A Chippenham charity shop was ‘taken over’ by the younger generation at the weekend. The Barnardo’s store in Pewsham hosted a visit from local children and young people with additional needs who are supported by the charity’s local youth clubs. Two teams, from A Place 4 Us in Calne and the Phoenix Youth Club in Chippenham, helped with sorting the stock and serving the customers on Saturday morning. The aim of the event was to boost their self-confidence and self-esteem while providing valuable work experience.
Barnardo’s co-ordinator Harry Fowler said: “We provide activities throughout the area to support young people with additional needs, helping them to achieve their potential. “Many find it difficult to access education or work, and may experience social isolation, so we wanted to arrange an event which would help them to develop new skills and boost their confidence. “We had two teams of four, aged from 13 to 21 years old, who had a go at all sorts of tasks associated with running a modern charity shop. “They helped with sorting donations, arranging displays, steaming clothes and serving at the till, and were warmly received by customers – one said they were ‘fantastic sales assistants’! “All of the young people thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and several now hope to return as regular volunteers.”
The youth clubs are for young people with additional needs, with an age range of 13-18 years old for Chippenham and 13-25 years old for Calne. Activities include bowling, DVD and games nights, sports sessions and arts and crafts. Call (01249) 463907 for further information on how to join.
The Barnardo’s store is open Monday-Saturday from 9am-5pm and on Sundays from 10am-4pm. It welcomes donations of good-quality clothes, books, toys, games, accessories and bric-a-brac, as well as offers of help from potential volunteers. Call (01249) 445524.