Since opening in June 2025, our Ongar shop has been steadily finding its place in the heart of the local community – fostering connections between staff and customers, helping people discover great finds, and creating a friendly, accessible space for all.
Julie, one of the dedicated volunteers at the Ongar shop, shares her experience of working there and the impact it’s had:
What inspired you to volunteer at the St Clare Hospice Ongar Shop?
‘I was previously working at the St Clare Hospice Harlow shop, where I’d been since 2013. I used to have to drive there, but once I heard a local shop was opening, I knew I wanted to work here, be part of the team, and support my town. I do two shifts here – a Thursday morning and a Monday afternoon, but I’m also more than happy to do extra cover.’
What’s your favourite part of the day working here?
‘When I arrive, I enjoy taking a look at what needs sorting and what tasks need doing. Charlie [Ongar Shop Manager] lets us know what’s most important – whether it’s tagging, steaming, or getting clothes ready – because the sorting area here is quite small, as you might’ve seen.
‘I’m happy to do anything, but I especially enjoy working with books. I used to do that a lot at the Harlow shop – that was my baby so to speak. I love sorting books, but I also enjoy pricing, sorting bags, or whatever’s needed.
‘It’s also nice that a lot of people who come in, I know, because I live here. And many of the volunteers are familiar faces too. A couple are mums I knew from school. It’s a real community feel.
‘Sometimes it’s busy, and other times it’s quieter. I think people are still discovering us. But we took £500 the other day, which was amazing!’
How has the community reacted to the new shop?
‘People often come in and say, “I’m so glad I found you.” Some even come in daily to see what new items have come in.
‘A couple of weeks ago, a lady came in whose husband had recently died. She was using a small wheelchair, so we helped her get inside and set out a chair for her to rest. She sat for a little while, and then we found a walking stick out the back to help her move around. She walked slowly and did a bit of shopping. It was such a lovely moment – it really made her day, and it made mine too, just being able to help.
‘We get people of all ages coming in. Over the holidays, quite a few school children visited, and we’ve had so many positive comments. People say things like, “We really needed a charity shop in the town.” It’s clear the community is happy we’re here.’
What items do you like in the shop right now?
‘To be honest, I like everything here. I really appreciate how well everything is displayed – the colour coding of the clothes, the way the shoes and bags are arranged – it all looks great. I also love how the mannequins are dressed; the ladies who do that (I don’t get involved with that part) make them look so inviting.
‘I’ve bought a few bits myself and donated as well, which feels good!’
Is there anything you remember someone buying that they really loved?
‘Yes, just last week actually. I was on the till when a lady came in and bought some books for her grandchildren. I’m really passionate about books, so it was lovely to see. Most of them were just 50p, with a few priced at £1 or £2, and she was so happy with the selection. As she was paying, I mentioned I had more books out the back that hadn’t been processed yet, so I brought out a box for her to look through and she ended up buying a few more.
‘Another moment that stood out was when a young woman came in and bought lots of bric-a-brac – glasses, little pots, and other bits. I joked, “Are you having a party?” and she said, “Actually, yes!” She’d just moved to the area and was having a friend over for a little get-together. She found some lovely glasses for just £1 each and was really pleased. It’s moments like those that make working here so rewarding.’
Do you think the charity shop is making a difference locally?
‘I think it’s made a real impact. People can now donate locally and come in to learn more about St Clare Hospice, whereas before they might’ve had to travel to one of the other shops. It’s also become a place where people see familiar faces and connect with others in the community. The building itself is lovely from the front, and I think we’ve made great use of the space.
‘Charity shops are brilliant for recycling and reusing, but I’d especially encourage people to support St Clare Hospice because of the vital funds we need to keep it running. Every donation really does make a difference. There are so many costs involved in running the hospice, and when someone buys a coat for £10, that £10 goes directly to St Clare. You know exactly where your money is going and that’s important.’
Want to know more about our Ongar shop? Click here or call 01277 287799.
Thinking about volunteering? Click here or call us on 01279 773700 to find out how you can get involved.