Hospice launches online shop

With non-essential retail across the country closed, shoppers are turning to online outlets to get what they need and one local charity is hoping to cash in on this new demand.

Back in March, Prospect Hospice had to close all of its shops as the first lockdown began. Since then, all of their shops have been periodically closed and income for the charity, which provides end of life care to local people, has been hit hard. Early estimates indicate the closure of hospice shops so far could result in a loss of over £1million for the charity.

Victoria Canavan, head of retail said: “The closure of our shops is devastating, however, we’re never ones to dwell on things like this and have been looking at ways we can keep the money coming in.

“With our shops closed, we’ve got a vast amount of stock just sitting there that potentially could raise a lot of money for the hospice and we know they’re items that people really want so we needed to look at a way to make these available to those who want them and help raise the vital funds that are really needed right now to support people in our community.

“I’m therefore delighted to say that we now have our first online hospice shop live and available for people to purchase some wonderful pre-loved goods from, knowing that they’re helping to support the hospice with every purchase.”

The online hospice shop features a range of different items much like you would find in their high street stores including women’s fashion, menswear, items for the home, books and media and all items that have been generously donated by local people.

Ms Canavan continued: “As with our shops, we only have one of each item so, when it’s gone it’s gone so, if you see something you like, I’d advise that you snap it up quickly before someone else does.”

For a limited time, the hospice is offering free delivery on all items purchased from their site.

To visit the new Prospect Hospice online shop, click here.