It was back in the spring that Barbara – our founder here at take good care – took the decision to leave Eastbourne behind and set up her permanent eco shop in Lewes.

The Needlemakers has quickly become a second home for Barbara and her range if sustainable, environmentally-friendly products.

And, after a busy summer, it’s about to get even busier and more and more people visit Lewes ahead of the Christmas rush.

For Barbara, it’s a chance to welcome even more new faces into the take good care community, to chat about all things wellbeing, and to hear fascinating stories from around the world.

“I’ve had lots of intreating people coming in to the shop since I moved here, not just from Lewes but from all over the world,” says Barbara.

“What I didn’t realise about the Needlemakers is that it’s a bit of a tourist attraction because there’s so much history in this building.

“People come to see the Needlemakers and Candlemakers as a historical site and then realise there are some amazing shops here too.”

take good care is not just an eco-friendly shop in Lewes but also a community hub, where people can pop in to chat to Barbara and while away the hours.

It’s this opportunity to speak to new people every day that keeps Barbara energised.

“What’s nice is that we’re getting lots of repeat customers who love what we do here at take good care,” she adds.

“People are coming back again and again. They’re not just coming back to buy stuff but also have a conversation! I’ve met so many interesting people over the past few months it’s been amazing.

“One lady I met worked in London for one of the councils, and helps people get adaptations in their homes for their disabilities. She was really lovely and because I’m disabled myself and have a wet room at home, we ended up having a really long chat about how important her work is.

“Having a disability and working at the same time, especially when the disability is not visible, is really challenging.

“But it’s being able to speak to people like this, and everyone else who comes into the shop, that makes owning a sustainable shop in Lewes so rewarding.”

Barbara’s shop in the Needlemakers is open 10am-5pm every day (10am-4pm Sundays) and everyone is welcome to pop in, even if it’s just for a chat!