North Devon Hospice's Furniture Shop, on Two Rivers Industrial Estate in Barnstaple, celebrated its first birthday this week. In that time, an incredible £195,000 has been raised for the charity. That’s enough to provide specialist care from the hospice in the homes of 500 local people, supporting them in the place they feel most comfortable as they face a life-limiting illness.
All kinds of homeware and furniture – both new and pre-loved – are available at the superstore on Braunton Road, and the range has clearly been a hit with the local community. Staff and volunteers gathered this week in celebration of all that has been achieved in the first year of opening.
Daren Ainscough, Head of Retail at North Devon Hospice, said: "We're absolutely overwhelmed by the support we've received from the local community. To raise £195,000 in our first year has exceeded all our expectations. This incredible amount will directly affect the lives of people we’re caring for right now. It will help our team of wonderful Community Nurse Specialists care for around 500 local patients in their own homes. That's 500 people who are facing a life-limiting illness like cancer, who will now have a specialist hospice nurse to be there with them, every step of the way."
Emma Stephenson, Manager of North Devon Hospice’s Furniture Shop, added: "It's been a whirlwind first year. The generosity of people in Barnstaple and across North Devon has been truly humbling. We’re grateful to have so many beautiful pieces of furniture donated, which we can give a second lease of life to, while giving our customers an absolute bargain. With each sale in the shop, we’re aware of the difference it’s making to those we care for. I'm so proud what’s been achieved just in this first year, and would like to pay special tribute to our amazing volunteer team who make it all possible."
Emma said that it was a combination of the range of furniture, the value on offer, and the convenience of the shop which has made it so popular. “I love watching people explore what we have on offer, because our range is so much more interesting than any other store, and they are very pleasantly surprised by the prices too.” she added. “Then, when they come to the till, they’re delighted to find out that we will deliver to their home, and can even collect any furniture they have to donate too. Combine this with our ample free parking right outside, and it’s easy to see why this place has become so many people’s new favourite shop!”
As well as cutting a celebratory cake, the birthday celebrations included a special raffle, with Nikki from Barnstaple winning a £100 voucher for the Furniture Shop, while Dave from Barnstaple won a £50 voucher for North Devon Hospice’s neighbouring Clothing Warehouse.
Dave, said: "We came in for a coffee table, which we got! A brilliant cause we’ve been supporting North Devon Hospice for years, I hope it all goes well in the future.”
The team behind the shop say that they are excited about the next chapter, and hope to welcome even more happy customers through the doors.
