More Than a Shop

When you think of charity shops, you might think of bargain prices, maybe a hidden gem or the perfect place to get the last piece of a fancy dress outfit. You might think of it as a good place to get rid of your clutter after a clear out or a great way for charities to make money.

All of those things are true. But, the Age UK Hammersmith & Fulham charity shop is also so much more than that.

For older residents living in the north of the borough, it’s their point of access for any help they need. It’s somewhere they can go to learn digital skills or get some advice on where to turn in a crisis. For many people, it’s also companionship. Regular customers come in for a friendly face and there’s always someone there who knows them. Someone who remembers to ask about the grandkids, or knows you love a good chat about politics. It reminds them that they’re part of a community. A community that cares about them.

Of course, the money the shop raises is important too. Donations flood in every single day, keeping up with the demand of people’s purchases. It’s a great way to give unwanted items a new home and the shop is an absolute treasure trove. It’s a challenge to walk out empty handed!

And anything we can’t sell, maybe because it’s too old or damaged, doesn’t just go in the bin. It all gets recycled. We send off bags of unsuitable items once a week for recycling, so nothing ends up in landfill.

So, why are we telling you this? Well, for starters, we think everyone should know. It’s an amazing shop (if we do say so ourselves!) and deserves all the visitors it can manage.

But also, it’s #SecondHandSeptember right now and if you’re looking for a way to get involved, consider this your sign. Have a clear out and bring some donations by to the Age UK Hammersmith & Fulham shop in the West 12 Shopping Centre. And while you’re there, have a browse, have a chat, be part of our community. Our doors are open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5.45pm and we would love to see you there.