As Secondhand September gets underway, a local group supporting vulnerable women is encouraging residents to clear out their wardrobes and shop sustainably to support a good cause.

The Esther Project, which now operates a pre-loved shop on Gloucester Street, revealed that nearly 7,500 items have been re-homed in the first half of 2026 alone. Since opening its doors last December, the site has quickly evolved from a simple secondhand storefront into a cornerstone for local outreach.

"One bag of clothes can do a surprising amount of good," said Lisa Nicolle of The Esther Project.

For those who don't know much about the work done at the Esther Project, the shop may seem like an ordinary charity shop on the surface.

However, the shop serves as much more, offering a safe and comfortable environment for the Esther ladies and passersby.

It is also an extension of the Community Interest Company (CIC) that manages Esther House, a seven-bed supported living facility. Far beyond retail, the site functions as an open, welcoming women's hub.

One of those is Fiona Moon, who has been involved in the project since it opened. She looks forward to her weekly shift in the shop and also offers ongoing admin support.

She shared: "I have always wanted to give back to a local cause and make a difference to others. The Esther project supports vulnerable women at various stages of their journey due to trauma, through to recovery and independent living. It is a joy to see the difference that mine and other volunteers' time and effort makes to ladies who are each on their journey of recovery.

"The shop is a great vehicle to make a difference. The days are hugely varied and you never stop learning. You could be talking to our general customers and donors about the project and how their generosity makes a difference, talking to the community police that come into the shop regularly to check up on ladies they know of in the local area, supporting the women that come into the shop with needs and helping to create a calm nurturing environment for the Esther ladies to feel supported and valued. Being part of an organisation that makes such a difference is both rewarding and humbling."

Fiona added: "I always tell people thinking of volunteering, whatever your skills or motivation, if you have the time to give, it really does make a difference and that it is such a rewarding thing to do. You meet great like-minded women who inspire and become part of a small community of women who make a difference to the ladies that are given another chance at life."

Behind the store are dedicated rooms where private counselling sessions take place in a gentle, relaxed setting. There is strictly no pressure to sign up for support; anyone in need is encouraged simply to step in, speak to the friendly volunteers over a warm cup of tea, and talk through whatever is on their mind.

The space provides vital relief for women across the community who have endured challenging life events to severe trauma, including survivors of domestic abuse.

Volunteers Fiona and Angie welcomed Nub News this week to highlight the vital space the Esther team have cultivated.

Fiona explained that every volunteer undergoes specialised training, ensuring anyone stepping through the door meets with informed, compassionate, and judgment-free care.

A tour of the boutique revealed thoughtful touches throughout, from carefully curated decor to neatly colour-coordinated rails. The shelves are stocked with a diverse mix of quality labels, including pieces from The White Company, Seasalt Cornwall, and high-street favourites, with many brand-new with original tags attached, yet priced at under £6.

Attention to detail shines right down to the mannequins, styled thoughtfully from head to toe with coordinated accessories.

With Secondhand September now underway, the team hopes the mix of budget-friendly fashion, style, and tangible community support will draw more locals through the doors this autumn.

The Esther shop at 12 Gloucester Street, is open between 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturdays with late-night opening on a Wednesday to 6pm.

Women can self-refer to The Esther Project via this link.