Wanting to give back to the community he currently calls home, while studying history at Cardiff University. Sam's also part of the Officers’ Training Corps. 

We recently caught up with Sam on a busy afternoon in the shop, to ask him why and how he volunteers with Tenovus Cancer Care?

I’m from Hampshire, so when I arrived at Cardiff University to study history, I found I had some free time outside my studies and wanted to fill it with something productive and meaningful.

I was drawn to volunteering at Tenovus Cancer Care because it’s specifically a Welsh charity. I know there are loads of fantastic charity shops along Albany Road and the surrounding area, but I felt strongly about giving back to the community I’m now part of and live within here in Wales.

What is your favourite item to sort through and sell?

Definitely the books and especially the more niche and unusual. I’m a history buff, so even enjoy discovering those books I’m not having to study for my degree. I’ve just found a copy of The Campaign’s of Wellington - a collection of eyewitness accounts from the Wellingtons campaigns during the Napoleonic wars. 

I’d say I spend quite a lot of money of these kinds of books as they come in to the shop!

Sam goes on to explain how his girlfriend’s mother is currently in recovery from cancer.

I think the support services offered by Tenovus Cancer Care would have been absolutely fantastic for her. It would be so amazing if there was a charity like Tenovus Cancer Care available for people in Devon.

So, what is so special about working in the shop?

It’s nice to interact with people and a lot of people who come into the shop are not necessarily looking to just buy things.  They're looking for a bit of social interaction, so it’s nice to chat to different people who come in, who may otherwise not get that day-to-day social interaction that they're looking for.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone interested in volunteering with a charity such as Tenovus Cancer Care? 

Well, I would say just go for it. It really doesn't have to be a massive commitment - I give an afternoon a week and it fits in perfectly with my university schedule – and most importantly, it gives me a sense of fulfilment in helping others in my community. 

It also looks fantastic on your CV and future employers like reading and talking about your volunteering experience with you, as it’s such a unique thing to do. I know many people volunteer as part of their Welsh Baccalaureate here in Wales or through a Duke of Edinburgh programme. 

But mostly I’m really proud that I created this opportunity for myself when I moved to live here.”