Having always worked in mainstream retail I didn’t know too much about preloved items.  So, when I saw the advert to be an Acorns shop manager it grabbed my interest.

I knew of the amazing things they did so I applied for the job as I wanted to work somewhere where I could contribute in my own way.

I’ve been here ever since and that was nine years ago!

I love working here. Knowing that our hard work in the shop, sorting stock and selling goods is actually helping children and families on our doorstep, is very satisfying.

As the shop manager, I support some amazing volunteers who make the shop look presentable for the customers who walk in. We like to see people get excited by the things we’ve put out.

Since working in the shop, I have learnt that preloved items are just as good as new ones, if not better.

Preloved doesn’t mean lower quality just because the price is lower.

We carefully check everything and have such a large range of items. Customers often come in to find that one item they’ve been looking for and there it is on our shelf.

During the day I like to think that we are making a difference. We are helping customers get quality items at a lower price. We are stopping clothing going to landfill which helps the environment. And we are supporting the children at Acorns with the money we raise.

I recommend shopping preloved to everyone. You never know what you might find, and you can shop knowing that the money you’ve spent is helping others.

Make sure you pop into your local Acorns shop. I might even see you there!