Despite having an incredibly busy family life, Christine also volunteers for two days a week at our Chingford shop.

Christine spent several years caring for her dad before he sadly passed away. Wanting to keep herself occupied and improve her skills, she noticed a poster in our shop window and immediately offered her services.

She says: ‘I love meeting new people and I do enjoy chatting to the customers; no two days are ever the same. I help with all areas of running the shop - from the till, sorting donations or admin work on spreadsheets. If you’re looking for a way to build your confidence, help in your community and get back into work it’s a good way to do this.

The team has been so helpful and what’s stood out to me the most since I began volunteering is the kindness of people every day. When they bring in donations they obviously care about the work of the hospice. It is also the cause that inspires me; it’s such an important charity to so many local families who have children with life-limiting conditions.

Haven House is opening a new shop in Leytonstone in May. If you have been inspired by Christine’s story please get in touch. To find out more please contact either Sandra Giordani or Lisa Rogers on 020 8505 9944 or email [email protected].