H.U.G.S, the much-loved local charity shop on Chelsea Road in Bath, has reached an inspiring fundraising milestone, raising an extraordinary £350,000 to support patient care at the Royal United Hospitals Bath (RUH). This remarkable achievement is the result of years of dedication, teamwork and community spirit from the shop’s team, volunteers, donors and loyal customers.
Since 2013, H.U.G.S has supported Cancer Services at the RUH and their fundraising is currently helping RUHX’s campaign to bring a new PET‑CT scanner to the hospital. This state-of-the-art advanced diagnostic equipment will enable clinicians to detect conditions such as cancer and dementia earlier and with greater accuracy, helping patients receive vital answers more quickly.
Aurora and Marijka, shop managers say:
“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!””
Since 2013, HUGS has been a warm and welcoming presence on Chelsea Road — a place where volunteers give their time generously, donors contribute high quality items and shoppers know that every purchase makes a difference to their local community as well as the planet. The shop has become not only a fundraising powerhouse but also a hub of kindness and community connection.
One of the reasons a volunteer decides to give their time back:
“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 benefitted 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 says:
“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.”
You can find H.U.G.S Charity Shop at 16 Chelsea Road, Bath. In the shop you’ll find pre-loved, vintage and retro clothes, bric-a-brac and children’s items. All profits are donated to RUHX, the official charity of the Royal United Hospitals Bath.