Kate Bridges

Port which have enabled the charity to be almost 70% self-sufficient. Her efforts have raised almost £229,000 in 2022.

Kate started at Health Connections three-and-a-half years ago with its original shop on the Bridge.

Following its closure, the Coop generously allowed Health Connections to use one of its buildings, also on the Bridge. When that closed, it opened in Smith Street and then a year later opened their second shop in Market Square. From the outset of Kate’s involvement with Health Connections, she was adamant that sustainability should be a key building block of stock management.

‘The best way to manage climate change is to shop as ethically as you can and to keep in mind the longevity they have, and when you aren’t able to keep the item that you need you can always head to your local charity shop.

‘People come away with some surprises, watching people’s faces when they find something they didn’t expect to find is really special.

‘The untold story of donating comes from the donors and how important it is for their items to be cared for and to prolong their active and useful lives.

‘Think of the furniture your loved ones used and the clothes you remember them wearing. We try to look after them respectfully.’