ReStore, a new sustainable shop at Lancaster University, celebrated its official opening on Monday, November 20, 2023, with a VIP event attended by the University’s Senior Leadership Team, staff members and the team from St John’s Hospice.

To mark its first month of opening, attendees gathered to celebrate a successful start to the partnership between Lancaster University, St John’s Hospice and Green Lancaster. In the first 3 weeks of operation, over 1600 items were sold.

Located in the heart of Alexandra Square next to Costa Coffee, the shop sells a range of items, including clothing, homewares, cycling equipment, eco-friendly toiletries and more. All the products are donated, upcycled, or sourced from ethical suppliers. Staff and students can also donate clean clothing, small homewares and shoes to ReStore in person during opening hours. This will then be resold by ReStore on behalf of St John's Hospice. The money raised will provide vital funds for the great work that St John's Hospice does in the local area.

On Monday 4 December, the shop will be hosting a Donation Day as part of Positive Change Week, where donations to the shop or charity are being encouraged. There will be a new donation unit inside the store, featuring sections to drop off clothing and homewares for ReStore, food and toiletry items for the LUSU Pantry foodbank and clean, preloved bras that will be donated to a breast cancer charity.

There will also be a late-night shopping event on Thursday 7 December, giving a chance to buy locally-sourced gifts and eco-friendly hampers for friends and family.

How to donate

Donations can be received between 11am - 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Before donating please check items as follows:

• Clothing must be clean
• Ensure items are in good condition, checking for any rips or holes
• Check pockets for any rubbish or personal items
• Ensure homeware or Bric-a-brac is fit for purpose and not broken
• Electrical items are not currently able to be accepted

All donated items will be received by a staff member who will sort through the items and get them ready for resale.

Please DO NOT leave donation bags outside the shop front when the shop is closed.

Donated clothes and accessories bring much-needed income to help fund the many St John’s Hospice services and support local palliative care.

Find out more

For more information about ReStore Lancaster, follow them on Instagram or their webpage.