Get Stuck In: Volunteering with British Heart Foundation Halifax

Get Stuck In: Volunteering with British Heart Foundation Halifax

Make a Difference, One Hour at a Time

Every 16 hours, someone dies from a heart or circulatory disease in Calderdale. With around 26,000 people in the area living with these conditions, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) shop in Halifax is working tirelessly to fund life-saving research—but they need all hands-on deck. With a solid team of 70 volunteers already contributing, there’s always room for more, whether you’ve got an hour a week or a few days to spare.

I popped in for a chat with Amanda, the store manager, and Dave, the Assistant Manager, and was struck by the friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds work side by side, creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home. It’s a fantastic place for students looking for experience, retirees wanting to stay active, those new to the UK hoping to improve their English, and even people with learning disabilities seeking social connections.

Something for Everyone

Volunteering at British Heart Foundation isn’t just about sorting stock or working the till—there are so many ways to get involved. Whether you love a good rummage through books, have an eye for displays, or fancy yourself a bit of a tech whizz, there’s a role for you:

• Online Lister – Uncover hidden gems and get them listed for sale online.
• Visual Merchandiser – Make the shop look its best and attract more customers.
• Stockroom Assistant – Keep the backroom organised and running smoothly.
• Books and Homeware Specialist – Sort, price, and display special finds.
• Stock Collection Driver – Pick up donations from local businesses and people.

Not sure if it’s for you? You can book a taster session—no pressure, just a chance to give it a go.

More Than Just Volunteering

It’s not all about the graft—there’s a real sense of community at BHF Halifax. Volunteers get involved in social groups, Christmas parties, and fun events, creating a space where people truly enjoy spending their time.

Amanda loves seeing volunteers bring their unique skills to the table. Take one trainee doctor, for example—they’re offering free CPR training to local businesses in exchange for stock donations. It’s this kind of fresh thinking that makes volunteering at BHF so much more than just helping in a shop—it’s a chance to be part of something bigger.

Halifax Pulling Together

At Discover Halifax, we’re all about championing local businesses and organisations that work together to make the town thrive. The British Heart Foundation is a shining example, forging partnerships across Halifax. Claire’s Accessories donates stock as part of their corporate giving, while BHF volunteers even run spin classes at PureGym to raise funds.

This year alone, the Halifax shop has raised an impressive £60,000 for life-saving heart research—with three months still to go. Meanwhile, across West Yorkshire, BHF is currently investing £17 million into groundbreaking research to combat heart and circulatory diseases, ensuring vital progress continues.

And did you know? The British Heart Foundation’s eBay operation, now a £3 million success story based in Leeds, actually started right here in Halifax. It’s proof that big things start small—and they start local.

Can’t Volunteer? You Can Still Help

Not everyone has time to volunteer, but you can still play a part:

• Donate Stock – Have a clear-out and donate good-quality items to keep the shop stocked.
• Corporate Partnerships – Businesses can contribute through stock donations, fundraising events, or team volunteering days.
• Shop & Spread the Word – Every purchase funds research, and telling a friend about volunteer opportunities helps too.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Volunteering is flexible, rewarding, and makes a real impact. As Amanda puts it, “We’re nothing without our volunteers.” Whether you can give an hour or a day, every bit helps.

Find out more about volunteering and browse all opportunities here: British Heart Foundation

Businesses & Community Groups – Get Involved!

If you’re a business or organisation looking to support the British Heart Foundation, get in touch! Whether it’s donating stock, hosting a fundraising event, or arranging a corporate volunteering day, every contribution helps.