We spoke to Madeleine to find out why she volunteers with Trinity and her favourite things about the role:

Why did you start volunteering with Trinity?

I started off as a customer at the Hammersmith shop and then went on to become a volunteer. I never knew what treasures I might find and it was a fun place to shop. I was looking for a volunteer role that played to my strengths. I like vintage fashion, I enjoy clothes and dressing people up, so volunteering in the shop was a perfect fit.

Can you explain a bit about what you do in your volunteer role?

I do a little bit of everything, from sorting and steaming to dressing the windows. I had never done this before and it has been a huge treat to bring a splash of much needed colour and style to our local high street. In my professional life I make jewellery, so I asked the shop team to save any broken or unsalable bits which I could then re-fashion into new pieces. I love this form of up-cycling. It's good for the planet, good for the shop and has given me fresh inspiration for my own making.

 

What do you enjoy the most about your role?

I love clothes and colour, and I also enjoy meeting customers and helping them find the things they need or that simply give them pleasure. I have always felt that shopping should be an adventure, the trill of the hunt and the joy of finding, hopefully without breaking the bank! I also believe that shopping in charity shops makes you a better shopper. You look, you learn, you experiment. You buy things because you like them and they suit you, not just because they represent this season's pre-selected fashion trends that might not suit you at all. The Hammersmith shop has a lovely atmosphere, and I have noticed how many customers return week after week. They enjoy visiting the shop, chatting with the staff, and finding a little fashion treat. It's a great place to volunteer.

 

What would you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering with Trinity?

Do it! I am surprised how much I enjoy volunteering. I have learnt a lot, met some lovely people, and have come up with some new ideas. And at the end of the day, what could be more fun than playing with clothes for a good cause?

Find all our volunteering roles