Mike’s Volunteering Story
“Volunteering for the hospice makes complete sense for me. It allows me to use my skillset and enjoy my passion for clothes, while helping a brilliant local cause,” explained Mike Smith, who has volunteered at St Elizabeth Hospice’s Framlingham shop since 2023.
Every year more than 4,000 people living with a progressive or life-limiting illness, and their families, are supported throughout East & Mid-Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney by the free specialist palliative care provision of St Elizabeth Hospice.
This care is provided by hospice staff who operate throughout the region but who are supported by a fantastic team of volunteers, whose generosity enables St Elizabeth Hospice to continue evolving its services to care for more people in the local community.
“I lived and worked in London for many years with my partner,” said Mike, who now lives near Framlingham.
“She received support from St Luke’s Hospice before her death, so I understand the difference hospice care can make to patients and their loved ones during that precious remaining time they have together.
“I spent 30 years working in the menswear industry, collaborating with brands and retailers on the commercial side of the business – buying, sourcing, licensing, and latterly in wholesale. I worked with international brands, selling into UK menswear stores.
“However, with the emergence of online shopping and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, shopping habits have changed and with it the UK high street. I decided to come out of the industry, and now live in Suffolk with my new partner Sam.
“I have always been a keen supporter of charities and enjoy shopping in charity shops for pre-loved clothes, as there are fantastic finds you can make.
“After leaving London, I still wanted to stay involved in fashion, as it has been such a big part of my life. When I came across St Elizabeth Hospice’s shop in Framlingham, and saw the volunteering opportunities available, it felt like the perfect way to use my skills to support a great cause.
“I typically volunteer one day a week, for two to three hours, which fits well with my other commitments. My role involves pricing and sorting donations, as well as selecting the best items to sell using my experience in men’s fashion.
“I love working with donated clothes and spotting hidden gems that others might not find. It’s so satisfying to see these items displayed and sold, knowing that each sale helps raise vital funds for the hospice. Being part of that process is incredibly fulfilling.
“I volunteer at the shop because I’m passionate about clothing, especially menswear, and sustainability. Shopping in charity shops is a fantastic way to support the environment, and there are some amazing finds out there waiting to be discovered.
“With my industry experience, I’ve seen how the second-hand fashion sector is growing in popularity, particularly among younger generations who are eager to buy pre-loved items. It’s exciting to be part of that movement in some way.
“Volunteering is such a rewarding experience, and the team here are great fun to be around. I’ll continue to volunteer at the shop for as long as I can.
“I’d encourage anyone to give volunteering a go – you have nothing to lose, and you’ll be supporting a charity that provides vital services to so many people in your community.”
To learn more about volunteering opportunities at St Elizabeth Hospice email volunteer@stelizabethhospice.org.uk or visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/support-us/support-us/volunteer-for-us/.
