Call for volunteers - EACH Woodbridge

News Release                                    

Monday, 19th October 2026

“I feel strongly about the organisation and everything it stands for, and it’s a pleasure to play a small part in supporting its work” - Claire is urging others to consider volunteering for EACH in Woodbridge

A valued volunteer who has devoted eight years to supporting East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) is leading a recruitment drive to attract more helpers to the charity’s Woodbridge shop.

The Hamblin Road shop is in urgent need of extra volunteers, and a special fortnight-long recruitment campaign gets underway today.

Claire Beeson says meeting customers, being part of a team and doing something that brings real purpose and satisfaction are among the reasons she would recommend to anyone.

“I absolutely love volunteering for EACH,” said the retired sales and marketing professional, who first got involved after her daughter helped in one of its shops as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Award.

“I feel strongly about the organisation and everything it stands for, and it’s a pleasure to play a small part in supporting its work.

“I’ve always been passionate about the vital role hospices play.

“Having lost both of my parents in recent years, I’ve got so much appreciation for the incredible work adult hospices do and feel equally passionate about organisations supporting children and families.

“I can’t bear the thought of what some people go through, and that’s why giving my time and doing what I can feels so worthwhile.

“When you’ve experienced loss yourself, it gives you an even greater sense of purpose. It’s important to make a difference where you can, and volunteering allows me to do exactly that.”

Claire says one of the biggest misconceptions is that people need specific skills or experience.

“I’m a bit of a jack of all trades and will happily try my hand at anything,” said the 59-year-old, who lives in Ipswich.

“That’s the beauty of volunteering in an EACH shop. There really is something for everyone.

“Some people love serving customers on the till, while others prefer working behind the scenes sorting donations. I enjoy the variety and also love creative projects, whether it’s dressing a window, creating a themed display or, most recently, painting poppies for a Remembrance Sunday display.”

Claire also enjoys meeting customers, working alongside fellow volunteers and helping donated items find new homes.

“I’m passionate about recycling and sustainability, which is another reason I love the shops,” she said.

“I think we’ve become a bit of a throwaway society, and I love the idea of giving pre-loved items a second life.

“People are incredibly generous with their donations, and it’s our job to make sure we generate the best possible value for EACH.

“Donors know their treasured items are going to a good home, customers can find something special at an affordable price and, most importantly, we’re raising vital funds for children and families.

“It’s a win-win situation, and I’m also very driven when it comes to achieving things and meeting targets, which is probably a trait that harks back to my career in sales.”

Claire, who worked for pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), originally volunteered as an eBay assistant at EACH’s shop in Felixstowe Road, Ipswich.

Now she volunteers at EACH’s Woodbridge shop, where she has been reunited with manager Nicola Emerick, a former colleague from their time working together in Ipswich.

“It gives me a huge amount of satisfaction,” she said.

“It’s a great confidence-builder, keeps me active and has introduced me to some wonderful people.

“It’s a fantastic network to be part of. Everyone is friendly, supportive and works together as a team.

“We always need more volunteers because there’s always plenty to do, but it’s also fun, rewarding and flexible. Even if someone can spare just an hour or two, it genuinely makes a difference.

“My advice would be simple - give it a try. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy it and how much you get back from the experience.”

To find out more about volunteering in Woodbridge, pop in for a chat or call 01394 337271. Alternatively, click here or head to the volunteering section on EACH’s website.