Volunteers needed as Barnardo’s opens biggest London store in Hounslow

Community-minded Hounslow residents are urged to step forward to help staff a new Barnardo’s store that is the children’s charity’s largest in London.

Eager shoppers queued to browse the extensive racks of quality fashion, jewellery, accessories, gifts, children’s clothes, toys, DVDs and bric-a-brac after the 3,000 square foot shop was opened by the Mayor of Hounslow, Cllr Sue Sampson, at the Blenheim Centre on Thursday, February 22.

It is the biggest of the 37 Barnardo’s shops in London and the third to launch in the borough alongside smaller branches in Turnham Green Terrace, Chiswick, and Staines Road, Bedfont. All profits raised there will help to support the charity’s work with vulnerable children, young people and families throughout the UK.

Volunteers of all ages are needed and people can choose to give as much time as they can spare, from as little as two hours each week. Barnardo’s retail volunteers have the opportunity to learn customer service skills, operate the till, manage stock and create stylish window displays. Many of those who give their time enjoy how the role enables them to meet new people, build confidence and develop team-working and problem-solving abilities.

Cllr Sue Sampson, the Mayor of Hounslow, said: “I’m pleased to declare the new Barnardo’s store open. It looks fantastic and everything that’s on sale could be brand new. I’m impressed that the store is able to claim Gift Aid from the Government on donations and I’d encourage people to think about volunteering, as it’s a really worthwhile cause.”

Barnardo’s Area Business Manager Sian Jones said: “We’re really proud of our huge new store in the heart of Hounslow and we hope shoppers will come and visit us at the Blenheim Centre to have a look at all the fantastic clothes and goods we have on offer.

“Volunteers are a vital part of our operation so if you’re interested in finding out what volunteering might have to offer you, please drop into the store and have a chat with the team. The work you can do in store can be really rewarding in itself, and it has a real impact on the lives of the most vulnerable children, young people and families in the UK.”

The new store’s address is Unit 3, the Blenheim Centre, Prince Regent Road, Hounslow, TW3 1NL. It is open 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.