Meet George, the Shop Manager, and Sebastian, the Assistant Shop Manager, from Fulham about what it's like working for Royal Trinity Hospice shops.

George, Fulham Shop Manager

How long have you been the Manager of the Fulham shop? What were you doing before?

I’ve been at the Fulham shop for just over 4 years, and before that I worked for a smaller charity, but for 30 years I worked in film and cinema. I helped open the first not-for-profit cinema in the UK.

What is your favourite thing about working for Royal Trinity Hospice Shops?

Our mission; to be London’s answer to sustainable fashion. We’re trying to persuade young people, and successive generations to think differently about how they shop. It’s hugely worthwhile for them and the planet. Not only do we persuade people to change their shopping habits, people can find their individual style in a charity shop. They can come here and curate individual bits and pieces that suit their personality. The interesting thing about Royal Trinity Hospice is that we give people that edge.

What do you think makes your shop unique?

Definitely the people. The customers like coming here because our shop is a little different. And we who work here are all quirky, we’re like a family. I’ve got Mary, who was the very first volunteer to walk through the doors 22 years ago. Patricia (volunteer), has been here for 19 years. I have other volunteers who range from 85 down to 17. We all have a great laugh. And I have a superb management team. All my managers have different strengths, and they all complement each other. People ask if it’s hard work. If you’re doing something that you love, you’ll never work a day in your life. And it’s almost like that here, because we do have such a good time.

Have you had any unusual items donated recently?

Constantly! Sebastian worked in Drama, so he brings a slice of theatre to the visual merchandising. People bring all sorts of stuff to us. We got a Wedgewood plaque in the other day, worth about £1000. Inevitably someone will buy it. We get some really interesting paintings and photographs. We just sold a vintage hand-made red Valentino skirt and jacket set, probably from the late 60s.

Can you tell me a bit more about your volunteer team?

I’m incredibly lucky to have them. I suppose it’s a great testament to the shop and how we are with each other that they’re still here. During lockdown they were all looking after each other. Some were going to fetch shopping for older ones. I have three volunteers who are seamstresses who come in and repair garments so we can sell them on. A lot of them have a connection with the hospice and really care about what they’re doing. We really are a shop for local people.

What are your interests outside of work?

I’m passionate about film, I’ve got a huge collection of classic Hollywood memorabilia, and I love Art Deco. I’ve been collecting Art Deco since I was 12, and I’m 61. Other than that, I’ve got a huge garden, which I started to restore during lockdown. I love to go home and have that space to unwind.

Sebastian, Fulham Assistant Manager

How long have you been an Assistant Manager at the Fulham shop? What were you doing before?

I’ve been here in Fulham probably 2-3 months. Before my role here, I was working in luxury retail in Australia, in Brisbane. I ran a boutique across two locations, which specialised in designer eyewear, jewellery, apparel, mainly for women.

What’s your favourite thing about working for Royal Trinity Hospice Shops?

I think it’s the customers, because they really enjoy seeing what we have each week. It’s rewarding to see them so happy to find something special for themselves knowing they’re making a difference.

Which role do you enjoy the most, e.g. sorting, being on till, visual merchandising?

Anyone will tell you, working in charity retail, no two days are the same, and every day is varied. For me, I get a lot of enjoyment from how the stock is presented, and how the store looks and feels. I want to take the customer on a journey with all the bits and pieces. It’s all about the power of suggestion.

What would be your dream item to pull out of a donation bag?

A really special pair of men’s leather brogues. I am a bit of a shoe fanatic.

What are your interests outside of work?

Outside of work, I do like to see how other sections of the retail market are doing their merchandising. I love shopping and looking for a bargain. I also have a little Chihuahua called Jonathan. I brought him all the way from all Australia. My mum bought him off eBay!

Thank you to George and Sebastian, and the rest of the Fulham team!