For the past eighteen months, the wonderful members of Pinchbeck WI have been the friendly faces behind the Friends’ Trolley Shop. We extend our deepest gratitude to Dorothy, Tracey, Philomena, Marion, and Linda, who generously made time from their busy schedules to help reinstate this vital service. Their dedication has brought comfort and connection to so many.
The Trolley Shop is a non-profit service provided by The Friends’ Charity specifically for patients on the Welland Ward. Stocked with everyday essentials such as toiletries, sweets, and magazines, it ensures patients have easy access to items they might otherwise lack during their stay.
However, the Trolley Shop is so much more than a mobile store. Beyond the practical items, it brings a warm smile and a friendly chat straight to the bedside. For patients who may not have regular visitors, these gentle social interactions are truly invaluable, offering warmth and companionship when it is needed most.
As the Pinchbeck WI team steps back, we are delighted to share that Sally Goodacre, a new member of the Friends’ Charity, is taking over the running of the shop. Sally is already an active hospital visitor, and she is eager to blend her visiting role with managing the trolley.
“Taking on the Trolley Shop feels like such a natural fit,” says Sally Goodacre. “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.”
While the WI members are taking a well-deserved step back from regular duties, community support remains as strong as ever. Both Tracey and Philomena have kindly offered to step in and assist Sally whenever the need arises.
We want to say a huge thank you once again to Dorothy, Tracey, Philomena, Marion, and Linda for their eighteen months of service, and a very warm welcome to Sally as she embarks on this next chapter for the Trolley Shop.
Christine Grocock
Secretary
Friends of Johnson Community Hospital
info@friendsofjohnsonhospital.co.uk