‘I’d love to see more people my age, and younger people too, getting involved. It’s a great way to meet people, become part of your local community and know that you’re helping to make a difference.’
When Matthew moved to the High Peak from Watford, he wanted to embrace a new chapter and become more involved in his local community. After hearing about the difference Blythe House Hospice makes through its charity shops, he decided to volunteer at the Chapel-en-le-Frith shop — discovering not only a rewarding way to give something back, but also a welcoming community of staff, volunteers and customers.
Matthew said: ‘Moving to the area in early 2026 felt like a fresh start for me. I thought: “I’m going to do things differently” – I wanted to make more time for myself, get involved in activities locally, and find a way to volunteer.
‘When we first moved, I had some issues with our broadband, so I couldn’t work from home. I started working from a co-working space in Whaley Bridge, and whilst I was there, I met a lady who told me all about the Blythe House Hospice charity. She had previously been supported by Blythe House and explained how much the hospice had helped her. She still meets up with the group of people she was here with, which really showed me the lasting impact of the support people receive.
‘Hearing her story made me think more about Blythe House and what it means to people locally, and I decided to apply to become a volunteer. Blythe House is really well-known in the area, but volunteering has given me a much better understanding of everything the hospice does.
‘One of the things I really enjoy is getting to know people in the local community. You get a real feel for the people who come into the shop, whether they’re regular customers who pop in for a chat, or people who are having a look around. The team is brilliant – they know their regulars and their stories, and there’s a real community feel.
‘I experienced that myself too. We had a settee we wanted to donate and needed help collecting it. I went into the Whaley Bridge shop, and everyone was so friendly and helpful.
‘That feel-good factor of giving something back is a big part of why I enjoy volunteering. Having moved somewhere new, I wanted to get involved in the community and feel like I was contributing. Volunteering at the shop has given me that opportunity.
‘I’ve met some lovely people through volunteering, including some fantastic ladies who also give their time at the shop. There’s a real sense of friendship and everyone is there for the same reason; to support Blythe House and the people who rely on its services.
‘I enjoy the practical side of volunteering, like sorting through donations in the back and helping decide what’s good enough to sell. I’ve been shown how to price items, hang clothes properly and display things so they look their best. It’s been interesting to learn something new.
‘It’s a really cool thing to do. I’d love to see more people my age, and younger people too, getting involved. It’s a great way to meet people, become part of your local community and know that you’re helping to make a difference.’
Find out more about volunteering opportunities at Blythe House Hospice
