23 Sep 2024 Shop News

Shop spotlight of the month - Waterloo

The Kirkwood Waterloo Shop is a vibrant symbol of community spirit and support within its community. Over the years, the shop has not only become a trusted local establishment but also a place of emotional healing and connection for many of its volunteers and staff. This bustling charity shop, managed by the dedicated Tracy Littler and supported by a committed team of volunteers like Lynne Smith, plays a vital role in the local area, serving as a retail space and a lifeline for those seeking purpose and camaraderie.

The Kirkwood Waterloo Shop is located just two miles east of Huddersfield's town centre, is a thriving residential area, with independent shops, and a major supermarket. The Kirkwood’s Waterloo Shop has become a beloved part of the community, offering locals unique, high-quality donated items while supporting the important work of The Kirkwood.
 

Lynne Smith, once a local customer and now a staff member, started her journey at the Waterloo shop during one of the most challenging times of her life. "My dad had just died, and I didn’t know what to do with myself." Lynne reflects. After the loss of her father, who suffered from dementia, Lynne found solace in volunteering at The Kirkwood Waterloo Shop, surrounding herself with the company and immersing herself in her duties. What began as a way to keep busy quickly became a turning point in her life.

"When my dad died, I hit rock bottom," she shares. "I always told Tracy that volunteering for The Kirkwood saved my life, because I had gotten so low, feeling worthless and numb." The sense of purpose and community Lynne experienced through her volunteering began to lift her spirits. "Tracy and Tony, the shop managers, believed in me, this gave me a sense of pride, knowing I was making a difference, I volunteered every hour I could, I love being part of the team."
 

 

After 15 months of volunteering, Lynne transitioned into a paid team member, becoming a general shop assistant in February, and her passion for the shop and the people she works with remains unwavering. "I like the customers and the team. The volunteers are brilliant," she says, praising the warm and supportive environment of the shop. Lynne’s deep connection to The Kirkwood has helped her rebuild her confidence finding joy in helping customers, fellow volunteers and the team.

Instrumental in shaping the shop into the thriving community hub it is today, Tracy Littler, Waterloo shop manager has been part of The Kirkwood retail team for over seven years, transforming the shop and its team. Her vision for the shop was clear from the start: to create a space that was not only organised and appealing but also a place where people felt valued and welcomed. Reflecting on her seven years with The Kirkwood, Tracy comments, "I think you have to love it like I do, to do this job," Speaking of the physical and emotional demands of managing a charity shop. Over the years, she has worked hard to curate the items on display ensuring they are good quality and affordable. "I’m quite ruthless with how I organise the shop," she explains. Tracy’s commitment to offering unique and quirky items sets the shop apart from others, making it a go to destination for locals.

 

Building a strong team has been one of Tracy’s proudest achievements. "We've got a diverse group of over 30 volunteers who give their time to help, which is a great amount for a shop." Some of the volunteer team are local residents and some are students working toward their Duke of Edinburgh awards. It's a great collective of people bringing together individuals from different walks of life for a shared cause.

 

Both Tracy and Lynne emphasise the supportive and friendly atmosphere within the shop. The volunteers and team work together seamlessly, creating a space where customers feel welcome. "We go above and beyond," says Lynne. "If somebody asks for something, we'll try and source it for them." This sense of going the extra mile is what makes The Kirkwood’s Waterloo Shop more than just a place to find pre-loved treasures, it's a vital part of the community.

 

Tracey adds, "Knowing the income raised in the shop goes back into patient care is all the motivation I need." The Kirkwood provides essential care for people with life-limiting illnesses, and every sale at the shop contributes to this important mission. For Lynne, working at the shop has been more than just a job it's been a lifeline. "Volunteering and working for The Kirkwood has helped me improve my mental health, given me a sense of worth and belonging."

 

In every way, The Kirkwood’s Waterloo Shop is a testament to the power of community, kindness, and resilience. Through their dedication and passion, Tracy, Lynne, and the rest of the team have created a space where people come together, not just to shop, but to support one another.

Coming up next month... Diid you know The Kirkwood has it's own Gift Shop and Cafe in Denby Dale?
Next month we will be visiting Molly and the team at Denby Dale Library/The Kirkwood Cafe highlighting some of the placed based work we are doing in the area and how Molly and her team are integral in helping us raise awareness of our services across the whole of Kirklees.