LOCAL charity shoppers got more than they bargained for today (26 July) after being served by a rather familiar face – Liberal Democrat MSP for South of Scotland, Jim Hume.
Mr Hume, housing spokesman for the Liberal Democrats, volunteered at Shelter Scotland’s Ayr shop, helping to sort donations, price items and put out stock – much to the delight of customers.
Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for South Scotland and Housing Spokesperson, Jim Hume, said:
“Volunteering here in Shelter Scotland’s new Ayr shop is a really useful way to hear from staff and volunteers on the ground about day to day housing issues. It’s also important in underlining the vital role charities play in our communities – last year alone 19,000 calls were made to Shelter Scotland’s helpline so it’s critical that government policy is focussed on providing enough socially rented accommodation for people.”
Graeme Brown, director of Shelter Scotland, said:
“We’re excited to welcome Jim to our team of dedicated volunteers and hope he enjoys his time at the Ayr shop. Like many charity retailers, our shops are predominantly staffed by hard working and dedicated volunteers, who give up what little time they have to help others. I’m sure the staff, volunteers and customers in Ayr will appreciate Jim’s hard work.”
Graeme Brown added:
“At a time when funding for our national and local services is being cut our 37 shops across Scotland are a vital source of income. We understand that not everyone has the time to volunteer, but there are many other ways to help us in our fight against bad housing and homelessness such as donating unwanted goods to one of our shops or making a direct donation via our website – no donation is too small.
“We hope that the people of Ayr will continue to support Shelter Scotland, because without their help and generosity our fight to end bad housing and homelessness would be so much harder.”
Ends/
Notes to Editors:
- Shelter Scotland provides expert support services, online advice and a free national helpline for everyone facing housing and homelessness difficulties. For advice and support visit http://scotland.shelter.org.uk or call 0808 800 4444.
- Spokespeople are available for interview – call the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line is available for broadcast interviews.
- Follow Shelter Scotland on Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/shelterinscotland Twitter – http://twitter.com/shelterscotland
Shelter Scotland believes everyone should have a home. We help people find and keep a home. We campaign for decent housing for all.
MEDIA RELEASE posted by Shelter Scotland. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Contact: Shelter Scotland
Phone: 08445152442
Email: mediascotland@shelter.org.uk
Website: http://www.shelterscotland.org.uk
