Michael: “Volunteering is one of the best things you can do”
Michael Reynolds from Ramsgate volunteered within Pilgrims Hospices’ retail team from 2021-2022. He enjoyed his role at the Ramsgate shop, helping with the day-to-day operations that keep it running smoothly and provide an excellent experience for both customers and donors.
The Pilgrims team helped Michael to develop his skills, and he felt so supported that he ultimately found permanent employment as a Retail Supervisor at a local Morrisons Daily store.
The thank you card that Michael gave to the Ramsgate shop team when he left his volunteer role at Pilgrims
Michael shares how his volunteer role made a positive impact in his life and why others should get involved.
Michael’s mum, Sara, was diagnosed with cancer in 2017 and cared for by Pilgrims towards the end of her life.
Michael said: “Before I started volunteering, my mental health was not at its best. My mother passed away in 2019, after which I’d planned her funeral and had to try to find somewhere to live. I didn’t think I was ready for work, or even ready for anything. I’d barely had time to grieve.
“But I couldn’t stay at home, moping around. My friends had been so supportive but I needed to get out there.
“I heard that Pilgrims’ Ramsgate shop was looking for volunteers and decided to go for it. Pilgrims had been so wonderful and supported Mum and my family during her battle with cancer – some of the staff even attended her funeral. I wanted to give back however I could; volunteering seemed like a fantastic way to do that.
“When I started, I was very much “in my shell”, but over time I gained confidence. At the Ramsgate shop, I didn’t have colleagues, I had a family. I loved every moment. I operated tills, processed donations, priced them up and helped move furniture donations. I had a wonderful relationship with staff and customers alike and thoroughly enjoyed my time as a volunteer.”
It’s one of the best things you can do; you meet great new people, gain valuable experience, and develop truly helpful life skills. Volunteering is a crucial part of supporting your local community and the charity you are volunteering for.
Michael
Alex Hancock, Shop Manager, added:
“When Michael started with us, he was very shy. As time went on, his confidence grew. He was always very polite, helpful, and an absolute credit to the store. So many customers and volunteers would compliment his manners and courteousness. He became a real asset to the team, willing to step in at short notice if needed. I was delighted when Michael got the job at Morrisons Daily, but also gutted for the store as I knew we were losing a valuable part of the Ramsgate family. We wish him all the very best in his role and future career.”
And what would Michael tell someone who is considering volunteering for Pilgrims?
“It’s one of the best things you can do; you meet great new people, gain valuable experience, and develop truly helpful life skills. Volunteering is a crucial part of supporting your local community and the charity you are volunteering for. Never, ever, pass up the opportunity.
“By volunteering for Pilgrims, you become part of a family who all want to do right by the community. Pilgrims pulled me out of a depressed state and pushed me to do better for myself, and now I’m a Retail Supervisor.
Volunteers’ Week celebrates the amazing contributions volunteers make to communities across the UK. The celebration starts on the first Monday in June every year. It’s a chance to recognise, celebrate and thank the UK’s incredible volunteers for all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector, and society as a whole.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
21st May 2024
Slow fashion fashionistas support Pilgrims Hospices Kilo Sale
Pilgrims Hospices’ popular Kilo Sale eventreturns to St Peter’s Church Hall, Canterbury on Saturday 1 June 2024, promising fabulous bargains, sustainable shopping, and supporting local hospice care. The venue is located just behind Store50, Pilgrims one-stop shop for pre-loved, sustainable style at affordable prices.
Local fashionistas and Instagram influencers Charli Bevan and Laura Bruton from Sittingbourne, and Hannah Weet from Medway, share their top tips for shopping sustainably.
Charli shares her passion for second-hand fashion via her Instagram account @thebrightlife_charli.
“The Pilgrims Kilo Sales are always so well run with so many amazing items included on the rails – I’ve been absolutely blown over by how much high quality and new with tags stock has been available at previous events. There is also a great range of sizes and styles. The staff and volunteers are so friendly, and all the money goes to a fantastic cause. My favourite finds from a previous kilo sale were some trench coats from Zara and M&S. They are amazing quality, should have retailed for between £50-100 each, and I wear them almost every day in the spring.
“My advice for making the most of a kilo sale is to check all the sizes. Labels and numbers are just that, and there’s so much variation between brands that it’s always worth looking at a wider size range, as things often come up much smaller or larger than you would think.
“There are so many benefits to shopping pre-loved; the most obvious is the positive impact it has on the planet to prevent more and more clothes being manufactured, but there is also the cost element – you can get clothes that are still very much ‘on trend’ for a fraction of the price, as people and companies themselves donate stock so quickly. It also enables you to build a really unique wardrobe. You never know what you’ll come across, and the cheaper prices allow you to experiment with styles you otherwise wouldn’t… if it doesn’t work out, you can re-sell on pre-loved shopping platforms or donate it back.”
Laura is a graphic designer for a vegan beauty brand. Alongside her full-time role, she creates content for her Instagram account @_thegreendiva, where she shares her love for all things pre-loved fashion, sustainability and veganism.
“First and foremost, charity shopping just feels like a win-win for me. Not only are you lowering your carbon footprint by not buying new, but you are also saving money, preventing clothes from going to landfill, and most importantly, supporting an amazing cause.
“I’ve had some amazing finds over the years, but one of my recent faves actually came from the Pilgrims Kilo Sale in February 2024. I came home with a brand new Lavish Alice dress that is to die for, it fits me like a glove and genuinely makes me feel amazing!
“Kilo sales are such a good way to grab a bargain and find some unique and fun pieces. They’re a great opportunity to find and experiment with your personal style, as you aren’t splurging a lot on the individual items. I’ve found some real gems and just love the thrill of not knowing what I’m going to find amongst the rails! My advice would be to make a “thrifting wish list” of items you’re on the lookout for – that way, you won’t get super overwhelmed and end up buying things you don’t really want or need.
“Although charity shopping contributes to a more circular economy, it’s still easy to over-consume and buy items you don’t want just because they are cheap. Whilst I think the affordability of preloved shopping is a great reason to experiment with items you wouldn’t usually buy, it is still important to be mindful of how much you’re consuming. I have definitely been guilty of this in the past, but more recently I am asking myself a few basic questions before buying an item, such as:
Does this item bring me joy?
Do I love the way it makes me feel and how I look in it?
How many times am I going to wear this item, realistically?
Will it go with the other items in my wardrobe?
“I’ve been exclusively second-hand shopping for a while now and would never go back to fast fashion. Apart from the obvious environmental benefits, there is something so exciting about not knowing what you’re going to stumble across, and it has really helped me to establish my personal style. Taking the time to find specific pieces I’ve been on the lookout for has completely changed my relationship with my wardrobe. I feel more connected to the clothes I wear, remembering where I bought them, who I was with, and the genuine thrill of stumbling across an item on my wish list. Instead of walking into a curated shop and buying into the latest trends displayed, charity shops allow you the opportunity to find clothes that actually bring you joy. And on the topic of trends, I assure you there is nothing on the ASOS New In page that you can’t find a similar item of in a charity shop, trust me!”
Hannah is a social media manager for The Charity Shop Gift Card. In her free time, she creates content for her Instagram account @thethriftedthreds, which is focused on charity shopping and sustainability.
“People should support the Pilgrims Hospices Kilo Salebecause not only does the money raised go towards the vital work that Pilgrims do, but it also encourages shopping preloved and a circular economy. Shopping second-hand is great for the environment, as it reduces waste and the demand for new products. It’s also budget-friendly, offering unique finds at lower prices, and can of course go towards charity fundraising when purchases are made in charity shops.
“My top tips for a kilo sale would be to get there early and to look at every rail at least twice. Sometimes, people might pick something up and hang onto it then put it back on the rail, meaning you may have missed it the first time around; it’s always worth going for a second look. At the first Pilgrims Kilo Sale I went to, I managed to find a dress from Reformation; that’s definitely one of my favourite preloved finds because it was such a bargain!”
Pilgrims Hospices Kilo Sale takes place 10:00-14:00 on Saturday 1 June 2024 at St Peter’s Church Hall, Canterbury CT1 2BE. Entry is free. Cash and card payments will be accepted for all purchases.
You’ll be provided with a bag, then simply fill it up with the items you like, the Pilgrims team will weigh it and you pay £5 per kilo.
All money raised from the sale will help to run Pilgrims Hospices services in Canterbury, Ashford and Thanet, including supporting people to live well in their own homes.
Please note: There are no changing rooms at the event, and it will not be possible to return any purchased items; we recommend that you bring a tape measure along with you to check sizing.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
14th May 2024
Music and Media sale to rock Canterbury in support of Pilgrims Hospices
Get ready to groove and give back! Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce its upcoming Music and Media Sale on Saturday, May 18th, at St. Peter’s Church Hall, St. Peter’s Street in Canterbury. This one-of-a-kind extravaganza promises an unparalleled collection of 100,000 CDs, vinyl records, DVDs, books, and media-related merchandise, all available at rock-bottom prices starting as low as 50p.
Music enthusiasts and media lovers alike are invited to delve into a treasure trove of sonic delights. With an impressive line-up spanning from the iconic Rolling Stones and Beatles to the timeless tunes of George Michael and the beats of hip-hop masters, there’s something for every musical palate.
Expect massive deals on great artists, many on special three-for-two offers, and every opportunity to pick up an amazing bargain. The Pilgrims team will be on hand with their vast product knowledge to help shoppers and dealers alike find those special items that hit that musical spot.
But it’s not just about the tunes! St. Peter’s Church Hall, St. Peter’s Street, Canterbury, CT1 2BE, will transform into a haven for media enthusiasts, offering an array of T-shirts and memorabilia for fans to cherish. Whether you’re a vinyl collector, DVD aficionado, or searching for the perfect concert tee, the Massive Music and Media Sale has something for everyone.
What sets this event apart is its commitment to eco-friendly practices. Pilgrims Hospices recognises the importance of sustainability and encourages patrons to participate in environmentally conscious purchasing. By choosing to buy from this event, attendees not only add gems to their music collections but also contribute to the noble cause of supporting end-of-life care at Pilgrims Hospices.
Jonathan Gummer, E-commerce Manager at Pilgrims Hospices Retail, expressed his excitement about the event, saying, “We’re thrilled to host this electrifying event that combines the love for music and media with the spirit of giving. It’s a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy great music, find unique treasures, and support a cause that makes a real difference in people’s lives.”
Can’t make the date? Fear not!
Visit the Pilgrims Hospice eBay site, where you’ll find many interesting and collectible items that might just pique your interest.
For more information, please contact: Jonathan Gummer, E-commerce, Pilgrims Hospices Retail at [email protected] or telephone 07972 855 204.
Join us on Saturday, May 18th, for an unforgettable day of music, media, and philanthropy. Let’s rock Canterbury and make a difference in the lives of those in need!
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
22nd December 2023
Pilgrims Hospices announces closure of Concession at Blue Diamond Garden Centre
We are sorry to announce the permanent closure of our concession within the Blue Diamond Garden Centre on the Stour Business Park at Chartham, effective Saturday, 13th January 2024.
Over the years, we have enjoyed a positive working relationship with Blue Diamond, who are the primary leaseholder, and we respect their decision to utilise the building for their own purposes. We are actively seeking new premises in the local area and are committed to announcing our new location as soon as possible.
We express our sincere gratitude to all the dedicated staff and volunteers who have been an integral part of the shop, as well as to the local community for their support over the past 12 years. Thank you for your generosity. It’s been a privilege to be part of your community.
While bidding farewell to our current location, Pilgrims Hospices Retail will not be leaving the area entirely. We encourage you to continue supporting our hospice through our Furniture Shop, where donations are welcome. The Furniture Shop is conveniently located at the back of Stour Valley Business Park, opposite the car wash.
We extend our heartfelt thanks for your understanding and ongoing support, and we look forward to sharing updates with you in the New Year. Until then, we would like to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year.
15th August 2023
Media Madness this August for Pilgrims charity shop in Ashford
The Media Madness event takes place at Pilgrims Hospices Shop in Ashford, from August 24th to 26th, 2023. The ‘all things media’ event, will cater for media enthusiasts, collectors, and those who love to seek out a pre-loved treasure, or just to make an impulse purchase.
With a wide range of media-related items, the event will showcase, vinyl records, CD’s, toys and collectables, including Star Wars figures, books by actors, celebrities and bands, TV annuals, memorabilia, musical instruments, puzzles, games and anything and everything in between. The long-established, charity shop, in Castle Street, (located near the WWI tank just off the High Street), will be covering everything from movie stars to pop stars and far beyond!
Sandra Wonnacott, Pilgrims Shop Manager said: “We really hope our media event will cater for a wide variety of interests, there are some really unusual items and great bargains for everyone to browse.
“We are ready to welcome our regular customers who know there are some wonderful bargains on our shelves, along with new visitors to the shop. We hope the Media Madness event will bring more visitors to the Ashford shop, which in turn, will raise even more important funds for essential hospice services.”
DSC 0012 Media Madness HP Web 2
If you’re interested in media-related items, pop culture, and supporting a good cause, this event will be a fantastic opportunity to indulge your interests, while making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Enjoy the event and the chance to connect with fellow media enthusiasts while supporting your local Pilgrims Hospices charity. Be sure to mark your calendar for August 24-26!
We are ready to welcome everyone to our exciting event!
Sandra – Pilgrims
It will be a great opportunity to explore a diverse collection of media-related items, while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Sandra added: “Young or old, there are so many bargains to be had. Whether it’s a piece of artwork for your wall, a cuddly Disney toy, Harry Potter merchandise, or a CD to extend your collection. We will do our best to help you find it in our little shop bursting with goodies.”
Supporting a charitable cause while enjoying a fun and unique shopping experience is a great way to bring the community together.
Care is provided from three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet as well as in patients’ own homes. To offer these services to patients and their families the charity must raise £11 million each year from the generous local community.
28th July 2023
Happy 1st Birthday to Store50
After a dynamic year of trading, Store50, Pilgrims Hospices’ newest shop, celebrates its first birthday on Friday 4 August 2023.
Located at 50 St. Peter’s Street, Canterbury, in the heart of the city, the charity shop really has taken pre-loved fashion to the next level.
While aiming to make second-hand fashion affordable, chic and eco-friendly at the same time, Store50 has sold goods to the sum of £151,568.08 in its first year of trading.
In the busy year of stocking a diverse range of clothing for all, with a focus on ‘slow fashion’, advocating respect for people and the environment, often through reducing, reusing and recycling, rather than purchasing new items, this trendy little shop has served more than 16,500 customers, and sold almost 28,000 items, whilst saving large quantities of clothing from being sent to landfill.
As part of the birthday celebrations, and to thank our customers, we are giving free goody bags to every customer who purchases on 4 August 2023. As sustainability is the main focus of Store50, all bags will contain pre-loved items for shoppers.
The store will also be celebrating the success of sportswear sales, by opening a brand new standalone department for branded and chic sports gear; the sportswear hub for savvy Pilgrims shoppers will be located in the rear of the shop.
The shop has eight volunteers who support across all elements of the retail shop, helping manger Amy Eldridge to keep the stock vibrant, tagged, sized and priced and steamed ready for sale.
Mandy Hawkett, Retail Area Manager, said: “We are so proud of our volunteers, with their support we are achieving something very special for local shoppers, and raising funds for hospice care within the local community. We really appreciate everything they do, and would like to take this opportunity to thank them publicly. The volunteers run the till, meet and greet customers, tidy the shop floor, and keep our shelves stocked. They are always smiling and welcoming; they are the faces customers see when they walk through our shop doorway. We couldn’t run our store without their amazing efforts!
“Although we thought the shop would particularly appeal to Canterbury’s thriving student population, we are delighted to say our trendy threads appeal to everyone’s budget and suit every wardrobe, our customers come from all walks of life.
“Currently trending on our rails are dresses, sportswear and the ever-popular rag denim, were you can purchase items from as little as £3.
“We’re very excited to be launching the new sportswear department. We hope that by encouraging shoppers to thrift, and be mindful about their purchases, we can help to build a more sustainable retail economy that benefits people and our planet. By shopping with us, you will help to stop items going to landfill, save precious pennies, and also contribute to Pilgrims’ vital services across east Kent – supporting our charity to provide compassionate care to patients and families where and when they need it the most.”
Don’t forget to bring your student card, you will receive 10% discount, too!
Store50 is open 10:00-18:00 Monday-Saturday and 10:00-16:00 on Sundays.
Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community, and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
