Rising costs hits Gloucestershire charity Longfield Community Hospice
Much-loved county charity becomes the latest to announce charity shops closures as spiralling costs and shift to online re-selling impacts its business plans.
The Longfield’s decision to close its Winchcombe store just over two years after opening it will surprise some, but it’s part of a growing number of charity shop closures in recent times.
The British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK, have been closing stores en mass UK-wide, blaming a change in shopping habits and rising costs including business rates and staff-related costs, not to mention the cost of living crisis facing consumers.
Longfield, which provides specialist hospice care and support for adults with life-limiting illnesses across Gloucestershire, said the decision was made following careful consideration as the charity responds to an increasingly challenging financial climate affecting charities and retailers alike.
A spokesperson told Raikes: “We entered a period of review last year against mounting financial challenges ranging from NI increases, a challenging financial climate which is evidently being felt not just in our sector but globally.
“An opportunity arose to review this shop presented by the lease break option.”
Both high street shops - the charity has another 20 of them - and online selling will “have roles to play in the wider income generation strategy for Longfield”.
Debbie Linton, head of retail for Longfield, said: “The shop is no longer financially viable, and continuing to operate it would place further pressure on Longfield’s resources.
“This has not been an easy decision, but it has been made with the long-term sustainability of Longfield in mind, and in light of the opportunity presented by the lease break option.
“We want to be very clear that this decision in no way reflects the tireless effort, commitment and dedication of our Winchcombe shop team.
“Our employees and volunteers have worked incredibly hard to support the shop and make it a welcoming and valued part of the community, and we are deeply grateful for everything they have contributed.”
Longfield is in consultation with its shop staff and exploring alternative opportunities for the charity’s valued volunteers.
Supporters wishing to continue helping Longfield are encouraged to visit one of the charity’s other shops to donate quality items, volunteer, or support the hospice through fundraising or donations.
The Winchcombe shop will remain open until 1st September.