Unit 11, Saxon Square, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1QA

“Opening our first-ever charity shop is an exciting milestone in our charity’s development. Over the past few years, we have experienced significant growth, doubling our geographic reach across West Dorset, doubling the number of families we support, and more than tripling the number of support groups we run.

The retail shop will deliver an additional revenue stream for the charity, while also enabling us to reach families in and around Christchurch in a new way. The lease has been signed, and the refit work has begun. We can’t wait to see the space come to life over the coming weeks.” – Kathy Fryatt-Banks, Home-Start Wessex CEO

To support the shop, we have recruited two new full-time staff members who are already busy working behind the scenes to prepare for the shop’s opening. Ellie Stafford has been appointed Retail Manager, and Carla Milroy has been appointed Deputy Retail Manager. They will work alongside volunteers to run the shop six days per week.

Ellie has worked in the charity retail industry for 10 years, managing two highly successful charity shops in the Cotswolds and Bournemouth, working with both national and local charities. Carla also has extensive experience in both charity and counselling roles, having helped manage the Barnardo’s charity shop in Winton for the past 10 years.

“We are very excited to welcome local families into our shop and can’t wait to be part of the Christchurch community. Having worked with Home-Start Wessex for a few months now, I can honestly say the heart of this charity is its people. The family team, the volunteers – they’re what make this charity very special.” – Ellie

Carla added, “Everyone involved in the charity is so dedicated to making a difference to the families we support, and I am so happy to be part of the team. We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive shop environment for our customers. Whether someone’s popping in for a browse, a chat, or to donate, we want them to feel seen, valued and part of something special.”

Home-Start Wessex is now accepting donations of good-quality clothing, toys, and equipment for the shop. Items can be dropped off at Unit 11, Saxon Square, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1QA. Donations can be dropped to the back door on Tuesdays and Wednesdays only.  

Make sure you are connected with us on social media (links below) for regular shop updates.