Steve Evans

Volunteer Shop Assistant

Steve volunteers in the Dame Hannahs shop in Estover, having started volunteering for Dame Hannahs in 2021. He came across the Dame Hannahs shop in Transit Way as it is his local shopping area and went in to enquire if volunteers were needed.

“I decided to volunteer as I am retired and felt it would be nice to give something back. Before retiring and moving to Devon I worked for many years as an inspector at the Steelworks in Wales. My first volunteer role was sorting through donations in the Transit Way warehouse. When Dame Hannahs had to close their operation in Transit Way I moved to the Estover shop, which was a big change as I am now part of a much smaller team. However I really enjoy my volunteering as I love the people, both building relationships with staff and meeting members of the public.

My main responsibilities are sorting through donations which involves inspection, sizing, steaming and labelling. Sometimes I work on the till, supporting customers with purchases. This enables me to answer any questions they may have and generally engage in conversation when required. More recently I have been asked to mentor new volunteers in order to support them in learning what is needed and make them feel at ease and supported within their role.

Highlights for me have been becoming a small part of the Dame Hannahs family and being a part of the wonderful work that is done in supporting people in moving forward. Helping them to achieve their daily goals. I plan to volunteer for Dame Hannahs for as long as I am able to.”