New Women’s Aid shop opens in Ballymena to support women and children affected by domestic abuse

Women’s Aid Retail Manager, Michelle McIlwrath , Director of Finance Karen McConkey and CEO, Gillian Robinson. (Images: Danielle Kernohan Photography)

A new Women’s Aid shop has opened in Ballymena, with every purchase helping to fund specialist support for women and children experiencing domestic abuse in the local area.

The new premises at 23–25 Henry Street are the third retail outlet operated by Women’s Aid ABCLN and will also provide a place where women can access information and support.

Shopping with a purpose

Open Monday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm, the Ballymena shop stocks new and nearly new women’s clothing and accessories, books, furniture and other items.

Women’s Aid says money raised through purchases will contribute directly towards its specialist services for women and children affected by domestic abuse.

CEO Gillian Robinson said:

“We are thrilled to be opening our new shop in Ballymena. It is a wonderful opportunity for the community to support our vital work with women and children, shop sustainably, purchase quality brands and help transform lives.”

She added:

“The support we have received has been incredible, and we look forward to welcoming everyone through our doors.”

The organisation operates across Antrim, Ballymena, Carrickfergus, Larne and Newtownabbey, providing confidential information and support as well as refuge accommodation for women and children affected by domestic abuse.

“Every purchase made will contribute directly to providing Women’s Aid’s specialist services and support for women and children experiencing domestic abuse here in Ballymena,” Gillian said.

“The shop will not only offer a unique retail experience, it will provide a safe place for all women to access information and support.”

Furniture donations wanted

The Henry Street opening expands Women’s Aid ABCLN’s retail operation beyond its existing shops in Larne and Antrim — and the larger Ballymena premises mean the charity can now stock furniture.

Retail Manager Michelle said:

“We are delighted to bring our third shop for Women’s Aid to Ballymena.

“With our first retail premises opened in Main Street, Larne and second boutique style shop located in Fountain Street, Antrim, these new premises in Henry Street, Ballymena give us the opportunity to stock furniture, and we are appealing to the public for donations of good quality furniture.”

That means local people can support the charity in several ways — by shopping, donating suitable furniture or giving their time as a volunteer.

Volunteers needed in Ballymena

Women’s Aid is also appealing for people who could spare a few hours each week to help operate the new shop.

“Volunteers will be essential to the shop’s sustainability and success,” Michelle said.

“If you would like to help out in the shop and volunteer for a few hours each week, we would love to hear from you.”

The Women’s Aid shop is at 23–25 Henry Street, Ballymena, BT43 3AA, and is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

Anyone interested in donating good-quality furniture, volunteering at the shop or finding out more can contact Women’s Aid ABCLN on 028 25 632136 or email shop@womensaidabcln.org.

Through the new Ballymena shop, everyday purchases, donated furniture and a few hours of volunteering can now directly help sustain services supporting women and children affected by domestic abuse across the local area.