Story: John Mellor | Photos: Richard Hanson
After a year of planning “Rainbow’s End” community charity shop, based on the ground floor of Sorby House on Spital Hill, opened its doors to the public on 6th December 2008. The official opening ceremony (conducted by a “Mickey Mouse” look-alike) was a very happy occasion which attracted a large crowd from all sections of the community.
Since its opening the shop has experienced steady trading. Yvonne Hayes, volunteer co-ordinator, said “We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of everyone who has donated a wide variety of excellent quality goods, including clothing of all types and sizes, crockery, toys, bicycles, books, videos, instruments and bric-a-brac. There is a good turnover of stock so if we don’t have what you want on a particular day it’s always worth coming back later.”
A unique feature of the new shop is the soft seating area where customers and volunteers can sit down in comfort to enjoy a chat. The only problem is that several customers have asked if the sofa and easy chairs are for sale! However, other items of furniture can be sold and collection can be arranged where necessary.
Customers have commented that Burngreave has long needed a shop of this kind and that it is already proving its value for the local community. It is open six days a week and staffing is provided by a team of nearly 20 volunteers who each give a few hours of their time on a regular basis.
All the volunteers I spoke to are really enjoying the experience and value the new skills they are learning. Training and induction sessions are provided for volunteers so that previous experience is not needed – just a willingness to learn.
If you are interested in volunteering (even for just an hour or so per week) contact Yvonne Hayes on 07954 149 297.
To donate goods, contact Janet or Morag on 243 3137
