Julie's story

Julie started volunteering at the Windsor and Dedworth shops in 2012 after being made redundant. She decided to give her time to the Hospice following the death of her best friend who had been cared for by the Hospice.

Two years later, in 2014, she was offered the post of Assistant Manager and she then spent the next six years specialising in vintage items at the Windsor shop. With a degree in costume design and an interest in social history—particularly in 1950s and '60s design and art deco—Julie brought valuable expertise to the role, especially in domestic costume and collectibles.

When the pandemic hit, she was invited to support the eBay operation at Kings Grove.

“I went back to the Windsor shop after the lockdowns ended, but I’d realised I really enjoyed the eBay side of things,” she said. “After six years, it felt like the right time for a change.”

Since launching in 2010, our eBay shop has grown significantly—especially post-pandemic—and now plays an important role in generating income.

The eBay team now includes five staff and around 30 volunteers. Volunteer roles vary: some volunteers manage listings, others focus on research, and some specialise in packing. Volunteers are encouraged to identify their interests early on so they can contribute where they’re most effective.

Julie now focuses on sorting and listing high-end jewellery, glass, china, and collectibles. “I go through a lot of donated jewellery looking for gold—it takes time, but it’s worth it. You start to recognise quality quickly, especially after years of handling items.”

She frequently works with well-known names such as Royal Crown Derby, Lladro, Minton, and Wedgwood. “Even incomplete or damaged items can have value, depending on rarity. For example, I sold five Lladro figurines—with two damaged—for £500.”

One of the most valuable finds she’s seen was a solid gold Krugerrand coin, which sold for £1,400 while a set of ceramic Wedgwood buttons sold for £130. “There are always surprises.”

Staff and volunteers can also donate items directly to eBay, helping to ensure high-quality donations are sold to their full potential.