Since the doors closed on The Berwickshire Association for Voluntary Service, following the formation of Borders Community Action, and we became Bavs (Berwickshire) Ltd, there’s one question we hear more than any other:
“So, what do you do now?”
It’s a fair question — and one we want to answer properly.
The simple answer? Almost everything we did before.
The transport service and third sector community support have moved on to other organisations, but Bavs is still very much here — working for Berwickshire, every single day.
Our charity shops in Duns, Coldstream and Eyemouth help reduce waste, keep good-quality essentials affordable and create meaningful volunteering opportunities where people can connect, build confidence and thrive. We’re proud to employ 10 local members of staff, and we’re committed to paying a fair Living Wage.
Our Bavs Reuse Hub in Chirnside prevents unwanted furniture and household items from going to landfill — finding new homes for pre-loved items while supporting our volunteers and the wider Berwickshire community.
And when you shop with us or donate? That support stays right here in Berwickshire. Profits are reinvested into our shops, our volunteers, and community projects like Better Connections, Better Community. We also support local groups and individuals with the financial boost they need to get a great idea off the ground — or keep a valued community activity going.
We know we need to do a better job of telling that story. So you’ll be seeing clearer messaging from us about who Bavs is today, what we do, and the difference your donations and purchases make.
Same local heart. A new chapter. Still supporting Berwickshire. 💛
