Shop to sustain, save money, and change lives

Just like other retailers, charity shops were forced to close during lockdown and now face reopening in uncertain times with safety paramount. But of course the success of these shops is crucial to supporting and keeping alive some amazing causes which benefit everyone.

We have done very well for donations since we reopened, as have all other shops, as the public have decided to have a clear out.

While times have changed, charity shops have had to adapt to the needs of customers. We spoke to Bev Clarey, assistant manager at the Scope shop in Broadway, Letchworth, who told us that a clear pattern has emerged since July: “We have done very well for donations since we reopened, as have all other shops, as the public have decided to have a clear out. The big sellers at the moment are clothes, as time and again people tell us they are buying a new wardrobe since lockdown because they have put on weight and can’t get into their clothes.“

Despite this success, the shop has missed out on some reliable sales, with the loss of festivals and weddings meaning that cash for wellies, dresses, fascinators and anything else people buy for an event has not materialised.

Now open 9am - 5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am - 4pm on a Sunday, the shop is appealing for volunteers to help with a range of tasks. Those interested can pop in or call 01462 670759.

Local hospice, Garden House Hospice Care supports personalised and compassionate palliative end of life care for those in need following a diagnosis of a life limiting illness. Supporting a community of over 230,000 people in the Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire area. Like many charities, the hospice has taken a huge hit financially. In a year that marks their 30th anniversary, 2020 is a stark contrast to what they envisaged, as they estimate a loss of £1.3 million this year. Each year the hospice needs to raise almost £2 million direct from trading through its 12 charity shops and online outlets.

Carla Pilsworth the Director of Income Generation at the hospice said: “We have now been able to open our shops again to the public and we have received a wonderful amount of support, however the high street still remains challenging and income in our shops is down.

“We would really urge people to shop locally and visit your local Garden House Hospice shop to sustain local charity shops, or through services. Each item purchased in our charity shops, or through our online outlets really will make a difference to the lives of people who need the help of Garden House Hospice Care.”

Jane, who was furloughed from her job during lockdown used her free time to support the local charity at a time of need. Speaking about her experience she said:

“I have been cabin crew for 22 years with various airlines and at present I work for British Airways. I have been furloughed since April and as soon as the Garden House Hospice Care charity shops re-opened I went straight down to offer my help!

“I have a connection with this amazing place as my mum, Jean, used to be the manager at the Baldock shop. She sadly passed away at the hospice nearly seven years ago. I was so humbled by the amazing care she received by everyone there and now feel I can give something back as a thank you.

“Doing this has made such a difference to my wellbeing and being part of the community has made me very happy. I would definitely recommend volunteering for the hospice! I’ve met some amazing people and customers and will continue to work as many shifts as I can!”

Some recent Garden House Hospice stats:

- £17,000 raised from books sold online last year

- 444,373 items were sold in GHHC shops last year

- £199 was the highest winning bid on eBay page in June - for a metal detector

- 410 volunteers across 12 stores and the distribution centre

- £1,572,000 was raised by trading in 2018/19