Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce that the Canterbury Retail Christmas Fair, held on Saturday 30 November 2024 at St. Dunstan’s Church Hall, raised an incredible £2,450 – surpassing last year’s total!
Charlotte Brown, Pilgrims Hospices’ Shop Manager at the St. Dunstan’s shop, and her dedicated team of volunteers created a magical festive atmosphere, welcoming hundreds of visitors eager to shop for Christmas decorations, gifts, toys, and more. The day wouldn’t have been complete without special appearances from Father Christmas and Mrs. Christmas, delighting children and adults alike.
PH Retail Pre-Loved Christmas Fair_1
“Thank you so much to everyone who supported our Christmas Fair,” said Charlotte. “We love hosting this event for our local community, who support us so brilliantly. It was wonderful to see familiar faces and welcome new ones, with many stopping to enjoy tea, cake, and a friendly chat. Every penny raised will go towards providing vital end-of-life care in our community.”
Pilgrims Hospices is immensely grateful for the support that makes events like this so successful, helping to continue the charity’s mission of providing compassionate care to those who need it most.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
27th November 2024
Pilgrims Hospices brings fashionability to Tankerton with exciting new charity shop
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its brand new charity shop, NWT@Tankerton (New With Tags), located at 106 Tankerton Road, Tankerton, Whitstable CT5 2AJ.
This innovative store, opening its doors at 10:00am on Thursday 5 December 2024, offers a unique twist on charity shopping – every single item in the store is unworn and comes with its original retailer tags.
This is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a haven for fashion lovers who value quality, sustainability and a good bargain. Shoppers can expect to find a dazzling range of items, from high street favourites to luxurious high-end brands, all at a fraction of the price.
“We’re so excited to welcome shoppers to NWT@Tankerton,” said Karen Hills, Shop Manager. “It’s a unique concept that brings incredible value to our customers while supporting the vital work of Pilgrims Hospices. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping party outfit, a thoughtful gift, or a wardrobe refresh, NWT@Tankerton has something for everyone.”
Mandy Hawkett, Retail Area Manager and Karen Hills, NWT@Tankerton Shop Manager
What makes NWT@Tankerton special?
This pioneering store is the first of its kind in the UK, dedicated exclusively to new, tagged items. Pilgrims Hospices receives thousands of these high-quality garments annually, generously donated by supporters. Now, for the first time, these gems will be available year-round in one convenient location.
This sustainable shopping model is perfect for eco-conscious shoppers who want to reduce textile waste while still indulging in retail therapy.
Opening hours: 10:00am on opening day; 9:00am – 4:30pm Monday to Saturday (closed Sundays)
Come along, meet the team, and enjoy the festive atmosphere! You’ll find an array of clothing and accessories perfect for the holiday season, including glamorous party wear, cosy winter essentials, and more.
Fashionability and purpose
NWT@Tankerton combines fashionability with purpose, offering a guilt-free shopping experience. Every purchase contributes directly to funding Pilgrims Hospices’ compassionate end-of-life care across east Kent. In addition to supporting the charity’s vital work, shoppers are also making an eco-friendly choice by opting for sustainable fashion.
More than just a shop
Want to do more? NWT@Tankerton is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join the team!
Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new people, learn new skills, and support your community. For more information, click here.
Keep in touch!
For the latest fashion tips, outfit inspiration, and sneak peeks at the fabulous items in store:
With 31 shops across east Kent, Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, end-of-life care for patients and families. Proceeds from all shop sales directly fund this vital work, supporting the community in countless ways.
Be part of this exciting new venture, and join us on 5 December at NWT@Tankerton. Let’s shop, save, and support together!
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
14th November 2024
Get ready to rock and give back! Pilgrims Hospices’ Massive Music and Media Sale
Mark your calendars for a fantastic day of music, media, and giving back!
Pilgrims Hospices is excited to announce the Massive Music and Media Sale on Saturday 14 December 2024 at St. Peter’s Methodist Church Hall, St. Peter’s Street, Canterbury CT1 2BE.
This special event is the perfect opportunity to shop for Christmas while supporting local hospice care in east Kent.
With thousands of vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, books, and media-related goodies starting at just 50p, with multi-buy options available on selected items, this is a can’t-miss event for music lovers and media collectors alike! Whether you’re a fan of the Rolling Stones, The Beatles, George Michael, or even hip hop legends, you’ll find incredible bargains and hidden gems across a wide range of genres.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Many items will be available in special multi-buy deals, meaning even more opportunities to snag a unique find. Plus, the knowledgeable Pilgrims Hospices team will be on hand to help guide you to those must-have items, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just browsing.
T-shirts, memorabilia, and a wide variety of media treasures will also be on offer, so whether you’re searching for the perfect vinyl, a collectable DVD, or a concert tee, the Massive Music and Media Sale has something for everyone.
Just some of the fabulous items that will be available to purchase at the event
And it’s all for a great cause! By shopping at the Massive Music and Media Sale, you’ll be supporting Pilgrims Hospices’ mission to provide compassionate end-of-life care for people in east Kent. Plus, this event is eco-friendly – shopping second-hand helps reduce waste, and you’ll be giving new life to pre-loved items while making a positive impact on the environment.
Jonathan Gummer, E-commerce Manager at Pilgrims Hospices Retail, shared his excitement about the sale:
“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.”
Whether you’re looking for a Christmas gift for that special someone or just want to treat yourself, this sale is packed with amazing stock. From high-end rarities to fun stocking fillers, there’s something for everyone at incredible prices.
Join us on Saturday 14 December 2024, from 9:30am – 3:30pm, for an unforgettable day of shopping, music, and giving back! Let’s rock Canterbury and help make a difference in the lives of those in need of Pilgrims care throughout the festive season.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
27th September 2024
Pilgrims Hospices Faversham shop celebrates 40 years of community spirit
The Pilgrims Hospices shop on West Street, Faversham, is celebrating an incredible 40 years of service to the local community.
Over the past four decades, this beloved shop has become a cherished part of Faversham life, offering everything from unique finds to a welcoming smile.
As part of the Pilgrims Hospices family, the shop plays a vital role in supporting compassionate end-of-life care across east Kent.
Jan, Faversham shop volunteer
Exciting refurbishment ahead
To mark this special occasion, the Faversham shop will be closing its doors temporarily from Monday 30 September 2024 for a fresh and fabulous refurbishment. The shop will reopen on Thursday 24 October at 10am, unveiling a vibrant new look that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern updates.
Manager Rob Adams and his dedicated team are eager to welcome customers back to a shop that retains its warm, familiar atmosphere while offering some exciting new touches.
This will be a fantastic opportunity for shoppers to grab brand new high street clothing at incredible charity shop prices. With racks full of unworn items, this is a rare chance to refresh your wardrobe while supporting a cause close to the heart of the Faversham community.
Sustainability and community first
In keeping with the growing trend toward sustainable shopping, the shop’s commitment to rehoming preloved items has never been more relevant.
By shopping at Pilgrims, customers not only find great bargains but also contribute to reducing waste, all while supporting essential hospice care for those who need it most.
Voices of the volunteers
The shop’s success over the years wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering dedication of its volunteers, many of whom have been with the shop for several years.
Anne, from Yorkletts, has volunteered for over three years. After receiving care for her father-in-law from Pilgrims Hospices, she was inspired to give back:
“It was an obvious choice to volunteer here. The team is fantastic, and we share so many laughs. It’s a great place to be, and I feel like I’m doing something meaningful for the community.”
Sara, a local Faversham resident, found her place at the hospice shop after retiring from public service:
“This shop has given me a renewed sense of purpose. It’s not just about sorting donations, it’s about meeting people, making friends, and being part of something bigger. I’m so excited to see the fresh new look.”
Anne and Sara, Faversham shop volunteers
Jan, who has volunteered for almost eight years, also shared her thoughts:
“I’ve lived in Faversham for 45 years, and this town has an incredible community spirit. Volunteering at the shop keeps me connected, and I love every minute of it.”
A heartfelt thank you
Rob Adams, the shop’s manager, extended his gratitude to everyone who has supported the shop over the years:
“We’re so proud of what we’ve achieved, and we couldn’t have done it without the help of our amazing volunteers and loyal customers. The shop is more than just a place to find a bargain — it’s a part of Faversham’s fabric. Thank you for 40 years of support, and here’s to many more!”
Join us!
The Pilgrims Hospices Faversham shop invites you to join in the celebrations on Thursday 24 October. Whether you’re hunting for high street treasures, seeking unique vintage finds, or simply want to soak in the community spirit, we can’t wait to welcome you through the doors of our newly refurbished shop!
For updates on the grand re-opening and the Brand New With Tags event, keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram.
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
22nd July 2024
Happy birthday to Pilgrims Hospices Deal shop! Celebrating 40 years of community support and compassion
Pilgrims Hospices Shop on Deal High Street is celebrating a remarkable milestone: 40 years of dedicated service to the community.
To mark this special occasion, the shop at 128 High Street will re-open on Thursday 25 July 2024 after a significant refurbishment.
Celebrating 40 years of community impact
Since opening its doors in 1984, Pilgrims Hospices Deal shop has been more than just a charity shop. Originally a grocery store, the shop has transformed into a cornerstone of the community, offering a friendly space to chat and browse through an eclectic range of quality clothing, traditional bric-a-brac, household items, and books.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Deal community for their unwavering support over the past 40 years. This milestone is a testament to the generosity and compassion of our supporters,” said Rebecca (Bex) Carden, the shop manager.
A mission of compassion
The primary mission of Pilgrims Hospices Deal shop is to support Pilgrims Hospices in providing care for patients with life-limiting illnesses.
The shop has become a beloved spot for locals, known for its warm atmosphere and the friendly faces of its dedicated volunteers.
Community impact
Over the years, many volunteers have brought energy and smiles to this special little shop. Notably, in the early 2000s, the National Association of Charity Shops recognised Deal hospice shop as the single most profitable charity shop among 6,192 evaluated nationwide. This achievement highlights the incredible support from the community and the hard work of its volunteers and staff.
Volunteer Linda Jackson shared a cherished photograph from July 2003 featuring her mother, Peggy Shirley, alongside Joy Olive, Dorothy Cordell, and herself.
Deal volunteers: Peggy Shirley, Joy Olive, Dorothy Cordell and Linda Jackson
Mrs. Shirley was an original volunteer when the shop first opened in July 1984, and her legacy continues to inspire the current team.
Exciting new look and celebrations
Bex Carden and Jenny Byrne, Pilgrims Retail team
The shop closed temporarily for refurbishment work during summer 2024, with the team working hard to unveil a fresh, updated look.
It is set to re-open on Thursday 25 July 2024.
“We’re all very excited as we get ready to re-open the shop. We have wonderful new shop fittings that will help to showcase the many items that the community kindly donates to us,” said Bex.
“We are so incredibly grateful for the generous support of our donors and customers over the years. Thank you to each and every one.”
Bex, who transitioned from a teaching career to manage the shop, added:
“My role with Pilgrims is really enjoyable. I know that the work I do here, along with my colleagues and volunteers, is making a real difference to those in need of end-of-life care.”
To celebrate the 40th anniversary, the shop will host an afternoon tea and cake event for past and present volunteers and staff. This will be a wonderful opportunity to honour those who have been part of the Pilgrims shop community over the years.
Your continued support is crucial in helping Pilgrims Hospices provide vital care to patients and their families.
You can also find and follow our Deal shop on Facebook and Instagram.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the community and everyone involved in the shop’s success. We look forward to welcoming you back to our newly refurbished store and continuing our mission to support those in need of Pilgrims Hospices care, now and in the future.
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
22nd May 2024
Steven: “I’m privileged to work with incredibly awe-inspiring volunteers”
Steven Joseph from Ashford started volunteering at Pilgrims Hospices’ Hythe shop in 2021. The time he gives makes such a positive difference to people across east Kent who are in need of Pilgrims’ vital, compassionate care.
Steven shares what he enjoys about his role and encourages others to embrace volunteering.
Steven started volunteering because he wanted to give back to his local community and help others.
He said: “I’m privileged to work with incredibly awe-inspiring volunteers who are highly accomplished and show remarkable compassion, much witty humour and a rare elegance in their can-do work ethic, all while raising funds for Pilgrims.
“Volunteering in the Hythe shop helps to generate valuable income for the charity; my role includes serving customers, merchandising and sorting stock for sale.”
Volunteering for Pilgrims is very rewarding, whatever role you choose. The diversity of the volunteer team, with their many different experiences, benefits everyone involved – patients, families, staff and volunteers alike.
Steven
Joanne Mardle, Hythe Shop Manager, said: “Steven has been a great asset to our team; he is always willing to help in any way he can.”
Steven added: “Volunteering for Pilgrims is very rewarding, whatever role you choose. The diversity of the volunteer team, with their many different experiences, benefits everyone involved – patients, families, staff and volunteers alike.”
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.
