We hear that three local charity shops are shortly to close: Barnardo’s, Princess Alice Hospice and Shelter.

Barnardo’s has had a local presence for over 40 years. Princess Alice Hospice is closing on 7 March 2025. Shelter??

So the closure of three local shops raises questions as to why?

Is it that they are not financially viable? There are many of them – almost as many as coffee shops! But we all have our favourites and to date it seems that they have at least been breaking even. Surely that is all they need to do since their high street presence is in itself an important aspect of their work. Plus they ensure recycling of useful goods which might otherwise be overloading the dump.

Is it that the shops are being threatened with pressure from their landlords, either to vacate or to pay more rent? We should be told!

Further investigation needs to be done, but meanwhile if readers have any insights please communicate.