A charity shop on Chelsea Road has raised a huge sum to support the work at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, hitting an impressive £350,000 in donations.
Volunteers at the H.U.G.S charity shop on Chelsea Road
H.U.G.S, which has become a fixture of the local community since opening in 2013, has spent more than a decade fundraising for Cancer Services at the RUH.
Its latest efforts are supporting RUHX’s campaign to bring a new PET-CT scanner to the hospital – advanced diagnostic equipment that will help doctors spot conditions such as cancer and dementia earlier and more accurately, so patients receive answers and treatment sooner.
Shop managers Aurora and Marijka said the sense of connection is at the heart of H.U.G.S’ success.
They said: “We find that people love to shop at H.U.G.S because it’s a space that connects us all in one way or another.
“Not only are items and clothes donated and shared, but stories and experiences too. We are all connected to the RUH and people love to give what they can to help.
“So, from clothes to bric-a-brac, please feel free to pop in! Quality donations are always welcome – especially clothing and accessories from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s!”
The shop has built a reputation not just as a place to grab pre-loved and vintage bargains, but as a community hub. Volunteers give their time on the shop floor, donors bring high-quality items, and regular customers know every purchase supports patients and families, as well as cutting waste.
One volunteer said their own experience as a patient motivated them to join the team: “I joined H.U.G.S because after having spent a long time in the RUH as a patient, I wanted to give something back.
“There’s a huge sense of community at H.U.G.S with so many locals visiting each day. It’s a great place to socialise and chat to wonderful people.
“I have benefited from the work of the wonderful nurses and doctors at the RUH and I am happy that I can do my part in supporting them back.”
Laura Snell, Events & Community Manager at RUHX, praised the shop’s long-term commitment.
She said: “We are beyond grateful to the team at H.U.G.S Charity Shop and their customers. Every donated item sorted, every visitor helped and every shift covered helps us go further to give every patient the extra extraordinary care they deserve.
“Reaching £350,000 is an extraordinary achievement and shows the level of passion and commitment of everyone involved.
“Their hard work will have a lasting impact on patients and families in Bath and beyond.”
