Prospect Hospice is preparing to expand its presence into Watchfield with plans for a new charity shop — and is now appealing for local volunteers to help get the venture off the ground.
The hospice, which provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care across Swindon, north-east Wiltshire and neighbouring counties, says the new outlet will become its first retail base in the area.
Since 2024, Prospect Hospice has supported 272 patients and families across the SN6 and SN7 postcode areas, with the planned shop aimed at strengthening links with the local community while raising vital funds for hospice services.
While the final location and opening date have yet to be announced, recruitment for volunteers and staff has already begun ahead of the launch.
Stuart Necrews said the organisation was excited to establish a permanent presence in Watchfield.
“We’re really excited about the opportunity to open a shop in Watchfield and become part of the local community in a new way,” he said.
“We already support patients and families in and around Watchfield, and this is a natural next step for us.”
He added that Prospect’s shops played an important role beyond fundraising alone.
“Our shops are about more than just raising funds, they’re places where people come together, connect and feel part of something local.”
Like many charities, Prospect Hospice relies heavily on retail income and volunteer support to help fund its services.
Necrews said volunteers remained central to the success of every hospice shop.
“They bring energy, personality and a real sense of community — and quite simply, we couldn’t operate our shops without them,” he said.
The hospice says there will be opportunities for people able to give just a few hours of their time, as well as those looking for more regular volunteering roles.
Once open, the Watchfield shop will also depend on donations of quality second-hand items from local residents.
