A few pennies will make a difference

As a member of the National Trust and an avid purchaser of things from charity shops, I find it sad that they have both lost so many volunteers since Covid reared its ugly head.

After visiting four National Trust houses last week while staying in Warwickshire, it was such a shame to hear how low the number of volunteers had got, as many have not returned to work for fear of getting ill, or just become more housebound as many of them are retired.

As the pandemic closed all National Trust properties and charity shops, it has had such a knock-on effect.

Many charities are struggling for money and obviously the beautiful historic houses will also suffer, as the money that could help these causes is now needed elsewhere.

The Cancer Research charity shop I visited today asked me if I was willing to pay a small amount on top of my purchase, to help with losses while the shops were closed, so I paid an extra 50p.

I know it’s not much but if everyone pays a small amount with each purchase or visit to National Trust homes, it will help them hugely – and I am sure quite a few of us have saved quite a bit by not going on holidays.

H. Regan, Cardiff