Tom Kirkham, a familiar face on Bangor High Street, has turned his decade-long volunteering stint at the Hope House Tŷ Gobaith charity shop into paid employment. The 32-year-old from Menai Bridge now works one day a week as a paid staff member at the shop, and this success helped him secure additional retail work for four days a week elsewhere.
From Volunteer to Paid Employee
Kirkham originally started volunteering through the Job Centre after leaving college. He said: “I came to visit, and the rest is history. I’ve learned a lot of valuable skills like cash handling, merchandising and customer service and it definitely helped me in finding paid retail work.” He praised the supportive environment, stating: “Volunteering here really gives me something to look forward to. You can always rely on colleagues to keep you positive.”
Skills and Impact
Over the years, Kirkham has developed a keen eye for valuable donations. He recalled: “I once spotted a dollhouse that came in as a donation and researched it. It was worth around £1,000 and we managed to sell it at £300 for the charity.” He added that the shop frequently receives expensive dresses and valuable Portmeirion pottery. The money raised at the High Street shop directly supports seriously ill local children.
Volunteer Recognition
Mark Hunt-Gittins from Hope House said: “All our volunteers like Tom, are priceless. They help us manage the flow of stock, present the store beautifully and always give a friendly welcome to our amazing customers.” He urged more young people to consider volunteering to learn employment skills, build their CVs, and make friends.
About Hope House Tŷ Gobaith
Hope House Tŷ Gobaith provides respite stays, nursing care, physiotherapy, and emotional support to over 750 children in North Wales and Shropshire who are living with life-threatening conditions. The charity relies on volunteers like Tom to keep its shops running and raise essential funds.
How to Get Involved
Those interested in volunteering can visit the shop at 306 High Street, Bangor, or call 01248 355644 to learn about available roles. More information is also available on the charity’s website.
