Lichfield locals share the real value of charity shops in support of St Giles Hospice
The people of Lichfield have shared what charity shops really mean to them as the Charity Retail Association celebrates its ‘More than a shop’ campaign this week.
Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
From bargain hunters to regular donors, residents shared stories that revealed just how vital these high street hubs are to the community.
“I've always been really keen on charity shops wherever I go, for example, if it’s a new town, I'll always suss the charity shops out,” said Lynne, a regular visitor to St Giles Hospice’s Tamworth Street charity shop.
“I’ve just moved into a new place, so being able to use the St Giles Hospice furniture shop has been fantastic for finding good quality, affordable furniture,” added Steven, who had just recently bought his first home.
“Charity shops are so cool – you can always find pieces in there which you can’t find anywhere else. I’d love it if someone bought me a gift from a charity shop – I get most of my clothes from them!” said Bella, a local college student.
These stories reflect the central message of the campaign: a charity shop is no regular high street shopping experience – it is so much more.
St Giles Hospice operates 23 shops across the region, with three in the Lichfield area alone. Each plays a crucial role in raising vital funds to support local people, and their loved ones, living with a terminal illness.
Between April 2023 to March 2024, St Giles’ charity shop volunteers and staff processed a staggering 441,198 transactions through the tills and sorted through 812,857 bags of donated stock - a testament to the generosity of the local community. With an incredible net profit of £556,773 in 2023-2024, St Giles’ charity shops are a vital source of income for the hospice.
As the cost of living continues to challenge households, charity shops are increasingly valued not just as sustainable shopping options, but as critical support for those needing quality items at affordable prices.
To find your nearest St Giles Hospice shop, visit: stgileshospice.com
