A volunteer from social enterprise Changing Lives in Warrington has received a ‘Volunteer of the Year award’ at a national conference ahead of National Volunteer’s Week (June 1-7).
June Faunch, 22, from Padgate received the award at the Furniture Re-Use Network awards earlier this month, celebrating the re-use and recycling of waste in the UK.
Craig Anderson, CEO of FRN, who presented June with her award, said: “Described as a “Ray of Sunshine” by those who worked closely with her, June proved herself to be a dedicated volunteer that turned up early, left late and often went the extra mile to do an outstanding job for the Changing Lives in Warrington (CLiW) team based at the Cockhedge Centre in Warrington.”
Changing Lives in Warrington was established to provide people on a low income the chance to access good quality items for the home at low cost. The outlet also provides employment, training and development opportunities for local people as well as enabling the re-use and recycling of waste to protect the environment. Last year the enterprise helped more than 3,000 Cheshire families. The Mayor of Warrington opened the new larger outlet in Prince Henry Square last month and the site currently supports 14 volunteers from the Warrington area.
Volunteer and Workplace Supervisor for Changing Lives in Warrington, Carol Halpin said: “June spent most of her childhood growing up in local authority care. After leaving care she secured her own accommodation but struggled with paying bills and lacked confidence, qualifications, and employable skills. From unconfident and unreliable beginnings, June has become a fantastic sales person and developed a keen interest in the ‘science’ of shop displays in our store.”
Carol added: “In an extraordinary short time, just seven months, June has battled and addressed all of her barriers to employment. She has taken on board every suggestion and offer of help; increasing her confidence, self-esteem, appearance and employment skills. We’re very proud of what she has achieved.”
June said: “I was really shocked to receive the award and feel that all my hard work during my volunteering with Changing Lives in Warrington has paid off. Thanks to their help and support I’m starting a three-month work trial with another Warrington high-street retailer shortly. Carol and the team at Warrington have given me the confidence to now take control of my own career.”
If you would like to find out more about volunteering at Changing Lives in Warrington during National Volunteers Week from June 1-7 then pop in to the outlet store at the Cockhedge Centre or call 01925 634 112.
