Jan Palmer has been volunteering for Crest Co-operative for the last three months but did also volunteer a few years ago too! Jan helps our support workers support our WorkOpps team – clients with learning difficulties and disabilities. She also helps sort out the textiles and clothing donations by our customers! Here’s what she had to say about her time at Crest Co-operative!
Thanks for taking a moment of your time to speak with us and for all your help volunteering. How long have you volunteered at Crest Co-operative?
Jan: I’ve been here since July, but I did also volunteer five years ago.
What’s the best thing about volunteering at Crest?
Jan: It’s just good work ethics, everyone works hard and we get things done. It’s actually very good exercise – I’ve lost weight!
Can you describe yourself in three words?
Jan: Enthusiastic, flexible… and “go-to” attitude! (Editor: Not quite three words but we’ll take it!)
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Jan: I love walking, reading, going abroad. I also have a house abroad. I love coming back to the UK because of the seasons here. I love walking around Conwy and in other parts of North Wales. We’re very lucky to live here with the scenery.
Do you have a favourite member of staff and/or volunteer that you like to work with?
Jan: I love working with Angela, Lowri and Beccy. We’re a good little team and we gel really well. I do also love our WorkOpps team, who come in on different days. I must say I love Robbie, he’s such a joy!
Any funny stories inside or outside of Crest that you want to mention?
Jan: One of our WorkOpps team overheard the staff talking about my age… and heard particularly the word “old”. She came up to me afterwards and said “You’re old!”, and got me a chair to sit down on and a walking stick! Everyone in the canteen was laughing! She looks after me so it was lovely.
Last question, why do you volunteer?
Jan: I have the free time and I want to give back. I’ve worked in charity shops and similar places but I come back to Crest because no day is the same. Everyone gets stuck in and integrates well. It’s different from what Crest was like five years ago, but in a good way and I really enjoy working with everyone.
Thanks for reading, and join us next time for another Volunteer Q&A!