Would-be charity shop volunteers are being encouraged to step forward and join a record-breaking retail team. East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) has launched its Be the Difference campaign – a fortnight-long drive to recruit more help in its 46 shops. The charity plans to shine a spotlight on existing volunteers by releasing a series of features outlining why they choose to help. At the same time, it also hopes to hear from others interested in joining the team and playing a part in its continued success. EACH supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across East Anglia. “The last financial year saw another 12 months of outstanding achievement,” said EACH Director of Retail and Trading Ian Nicolson. “Almost all our shops achieved record sales and this helped us contribute more to the charity than ever before. “I’ve run out of superlatives to describe our trading success and, in addition to thanking staff, so much of the credit goes to our amazing volunteers. “My gratitude to them has never been more heartfelt and there’s never been a better time to join our winning team. “Volunteers are the lifeblood of what we do – it simply wouldn’t be possible without them – and the money we generate helps our charity continue its vital work. “As we start the new financial year, I have great confidence that the coming year will be another successful one for our wonderful team. “Why not pop into your nearest shop, find out more about becoming a volunteer and help us raise even more money for this fantastic charity?” EACH has 46 shops across Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk and its 47th is due to open in Frinton-on-Sea on 25th May. The charity also has a busy Retail Distribution Centre, in Thetford. EACH’s last Be the Difference campaign was hailed an “outstanding success” after inspiring more than 100 newcomers. That tally consisted of 36 in Norfolk, 26 in North Essex, 20 in Suffolk, 16 in Cambridgeshire and six in EACH’s Royston shop, just across the Hertfordshire border. Hopes are high for similar success this time around. Hannah Milbourne, Volunteer Services and Development Manager, said: “Extra help is always needed and volunteers have an absolutely crucial role to play. “They make such a difference and, quite simply, we wouldn’t be able to run our shops – and therefore go on to provide the care that we do to families – without them. “We’d be very pleased to hear from anyone interested in joining our team and, while we’d obviously love people to offer a regular slot, just a morning or afternoon makes the world of difference. “We have shops across the region, in the heart of the community, and there are various roles available, from serving customers to sorting and organising donations and listing eBay items. “The hours are completely flexible, to fit in with busy lives, and a friendly welcome is assured. “We’d also love to hear from anyone interested in helping out, even if it’s just a short-term arrangement like students being home on their university holiday.” EACH relies on voluntary donations for the majority of its income and, this year alone, just from its retail operation, it needs to raise £6.5 million. For more information, speak to a member of staff in-store or contact volunteer services on 01223 205183. Alternatively, email [email protected] A full list of the shop locations can be found here. There are other ways to support EACH, including helping its facilities, events, fundraising and administration teams, or being part of the charity’s Help at Home service.