PEOPLE in Wellington are being encouraged to see their local hospice charity shop in a new light, as St Margaret’s Hospice Care launches their More than a Shop campaign.

More than a Shop celebrates the vital role that the hospice’s charity shops play in funding specialist care across the community, whilst recognising the dedicated staff and volunteers who work hard across their 32 shops, including one in Wellington.

For many people, the hospice shops are places to find a bargain or donate unwanted items. It’s easy to forget that every purchase and donation contributes to the funding of specialist hospice services, supporting nurses, doctors and wider clinical teams to provide expert care when it is needed most.

Michael was visited at home by community nurse, Angie who recognised his symptoms needed additional treatment.
Michael was visited at home by community nurse, Angie who recognised his symptoms needed additional treatment. (PHOTO: St Margaret’s Hospice Care)

Last year, the hospice’s retail operation generated approximately £6.77 million in gross sales.

The profits generated by the hospice shops are enough to fund community nurses, like Angie Hayes, who provide compassionate care to patients in their own homes.

Michael Johnson’s first contact with the hospice came through a visit from Angie.

“I wasn’t quite sure what palliative care was at the time,” Michael said. “But Angie was remarkable. She listened to all of my problems and I have definitely benefited from the efforts she made.”

Community nurse Angie Hayes visits provided invaluable support to patient Michael.
Community nurse Angie Hayes visits provided invaluable support to patient Michael. (PHOTO: St Margaret’s Hospice Care )

Following that first meeting, Angie consulted with a doctor about Michael’s symptoms and it was decided that further treatment was needed to stop his cancer spreading.

“If I hadn’t had that radiotherapy, I would probably have been paralysed from the waist down,” Michael said.

“I’ll always be very grateful to Angie. I would recommend anybody go to St Margaret’s, I really would. My experience with them has been first class.”

While Michael’s care was delivered by the clinical team, it was made possible by the local community’s support of the hospice’s retail operation.

Find out more at: www.st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/shop/