Pru Kirby – Retail volunteer

‘A friend of mine and her husband received help from the Blythe House Hospice and that was when I decided to get involved and give my support.’

Pru Kirby, aged 76 from Bakewell, saw first-hand the compassionate care provided by Blythe House Hospice as her friend, and her friend’s husband received care and support at such a difficult time. This encouraged Pru to become a volunteer as she wanted to give something back.

She wanted to thank the charity for their valuable support they gave to her friends in any way she could, so Pru decided to help raise funds by volunteering in the shops, so the amazing team at Blythe House Hospice can continue providing the vital services and support to patient’s affected by life-limiting illnesses.

‘I started by volunteering for the fundraising team, supporting them with community stalls, and at their annual Chatsworth 10k, things like that, it’s so much fun supporting the fundraising team’ explained Pru. ‘When Blythe House Hospice opened the Bakewell shop, I decided to come and help, and I really enjoy it.’

The Blythe House Hospice shop, on Matlock Street, is a regular stop off for many of the locals and visitors alike, giving their support by shopping at the store, picking up a bargain and helping raise funds. ‘How busy we are changes day by day, but there is always a good footfall. Monday’s especially can be very busy as we get a lot of coach trips.

‘We have some residents who like to come in very regularly to have a wander round to see what new items we have and have a bit of chat, which is always so lovely. I enjoy meeting all sorts of different people, and they are always very friendly. If you are thinking of doing something with your time, something you would like to get involved in, or just to give back to your local hospice, why not give it a go?’

‘I love being a part of a team of wonderful volunteers, everyone has always been so welcoming, and I would highly recommend to others! I just like doing it. It is nice working in the shop there is a real community spirit. It is a nice environment to be in. All the customers are just wonderful.’

Before retiring Pru worked in local schools as a learning support assistant. Originally from Dorset, she moved to Manchester and then Buxton before moving to Bakewell as she wanted her four sons to attend Lady Manners School. Now nearly 40 years later Pru as well as one of her sons and his family still live in the town.