A small hospital service that supports patients, visitors and Johnson Hospital fundraising has found a new volunteer to keep it running. The Trolley Shop is continuing in the hospital foyer after members of Pinchbeck WI stepped in when a shortage of volunteers forced it to stop.
The mobile stall sells everyday supplies to patients and visitors who may not have expected to be in hospital. It also raises money for the Friends of Johnson Hospital, helping fund equipment and services that are not available through the NHS.
Pinchbeck WI volunteers brought the stall back
Members of Pinchbeck WI took responsibility for staffing the trolley 18 months ago. Their support restored the service and helped it become successful again, with the fundraiser raising thousands of pounds.
The Friends of Johnson Hospital has now thanked the WI members as they prepare to step back. Charity secretary Christine Grocock praised their contribution to bringing the service back to patients and visitors.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the wonderful members of he Pinchbeck WI, who generously made time from their busy schedules to help reinstate this vital service.”
“Their dedication has brought comfort and connection to so many.”
New volunteer takes on the Trolley Shop
Sally Goodacre, a recent member of the Friends’ charity, is taking over the stall. She said the trolley would give her a practical way to approach patients and begin conversations, rather than arriving without an obvious reason to speak to them.
“Taking on the Trolley Shop feels like such a natural fit,” says Sally.
She said the service could help her connect with patients while also brightening their day.
“Having the trolley with me gives a wonderful, practical reason to approach patients and strike up a conversation, rather than turning up cold.”
“It really opens the door to connect with people and brightens their day.”
The Friends of Johnson Hospital says the Trolley Shop’s dual role remains important: it provides practical items for people at the hospital while generating funds for additional equipment and services. Its continuation means the service can carry on after the Pinchbeck WI volunteers’ 18-month spell.
