice and selecting Tameside and Glossop Hospice Limited in the drop-down menu.
Our online retail offering extends beyond eBay as our team have diligently explored other ways of generating as much income as possible for the Hospice.
“We sell scrap metal as well as use Vintage Cash Cow which buys old precious metal, jewellery, watches and cameras,” said Dave.
“If we can’t sell them on eBay, we sell DVDs, CDs and books on Ziffit. We send them off once a week and it can raise around £50 a week on average.
“We use Discogs to sell vinyl records. It was set up when vinyl was a bigger thing and we still have lots of items on there but we don’t really list new items on there as you can’t beat eBay for the number of members it has.”
Keep an eye out for news coming soon about how our eBay team were involved in a historic delightful discovery…
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