A North Lincolnshire man who has dedicated over a decade to a local charity shop has been recognised for his hard work.
Steven Bailey, who has volunteered weekly at the Red Cross charity shop in Barton for ten years, is celebrating after receiving his 10 year service award.
Red Cross Week, held 8th-14th May 2016, is an annual fundraising event, encouraging people across the UK to support the Red Cross, by organising a ‘red’ fundraising event.
Steven, who is autistic and lives at Options Applegate House, in Barton-Upon-Humber, began volunteering to help get him involved within the local community.
Options Applegate House, owned by Options Autism, is an autism specific transitional service for young adults, which works to develop life-long learning, including social and domestic skills, and community and leisure facility access.
Options Autism provides specialist services for children, young people and adults with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC) and complex needs.
Steven volunteers for two hours every Tuesday, helping to organise CD and DVD’s, putting them in order, recycling stock and displaying them within the shop.
Talking about his volunteering, Steven said: “I really like volunteering at the Red Cross because it keeps me busy and helps me to focus. I like using the labels and stickers to organise the DVD’s, and looking at them while I sort them out.”
To recognise Steven’s dedication over the last ten years, Barton Red Cross charity shop manager, Janet Kerins, presented Steven with a framed certificate during a surprise lunch.
Speaking of Steven, Janet said: “He is a lovely young man, and makes us all laugh with his cheeky little ways. He is extremely dedicated to volunteering, and does a smashing job. It was a delight to present Steven with his certificate, he was very shocked, but over the moon! Everyone loves Steven, and he is definitely part of the Red Cross team. We hope he will continue to volunteer with us for many more years!”
Speaking of Steven’s award, Options Applegate House registered manager, Derrell Crump said: “Steven was very excited when he received his certificate from Janet, and enjoyed all of the praise and attention.
“This is a wonderful achievement and a well-deserved acknowledgement of Steven’s hard work and dedication over such a long period of time. Everyone at Applegate House is extremely proud of him.”
Find out more about the range of services provided by Outcomes First Group.