HOMEWARES retailer Dunelm will be hosting a free workshop at its Chester store to show customers how they can put their DIY skills to use and boost their income.

Dunelm says it is aiming to help residents to generate extra income to combat the cost of living with a new event at the Greyhound Retail Park store's Pausa café at 6.15pm on Tuesday, March 28.

Whether attendees are a dab hand at assembling flat pack furniture and putting up shelves or have the time to take on errands like local pick-up and delivery, the workshop will demonstrate how they could turn their talents and energy into cash with services marketplace, Airtasker.

Chesterfield based Tom Brookes, 31, will be sharing his story of how Airtasker has helped him to create a valuable side income. Tom joined Airtasker in July 2022. His resourceful approach and practical skills have seen him turning his hand to a wide variety of jobs via the Airtasker app, from assembling flat pack furniture, to driveway pressure washing and tv mounting.

Tom said: "I had little idea of what to expect when I signed up to Airtasker but am delighted with both the income it has generated for me and the flexible way in which I am able to decide which tasks are the ones I want to take on. I know it’s great for my customers as well, to be able to choose a local person at a price that suits them to help with the tasks they are unable to take on themselves. I am really looking forward to sharing more about my experience as a ‘Tasker’ to the customers attending the Dunelm Chester workshop."

John Davies, Store Manager at Dunelm’s Chester store added: "We know some customers are keen to generate extra income in these challenging times, so this free workshop is a great opportunity to get them started, using skills they already have to help others and make some money in the process. We also hope other customers will benefit from having locally available people to help them with practical tasks like assembling flat pack furniture or hanging a mirror."

Airtasker earning potentials include:

• Assembling furniture (£416)

• Pick-up and delivery (£312)

• Painting (£901)

• Cleaning (£409)

Dunelm’s association with Airtasker is just one initiative that the retailer is introducing in the North West to help its network of stores support members of their local community, during what is a challenging time for so many.

The initiatives range from community charity projects to the new Home to Home homeware donation scheme, part of Dunelm’s wider commitment to a circular economy.

Those interested in attending the session can visit the EventBrite link. The event also features complimentary tea, coffee and cake for attendees.