Tag: Retail

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The scheme helping young people thrive at Willow Wood

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
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 Marshall in the Clearance Outlet
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 Duggan
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.”

To find out more about volunteering at Willow Wood Hospice, visit willowwood.org.uk/vacancies/volunteer-vacancies

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

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Hospice teams up with theatre behind the scenes

We’ve loved working with Guide Bridge Theatre on their recent production of The Odd Couple.

Our Retail team has been speaking with Vicky from the theatre’s volunteer coordinators team since November to help supply props for their performances – including a table, chairs, and a glass cabinet pictured from the latest show.

By renting selected items from our shops at a much-lower cost than specialist prop hire companies, the Audenshaw theatre saves money and storage space, as well as accessing unique, period-appropriate pieces.

Once the show ends, we simply collect the items and return them to our shops, ready to be sold.

It’s a collaborative way to support a brilliant local theatre, promote sustainability, and raise vital funds for the Hospice.

We’re looking forward to seeing this little project develop!

“This partnership is a win-win,” Vicky said. “We often need unique items to help bring our stories to life on stage — from vintage armchairs to quirky lamps. Being able to source these from Willow Wood Hospice means we can do so affordably, while also contributing to an incredibly worthwhile cause.”

Paul King, our Warehouse and Logistics Manager, added:  “We’re thrilled to be working with Guide Bridge Theatre. It’s wonderful to see our donated goods taking on a second life on stage, helping to tell meaningful stories and entertain local audiences, all while raising funds for hospice care. It’s a beautiful example of community collaboration in action.”

The next Guide Bridge Theatre production is Agatha Christie’s A Murder Is Announced, which opens on Monday, July 28, and organisers hint that several pieces sourced through the new initiative will feature prominently.

Pictured is a scene from The Odd Couple production and our furniture collection van parked outside the theatre.

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Students turn style into support for Willow Wood

The cafeteria at Clarendon Sixth Form College was recently transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and compassion, as first-year Level 3 Fashion and Textiles students hosted their very own Fashion Show and Sample Sale — all in support of Willow Wood Hospice.

From concept to catwalk, the entire event was organised, styled and modelled by the talented students themselves. Their passion and professionalism shone through every outfit and every detail.

Held on Friday 6th June, the event was open to all students and staff at the college based in Ashton-under-Lyne town centre.

The afternoon concluded with a PrettyLittleThing sample sale featuring one-of-a-kind pieces — raising over £575 in just one hour!

Our Head of Retail Pauline Lunt, Director of Fundraising and Communications Sam Duncan, Glossop shop manager Caroline Lillis, and Stalybridge shop manager Julie Wilson were all proud to attend and show their support.

Pauline said: “It was absolutely fantastic to see the creativity and energy the students brought to the event. The amount they raised in such a short time is truly impressive, and we’re so grateful for their support. A huge thank you to all the students and staff for choosing to support patient care at Willow Wood – we’re incredibly touched.”

The students had such a fantastic time that they’re already thinking about doing it again — so watch this space for more fashion and fundraising in the future!

Olivia Kitchen, fashion and textiles student at Clarendon Sixth Form College, said: “The event was amazing and it was great to raise so much money. I found the event gave me an insight into the industry and how fast paced it can be. It was a thrill to be modelling and working backstage and it helped me to realise this is the side of the industry I would like to go into. Considering we only had a few days to plan this event between us, I feel like we pulled it off fabulously. This project has tested our time management skills and allowed us to work as a group.”

Ryan Boulton, fashion and textiles teacher at Clarendon Sixth Form College, said: “I’m incredibly proud of the students for what they achieved with this project. They took full ownership of the task and their creativity, professionalism and teamwork really shone through. Not only did they raise a fantastic amount for a brilliant local cause, which many people in Tameside feel a connection to, but they also gained real world experience that will benefit them hugely as they move forward in their careers.”

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The success of our Purchase and Donate shop in Stalybridge

For over 10 years, the Purchase and Donate (PAD) shop in Stalybridge has been a cornerstone of the community, offering a unique shopping experience while raising vital funds for Willow Wood Hospice.

Specialising in children’s toys and clothing, bric-a-brac, and furniture, last year this bustling shop generated around 30 per cent of our shops’ total annual income – which directly supports patients from Tameside and Glossop with life-limiting illnesses in our care.

A team that makes it happen

The PAD is a thriving operation, thanks to a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to keep things running smoothly.

Manager Michelle Baxter is proud of the shop’s impact and the commitment of those who support it.

“We are grateful to have a wonderful team who work incredibly hard,” Michelle shares. “We’re lucky to receive fabulous, high-quality donations, and we have a wide range of customers who support us. Knowing that we make a significant contribution to the care of patients at the Hospice makes it all worthwhile.”

Michelle Baxter
Michelle Baxter

 

A treasure trove of items

The PAD shop offers something for everyone. On the ground floor, customers can browse a selection of furniture – including sofas, beds, kitchen tables, coffee tables and mirrors – as well as books, picture frames and even jigsaw puzzles.

The dedicated bric-a-brac section is a treasure trove of unique and quirky finds—perfect for those who love discovering hidden gems.

The bric-a-brac section is a treasure trove waiting for you to discover

Upstairs, the children’s section has seen exciting developments. Since the café closed, Viv Frattaroli and her team have expanded the space to offer even more for families.

“We wanted to make the most of the space and create a welcoming environment for children and their parents,” says Viv. “Now, we have an even wider range of children’s items, from teddies and toys to clothes and prams. It’s fantastic to see families coming in and finding great-quality items at affordable prices.”

Viv Frattaroli
Viv Frattaroli

Pay the PAD a visit

The PAD shop wouldn’t be the success it is without the generosity of donors and customers, and every purchase made directly helps us provide essential care to those who need it most.

If you’re looking for quality pre-loved furniture, you’ll still find a fantastic selection at the PAD.

Some of the furniture available at The PAD

We now a smoother system in place to collect your furniture donations – visit www.willowwood.org.uk/furniture-collection to find out more.

Whether you’re hunting for a bargain, donating items or simply browsing, the PAD shop is a special place where the community comes together to make a difference. Thank you for your continued support!

You will find the PAD at 13/15 Shepley Street (postcode SK15 2AH) and it’s open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm.

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How our Distribution Centre became a thriving Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre

Paul King at the Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne

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 and Lynn in the Clearance Outlet
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 Alan lifting furniture in the Clearance Outlet
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.

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Fashion Show proves popular again

Willow Wood Hospice’s fifth Fashion Show was a night to remember, bringing together glamour, generosity and community spirit.

Held for the second time at The Lock on Castle Street in Stalybridge, the stylish venue welcomed 130 people on Friday 9th May.

The evening sparkled from start to finish, raising a fantastic £3,000 in support of patient care at the Hospice.

Guests enjoyed a glass of fizz on arrival before settling in to watch the runway show, featuring our fabulous volunteer models showcasing summer collections.

After the show, the downstairs was transformed into a boutique-style pop-up shop, full of stylish clothes, shoes and accessories – all at a fraction of retail prices.

There was hot and cold food, plus a wide range of drinks from the bar, to keep everyone refreshed throughout the evening.

Guests could also enter a raffle, with some fantastic prizes on offer.

Pauline Lunt, Head of Retail at Willow Wood Hospice, said: “We’re so grateful to everyone who came along and made it a fantastic night.

“Huge thanks to Wendy and the team at The Lock for their incredible support and kind donation, to the students from the fashion department at Tameside College for all of their help, to our wonderful models, and to our amazing retail teams whom we couldn’t do it without.

“Our five Fashion Shows combined have raised £16,000, which has really made a difference to patients with a life-limiting illness in our care.”

Our Fashion Show will return on Friday 7th November – keep your eyes peeled for more details!

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Double recognition at Tameside Business Awards

We’re thrilled to share that Willow Wood Hospice won the Retailer of the Year award and received a Special Commendation for Care in the Outstanding Contribution to Tameside category at the Tameside Business Awards.

The awards ceremony took place on Wednesday night at The Village Hotel in Ashton-under-Lyne.

We were represented by our CEO Tracy Minshull, Chairman Timothy Jackson, Clinical Director Nicola Cheetham, Director of Fundraising & Communications Sam Duncan, Head of Retail Pauline Lunt, and Partnership Development Lead Joanne Lees.

These honours are a testament to the dedication, compassion and relentless hard work of our incredible workforce – which is all of our staff and volunteers.

We have also been shortlisted in the Social Enterprise / CIC / Charity of the Year category at this year’s Pride of Tameside Business Awards.

We will find out if we have been successful on Friday 13th June at Dukinfield Town Hall – fingers crossed!

Pictured: CEO Tracy Minshull and Clinical Director Nicola Cheetham (left) with our Special Commendation for Care and Director of Fundraising and Communications Sam Duncan and Head of Retail Pauline Lunt with our Retailer of the Year award.

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Waterloo shop bounces back and looks good as new

They say lightning never strikes twice, but unfortunately for our Waterloo shop in Ashton-under-Lyne, wayward wheels certainly did!

After not one, but two car park prangs left the front window and side of the shop looking a little worse for wear, we were forced to close off parts of the store while repairs took place.

But after a spell of scaffolding, sawdust, and sheer determination, we’re thrilled to say: we’re back to full capacity!

A huge thank you goes to our incredible staff and volunteers, who took it all in their stride, keeping spirits high and business ticking over even with half the shop out of action.

Their patience and perseverance have been nothing short of inspiring.

It’s business as usual at our Waterloo shop!

We also send out a huge THANK YOU to our loyal customers who supported us when our floor-space was significantly reduced, ensuring the community continued to raise vital funds for hospice care.

And, of course, a massive shoutout to the brilliant builders who worked their magic to restore our shop to its former glory – good as new and sturdier than ever!

Now, with the repairs complete and the shop fully open once more, there’s never been a better time to pop in, browse the bargains, and bag yourself a gem. Whether you’re after a thrifty find or just fancy a natter with our friendly team, we’d love to see you!

So, here’s to smooth parking, solid walls, and a shop that’s standing strong – the Waterloo shop is well and truly back in business!

The shop is based at 357 Oldham Road (postcode OL7 9NE) and is open Mondays to Saturdays from 9am to 4pm.

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The PAD’s adoption initiative to give a teddy a new home

A trip to our Purchase and Donate (PAD) shop in Stalybridge has just got even more special, thanks to a creative new initiative in the children’s section.

Customers now have the chance to ‘adopt’ a teddy bear, complete with its own name and an adoption certificate—just like Paddington!

The idea came from young volunteer Jay Kettlewell (pictured), who wanted to add a fun and meaningful touch to the shop’s pre-loved teddies.

Jay, 24, from Stalybridge, has been volunteering since December 2024, helping out up to three days a week. Her mum, Anita, also volunteers in the children’s section, making this a wonderful family effort.

“I work at conventions selling my art, and one of my projects is ‘Adopt a Ghost,’ where I make resin ghost items,” Jay explained.

“We always have lots of teddy bears donated to the shop, so I thought, why not bring this idea here? It gives the bears a bit of personality and makes it a more special experience for customers.”

You can ‘adopt’ a teddy bear at the back of the upstairs floor at The PAD

Jay made the adoption certificates herself and worked with Viv and the team to set up the display at the back of the floor, which officially launched on 24th March.

Each teddy now has its own unique name and, for those that don’t come pre-dressed, the team has lovingly added clothes to make them extra special.

“As long as we keep getting bears in, we’ll keep doing it,” Jay said. “We thought it would be a lovely thing for children, but of course, anyone can adopt a teddy!”

With a variety of teddies available in different sizes and prices, now is the perfect time to come along, find your new furry friend, and give them a loving home.

Pop upstairs when you’re next in the PAD shop to take a look—you might just find the perfect bear waiting for you!

To keep the initiative going, Jay and the team would really appreciate any donations of teddy bears.

You can find The PAD at 13/15 Shepley Street in Stalybridge (postcode SK15 2AH). It’s open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm.