Northern Ireland Hospice celebrates return to Ballymena with new charity shop

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman William McCaughey cutting the ribbon at the official opening of the new Ballymena shop

Northern Ireland Hospice has proudly reopened its presence in Ballymena with the launch of a brand-new charity shop on Wellington Street, marking a significant and warmly welcomed return to the town.

The shop was officially opened by the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman William McCaughey, who cut the ceremonial ribbon and welcomed the first visitors through the doors.

The event marks a new chapter in the Hospice’s ongoing mission to deliver compassionate, high-quality palliative care services across Northern Ireland.

The first customer is served at the new Ballymena Hospice NI shop

The local retail team

“For some time we’ve been eager to return to retailing in Ballymena, and finding the perfect location was key,” said Alan Kennedy, Head of Retail at Northern Ireland Hospice.

“Being right in the heart of the town makes it easy for local supporters to visit, whether to shop, donate, or simply stop by. Every visit helps us raise vital funds for local families who rely on our specialist palliative care services.”

The newly opened shop, located at 51-63 Wellington Street, has been designed to offer a bright, modern and welcoming shopping experience. The store features an array of pre-loved fashion, unique homewares, and one-of-a-kind treasures, all promoting the ethos of sustainable shopping.

Marie Reynolds chatting with Mayor, Alderman William McCaughey

Shop Manager Emma Caughey described the store as a place where the community can come together to make a real difference:

“Our Ballymena shop has been thoughtfully designed to provide a welcoming and modern shopping experience. The bright, fresh space is filled with pre-loved fashion, unique homewares, and hidden gems. It’s all about sustainable shopping that benefits both the environment and the essential Hospice services we provide.”

Alan added:

“Hospice relies on community support for the majority of its funding, and thanks to the amazing dedication and tireless hard work of our Ballymena Hospice Support Group, a strong level of support from local people in the area has continued over the years, which has enabled Hospice to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable people here.

Inside the new NI Hospice Shop in Ballymena

“We are confident that the local community will really see the benefits of also getting behind our new shop too.”

The need for such support remains as vital as ever. Over the past year alone, Northern Ireland Hospice has cared for 428 adults from the Ballymena area, both in their homes and at Somerton House, its In-Patient Unit.

In addition, 31 local children and their families received specialist support through Horizon House, the Children’s Hospice, spending a combined 204 nights in the facility.

Beyond donations and purchases, the Hospice is also appealing for more local volunteers to get involved.

“The shop’s success is driven by our incredible team of local volunteers, they are the heart of everything we do,” said Emma. “We’re currently looking for more helping hands to join us. If you have a few hours to spare each week, we’d love to hear from you.”

Members of the Ballymena NI Hospice Support Group

For those looking to support, the shop is currently accepting donations of quality, unwanted items. Locals are encouraged to consider the Ballymena shop when clearing out wardrobes or homes.

For more information on how to donate goods or become a volunteer, visit nihospice.org/shopvolunteers or call 028 9078 4704.