Wiltshire charity FearFree plans to open its first retail superstore in Trowbridge in late September.

The charity is taking the huge former Argos store on the Gateway shopping complex opposite Asda in Bythesea Road.

It provides support for victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse, including those who are being stalked by strangers or someone they know.

FearFree Wiltshire says the new retail superstore will open in late September and will include a Sanctuary where people can seek help and advice.

Claire Marshall, the charity’s chief executive officer, said: “Opening our first-ever superstore is a pivotal moment for our charity and will help us to raise vital funds to continue our life-saving work.

“This impact will be widened through our in-store Sanctuary. With more people than ever needing our support, the Sanctuary will ensure that we can keep providing help to anyone that needs us.”

FearFree says the Sanctuary inside the superstore will provide a haven where people can safely access advice or support.

“The sanctuary is a safe environment where people can use our facilities to speak to our team without fear of being seen or heard or leaving a digital footprint. If required, one of our trained advocates can attend in person.

“The sanctuary is open to all genders and all ages. It is a walk-in facility with walk-in clinics planned –the dates for the clinic are to be confirmed.”

The Sanctuary will be open at the same times as the store opening, from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Saturday, and parking is available at The Gateway car park and The Shires car park.

Sarah Lauder, FearFree’s superstore manager, added: “Shopping at the FearFree Superstore is the perfect way to find some pre-loved bargains and do your bit to help local families.

“When you visit the store you’ll find unique items, save money, and shop more sustainability- what’s not to love?”

Debbie Marrison, shop volunteer, said: “The charity is something I am very interested in and as a local business I am glad to support. Nobody should have to live in fear. 

“Being able to help individuals to feel empowered to take the steps needed to feel safe and take control of their lives is something I am passionate about.“

The superstore is on local bus routes with the closest stop being at County Hall with regular routes from Bath, Westbury, Swindon Frome and Devizes.

The charity plans to sell a huge range of quality, pre-loved fashionwear for men, women and children, as well as homewares, toys and games, books, music and furniture.

FearFree added: “We are still looking for donations. The items we will receive will go towards helping us to continue to provide our life-changing support to local families.

“Some items will be made into ‘escape packages’ and given to people who have fled an abusive relationship, for example people who may have left their home without any of their belongings.”

FearFree is asking supporters to donate quality items on Saturday, September 14 between 9am and 4.30pm and on Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 9am and 4.30pm.

The charity said: “Please don’t leave items on the doorstep. If you can’t make these days or have large items, please contact us on admin@fearfree.org.uk.

“We’re also looking for retail volunteers to help run our shops – in both customer-facing and behind-the-scenes roles. Roles include customer service, till operators and stock processing.