“Every day is Second Hand September” at Emmaus South Manchester

With the cost of living on the rise and online platforms and charity shops making it easier than ever to buy and sell pre-loved items, more people are turning to second hand.

Every September, Oxfam shines a spotlight on second-hand shopping through its Second Hand September campaign, which encourages people to choose pre-loved for 30 days.

As the campaign comes to a close, we spoke with Reuben Phillips, operations manager at Emmaus South Manchester.

He told us, at their social enterprise, “every day is Second Hand September”.

“It’s something we do all year round,” says Reuben. “It’s our bread and butter. 95% of what we sell is donated, second-hand stock.”

What is Emmaus?

Emmaus isn’t your average charity shop, and it’s not just a shop either. It’s part of a global movement that supports people out of homelessness by providing not only housing and support, but meaningful work and a sense of belonging.

Founded in France after the Second World War, Emmaus was created to help people rebuild their lives in the face of homelessness and poverty. The movement came to the UK in 1991, and there are now 30 communities across the country.

The South Manchester branch, based in Wythenshawe, opened in 2003 and has been making a big difference locally ever since.

“We’re more than a shop,” says the manager. “We create a community, offering support, dignity and purpose to people who need it most.”

A wonder emporium of second-hand treasures

Walking into the Emmaus Emporium feels more like discovering a treasure trove than entering a typical charity shop. That’s why they call it a ‘wonder emporium’.

You’ll find everything from clothing and shoes to toys and books, furniture and homeware to handmade crafts by local volunteers. There’s even the occasional designer gem, like a Nike sweater for a fiver.

“You can get amazing quality, often branded items, at affordable prices. It’s sustainable, budget-friendly, and supports a great cause. What’s not to love?” says Reuben.

Second hand isn’t always just a trend – sometimes, it’s a necessity

While many shoppers are embracing second hand for sustainability and savings, for others, it’s about survival.

Reuben recalls being approached recently by Children’s Services about a family in need: “The family had been moved to a new property and their teenage son was sleeping on the floor. So, a colleague and I looked through our storage containers and found a single bed and mattress. We delivered it the same day.

“It feels good to know that now that child's not sleeping on the floor.”

Emmaus is known for its acts of solidarity, giving away free school uniforms, clothing, shoes and even furniture to those in urgent need.

“Most charity shops aren’t set up to give items away,” says Reuben. “But we’re small, local and community-focused. We help where we can.”

Charity retail: a ‘triple win’

Reuben, who has worked in charity retail for many years, describes it as a “triple whammy”.

“You get that little retail hit, you’re keeping things out of landfill and your money goes to a cause, not a big corporation.”

And it’s no small impact. Thanks to Emmaus, tonnes of clothing, shoes and furniture are saved from landfill every year. The income helps fund vital services to support people out of homelessness and locals can buy high-quality goods at a fraction of the price of new.

Making connections

And Emmaus South Manchester isn’t just a place to shop, it’s a place to connect.

“We have regulars who queue up before we open,” Reuben shares. “For some, we’re the only human interaction they have all day.”

For volunteers who choose to help out at places like Emmaus, the experience can be truly transformational, offering not just the chance to give back, but to grow, connect and find purpose along the way.

“I once worked with a guy who was very shy. He was neurodivergent and all he did was tidy in the back. After a year of working together, he was working the till and making sales. He was so proud when he put through a big sale,” Reuben recounts. 

Plans for a residential community in Wythenshawe  

While Emmaus South Manchester doesn’t yet have its own residential community like the ones in Bolton and Salford, plans are in motion.

“It takes time”, says Reuben. “But the goal is to offer more than work. We want to provide a home, stability and a fresh start.”

The latest Understanding Society household research data showed that five million adults are facing financial, health and housing insecurity, levels of multi-stress not seen since the global financial crash.

With poverty and housing insecurity on the rise, Emmaus is working hard to challenge stereotypes around homelessness.

“It can happen to anyone”, Reuben says. “One bad break, a job loss, a family tragedy and suddenly, you’re on the edge. We don’t judge. We just help.”

Second hand, first choice

As Second Hand September comes to a close, it’s a great time to think about what second hand really means. As well as helping the planet and your wallet, it can also support your local community.

“For us, Second Hand September isn’t just a campaign”, says Reuben. “It’s every day. It’s what we do. And it changes lives.”

So next time you need a new outfit, a sofa, or just a feel-good browse, consider making Emmaus South Manchester your first stop.

Because one person’s donation could be another person’s fresh start.

To learn more or get involved, visit Emmaus South Manchester.