Winners of the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards to be decided by a public vote

Salvation Army Gorseinon donation centre and Edinburgh Earl Grey charity shop have been shortlisted for the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards for Wales. The winner will now be decided by a public vote which is now open.

The Awards, run by the Charity Retail Association, are now in their second year and are a celebration of the impact that charity shops have within their local communities. For many, charity shops are more than a place to pick up a second-hand bargain - they are community hubs that employ local people, help volunteers find friendship, and offer support to those with first-hand experience of the causes they support.

(On the left: Gorseinon donation centre team. On the right: Earl Grey charity shop team).

More than 5,000 nominations were received this year and as part of the process, people were asked to share why they were nominating their favourite shop.

When asked what makes Gorseinon donation centre so special, members of the public said: “They really care for the community, their staff and volunteers. Lots of fun events, special days, repair café, food bank etc. Preloved furniture at great prices. Entertaining on social media.”

“The staff just make you smile and laugh – they absolutely love their jobs (and their customers), the prices are better than a car boot sale and I now follow them on social media because it's too good a place to miss – absolutely amazing shop.”

Members of the public also shared some positive feedback about the Early Grey charity shop: “The vibe in this shop is always so upbeat and welcoming whether you are there to shop, looking for help or just to say hello. Everyone is greeted with respect and welcomed like an old friend.”

“Best charity shop in Edinburgh! Always loads of new items, well laid out and merchandised, and the friendliest helpful staff always dancing and singing no matter how busy it is.”

(On the left: Gorseinon donation centre team members. On the right: Earl Grey charity shop team members).

Gareth Carnegie, Gorseinon donation centre manager said: “We are incredibly proud to be nominated. This recognition reflects not only the vital services we are able to provide, but also the warm and welcoming atmosphere our team works so hard to create every day. None of this would be possible without the continued generosity of our donors and the loyalty of our wonderful customers. This nomination belongs to all of us – staff, volunteers, donors, and supporters – who make our shop such a special place and of course me for picking the music.”

Margaret Rouzet, Edinburgh Earl Grey charity shop manager said: “Thank you so much, we are absolutely delighted!!  We are now more determined than ever to win the whole competition, not only for us but for every Salvation Army shop out there whose staff and volunteers put so much work and dedication into every day.”

Robin Osterley OBE, Chief Executive of the Charity Retail Association, said: “Congratulations to all the shops that made the shortlist and thank you to everyone who made a nomination. The level of support the Awards continue to inspire highlights just how much charity shops mean to their local communities. We are now calling on the public to cast their votes and decide which shops will be crowned winners in 12 areas across the UK.”

People can now vote for their favourite shop here.

Voting closes at midnight on 2 October. To see all the shortlisted shops and for more details about the Awards, click here.

You can also follow our Facebook page to keep up to date with the latest information on our stores: Salvation Army Charity Shops.