Mind
Over 150 shops supporting better mental health for everyone
Mind was established in 1946 as the National Association for Mental Health (NAMH), at a time when mental illness was poorly understood, heavily stigmatised, and largely treated through long-term institutionalisation. The founders — a coalition of mental health professionals, former patients, and social reformers — believed that people experiencing mental illness deserved compassionate support and the opportunity to recover and live full lives in their communities.
The organisation adopted the name 'Mind' in 1972, and has since grown into England and Wales's leading mental health charity. Mind operates as a network of around 100 local Mind organisations, each working to meet the specific mental health needs of people in their communities. Together, the national and local Minds provide information, advice, crisis support, and advocacy for people experiencing mental health problems.
Mind operates over 150 charity shops across England and Wales. As with its wider structure, many of these shops are run by local Mind organisations, which means the income benefits the local community. Mind shops are known for being welcoming, thoughtfully presented, and frequently cited among the better charity shops for clothing and books.
Mind's retail income supports its information services, helpline, legal advice, and campaigning work to improve mental health care and challenge discrimination. The charity's work has been credited with helping shift public attitudes toward mental health in the UK — a cultural shift that has real consequences for the people who rely on Mind's services during periods of crisis or difficulty.
Mind relies on volunteers to run its shops. One regular session a week is typically all that's needed.
Volunteer with Mind ↗ Guide to charity shop volunteering →What can I donate to Mind?
Drop donations at any Mind shop. Because shops are run locally, check with your branch.
- Clothing & shoes
- Accessories & jewellery
- Books, CDs & DVDs
- Homeware & gifts
- Toys in good condition
- Large furniture
- Electrical appliances
- School uniforms
- Duvets & pillows
- Damaged goods
Mind — common questions
When was Mind founded and what was it originally called?
Mind was founded in 1946 as the National Association for Mental Health (NAMH). It adopted the name 'Mind' in 1972. The charity was established by mental health professionals and reformers who believed people experiencing mental illness deserved compassionate support and the opportunity to live in their communities rather than in institutions.
What does Mind do with money raised in its charity shops?
Mind's retail income funds its information services, helpline (0300 123 3393), legal advice line, crisis support, and campaigns to improve mental health care and challenge discrimination. Because many Mind shops are run by local Mind organisations, income often stays within the local community and supports services for people in that area.
What can I donate to a Mind charity shop?
Mind shops accept good-quality clothing, shoes, accessories, books, CDs, DVDs, homeware, jewellery, and gifts. Items should be clean and in good condition. Mind does not generally accept large furniture, electrical goods, school uniforms, duvets, pillows, or damaged items. Check with your local Mind shop if you are unsure.
Are Mind shops run nationally or locally?
Most Mind charity shops are run by local Mind organisations rather than the national charity. This means the money raised in a Mind shop generally benefits the mental health services in that specific community. There are around 100 local Mind organisations operating across England and Wales.
How do I find my nearest Mind charity shop?
Use the postcode or location search on this page to find Mind charity shops near you using live map data. You can also visit the Mind website at mind.org.uk to find local Mind organisations and their shops.
Does Mind have a helpline I can call?
Yes. Mind's Infoline can be reached on 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm). The Infoline provides information and signposting on mental health problems, treatment options, rights, and services. For crisis support outside those hours, Mind's website also lists crisis resources and the Samaritans (116 123, free, 24/7).
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