New Women’s Aid shop opens in Ballymena with call for volunteers
The newly launched Women’s Aid shop in Ballymena
Monday 05 October 2026
Women’s Aid has officially opened a new shop in Ballymena, giving local people another way to support its work with women and children experiencing domestic abuse.
The new store at 23–25 Henry Street will sell new and nearly new women’s clothing and accessories alongside books, furniture and other donated items, with proceeds helping support the charity’s services.
New town centre shop
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, joined Women’s Aid for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the official opening.
Women’s Aid Shop Manager Michelle McIlwrath, The Mayor of Mid & East Antrim Thomas Gordon and Women’s Aid CEO, Gillian Robinson
The Mayor of Mid & East Antrim Thomas Gordon and Women’s Aid CEO Gillian Robinson
Mayor Gordon said:
“It is wonderful to see Women’s Aid open its new store in Ballymena. The vital services provided by this charity strongly complement the council’s commitment to raising awareness and tackling violence against women and girls.”
He added:
“The new shop will give local people an opportunity to support this work in a practical way, whether through shopping, donating or volunteering. Every contribution will help Women’s Aid deliver essential services to those who rely on them.”
The Ballymena shop expands the charity’s retail presence locally, alongside shops in Antrim and Larne.
Volunteers wanted in Ballymena
Paul Frew, MLA, Women’s Aid CEO Gillian Robinson and Robin Park
Women’s Aid CEO Gillian Robinson said the organisation was delighted to establish the new shop in the town and highlighted the importance volunteers will play in its success.
“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.
“Volunteers will be essential to the shop’s success. If you would like to help out and volunteer for a few hours each week, we would love to hear from you. The support we have received has been incredible, and we look forward to welcoming everyone through our doors.”
How to support the shop
Women’s Aid Director of Finance Karen McConkey, Robin Park and representative from Carniny Football Club
The Women’s Aid shop is open Monday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm at 23–25 Henry Street, Ballymena, BT43 3AA.
People can support the charity by shopping at the store, donating suitable items or volunteering a few hours of their time each week.
Anyone who would like more information about donating or volunteering with Women’s Aid ABCLN can call 028 25 632136 or email shop@womensaidabcln.org.
The new Ballymena store will provide an ongoing town-centre presence for the charity while allowing local people to contribute directly to its work through donations, volunteering and purchases.
