Tewkesbury welcomes a new charity shop

National Star’s charity shops are growing, with the opening of our first superstore in Tewkesbury and a new city centre shop in Gloucester.

Charity shops raise vital funds for National Star. Every purchase made and every donation received directly supports young people with complex disabilities to achieve their aspirations and live more independent lives.

Students Grace and Chris cut the ribbon for our grand opening of our new charity superstore and donation centre in Tewkesbury, which was proudly supported by the local community. Since opening, everyone has embraced the shop, browsed the rails, and dropped off donations. From stylish pre-loved clothing and bestselling novels to toys and home accessories, there truly is something for
everyone. Whether you are hunting for a hidden gem or shopping sustainably, our stores offer a vibrant, welcoming space to explore.

Our Tewkesbury shop also offers student placements, giving National Star students hands-on experience of working in a real retail environment. This will allow them to build confidence in how they communicate,
develop valuable transferable skills, and prepare for work when they leave college. It is more than just a shop; it is a stepping stone towards greater independence and opportunity.

Chris is one of nine students and six former students currently volunteering in the new shop. He is trialling a new project to sell donated books to make more money for the charity and save them from being recycled. Chris is so committed to the work placement that he even comes in during college holidays.

‘To give the students the opportunity to build up their confidence and to add to their CV is the most rewarding part of our job,’ said Joanne Morton, manager of the Tewkesbury shop. ‘It’s a privilege to help Chris and others on to the next part of their journey.’

Student Chris said: ‘I enjoy working in the National Star charity shop and I was privileged that they asked me to be part of the grand opening.’

Our new shops are located:

National Star, Oldbury Road, Tewkesbury, GL20 5LZ

National Star, 23a St Aldate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1RU

If you would like to volunteer at one of our charity shops across Gloucestershire and Herefordshire, we would love to hear from you. Your time and support can make a real difference. Together, through shopping, donating and volunteering, we can continue to empower young people to achieve their ambitions.