Say HELLO to our Hartlepool Shop

Our Hartlepool shop is based at 168 York Road and is one of the busiest areas in the town centre. We opened the shop in early 2020, becoming the fifth Stray Aid charity shop in the North East. Sadly, we had to close soon opening due to COVID-19 restrictions. But since reopening we now have many regular customers and several first-time visitors who often compliment us on the neat and tidy boutique-style layout and thank us for our friendly, helpful service.

We are open 10-3pm Monday to Friday and 11-2pm on a Saturday and don’t forget we are dog-friendly so feel free to pop in and shop with your fur-companion. We asked volunteer Billy to tell us more about the shop and its team of volunteers, one of which is his 14 year old Jack Russell terrier called Albert.

Q1. what’s your favourite thing about volunteering at our charity shop?

“Without doubt its the dogs I get to meet and play with! With permission of the owner, we also take a few photos and upload to our social media pages”

Q2. what’s the most exciting donation you’ve ever received?

“A cheque for £150 donated by Jill Couchman in memory of her fiancé Danny Schurmer who sadly pass away this Summer. Jill wanted us to know how much Danny loved animal but in particular dogs. Such acts of kindness are an inspiration to us all”

Q3. what are the greatest challenges?

“We only have small premises so its tough to find room for all the generous donations, but still keep the shop looking uncluttered and stylish”

Q4. whats next for the shop?

“We would like to thank Gillian Doughty who recently moved away from the Hartlepool area for setting up the shop when it first opened and put her heart and soul into the presentation. So moving forward we need to build on the success she created so we have recently been able to open on a Saturday due to the recent uptake of more volunteers”

Q5. Why volunteer for Stray Aid?

“Its a unique opportunity to raise vital funds for the dogs and cats in the north east who need us most. Its lovely to meet likeminded volunteers and customers, but as I have a love of dogs in particular, ill carry on as long as possible. If I can do it, anyone can!”

So with the help and support of our team of Hartlepool volunteers, our lovely shop goes from strength to strength as it establishes itself in the heart of the town. Its certainly been a turbulent year for Hartlepool  shop but it has a very strong sense of purpose and direction.