‘Unsellable donations’ cost Isabel Hospice £42,000 a year to dispose of

Isabel Hospice spends £42,000 a year disposing of unsellable donations.

The charity said such costs were a sector-wide issue and highlight the importance of receiving “thoughtful and considered” donations from the public.

The hospice, which provides palliative care and support to patients and their families in Bishop’s Stortford and surrounding eastern Hertfordshire, has been setting the record straight about its charity shops.

The good cause needs to raise £7 million a year to fund its free services and relies heavily on income generated from its 17 high street outlets. It has two stores in Bishop’s Stortford – in South Street and Bridge Street – and one in Sawbridgeworth.

Myth #1: Charity shops get free units from landlords to fill space

A common misconception is that charity shops are provided with free or discounted spaces by the council just to fill empty units on the high street. In reality, Isabel Hospice pays the same rent as any other tenant.

The charity employs shop managers, supported by a team of volunteers, and has to cover operational costs including rent, utilities and other bills just like any other business. Charities are eligible for a discount on business rates, however the amount can vary between local authorities.

Myth #2: Charity shops are filled with old rubbish

Isabel Hospice takes pride in offering only quality donations, with a thorough vetting process in place to ensure that only the best items make it onto the shop floor.

Each garment is inspected for stains, damage and faults. Used electrical items are PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) tested and games and puzzles are checked before sale.

Myth #3: Everything in charity shops is cheap

While charity shops are often thought of as being “cheap”, profits fund free palliative care. Every £5 raised could fund a patient’s nutritious meal, every £28 pays for one nursing hour and so pricing reflects that mission.

Charity shops owe it to donors and their cause to get the maximum value out of stock.

To help provide a wide range of prices, Isabel Hospice has three dedicated clearance outlets in Hatfield, Hoddesdon and Waltham Cross and sells budget-friendly items priced £3 or under.

The South Street shop in Stortford also has a permanent clearance section while the charity sells high-end, designer pieces in its Galleria Hatfield and Welwyn Village shops.

Myth #4: Everything in charity shops is second-hand

Many donations are brand new, with tags still attached – whether from a singular donor or through job-lot donations from large retailers.

Charlotte Greenwood, Isabel’s head of retail and marketing, said: “If you’ve never been to one of our shops or actively avoid charity shops altogether, we urge you to pop in and browse next time you pass.

“We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the vast range, quality and value of the items for sale. Our stock turnover is fast, so there’s always something new to discover on every visit.

“Our Bridge Street branch was established over 30 years ago and is one of only a handful of shops with such a long history in the town, and our South Street shop is due to mark its first anniversary next month, so watch this space.”

Charlotte added: “Come in and explore the treasure trove that is Isabel Hospice charity shops – let’s see if we can change your mind and help you find something you love!”

The charity also sells on eBay (@IsabelHospiceShop) and Vinted (@IsabelHospice2024).