Bold & Brave Gift And Charity Shops Officially Open

Young Somerset proudly marked the grand opening of its two new Bold & Brave charity gift shops in Taunton and Bridgwater with ribbon-cutting ceremonies that celebrated youth empowerment, creativity, and community collaboration.

In Taunton, the shop in Riverside Place was officially opened by The Mayor, Councillor Martin Straus, who was joined by Nik Harwood, CEO of Young Somerset, and a Bold & Brave intern Charley. The event drew a crowd of local supporters, business leaders, and community members, all eager to explore the new space and meet the young people behind the initiative.

Councillor Martin Straus, Mayor of Taunton said:

“I was delighted to attend the opening ceremony for the new Bold & Brave shop in Riverside Place. It’s truly fantastic that they have taken this opportunity to secure such a prominent and accessible position to showcase the great work that they do and their timing is fantastic! The shop is full of wonderful items, perfect for a spot of Christmas shopping. I’m so proud to have chosen Bold & Brave as my charity for this year, they do such valuable work, building up the confidence of the young people they support.”

Later that day in Bridgwater, Clinton Rogers, Deputy Lieutenant for Somerset cut the ribbon at the new Bold & Brave shop in Angel Place Shopping Centre. The event highlighted the importance of community support in creating opportunities for young people across Somerset.

Clinton Rogers, a Deputy Lieutenant for Somerset, said:

“It was a real honour to be here representing the Lord-Lieutenant, who in turn is the King's representative in Somerset.

His Majesty has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to providing opportunities for young people, so he would be thrilled to learn of this initiative.

Young Somerset continues to do great work in the county. Bold & Brave is a very apt name for this project. It will give huge opportunities for our young people, providing a wide range of skills.”

Nik Harwood, CEO of Young Somerset said:

“We’re incredibly proud of the young people who have helped bring Bold & Brave to life. These shops are more than retail spaces, they’re platforms for growth, confidence, and community.”

The Bold & Brave shops offer young people aged 14–25 hands-on experience in retail, hospitality, and entrepreneurship. From handmade products to barista training, the initiative provides real-world skills, mentoring, and a supportive environment for personal and professional development.

Visit Bold & Brave in Taunton or Bridgwater to shop local, support youth enterprise, and be part of a movement that’s changing lives.

Are you a local business or professional who could spare some time to inspire the next generation? Whether it’s sharing your career journey, offering a workplace tour, or delivering a workshop for Young People, then Young Somerset would love to hear from you.

Get in touch: [email protected]

For more information or to get involved, visit www.youngsomerset.org.uk.