Rowcroft Hospice is joining the nation in celebrating ‘More than a shop’ Week – the Charity Retail Association’s campaign that aims to raise awareness of the significance of charity shops and their multifaceted contributions to society.
Running between 22-29 April, ‘More than a shop’ Week draws attention to the fact that charity shops offer more than just a regular high street shopping experience; they play a meaningful role that delivers a range of charitable, social and environmental benefits to the local community and beyond.
“There are so many reasons to support the UK’s charity shops,” said Rowcroft’s Head of Retail Caroline Wannell. “Firstly, they are sustainability superstars, diverting a staggering 339,000 tonnes of clothing from landfills annually by providing a platform for reuse and recycling.
We’re championing environmental stewardship and paving the way for a greener future.
By donating your items or shopping for pre-loved goods, you’re helping to cut down on waste and you’re giving things a second chance to shine. “We’re all about sustainable style. With a wide range of pre-loved clothing and accessories, you can curate a wardrobe that’s as unique as you are – without breaking the bank or harming the planet.”
Beyond their environmental impact, charity shops serve as vibrant community hubs where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to connect and share stories.
“At the heart of our charity shops lies a spirit of inclusivity and community,”
continued Caroline Wannell. “Whether you’re a dedicated volunteer, a first-time customer, or someone who supports us through donations of high quality goods, you’ll always find a warm welcome and a sense of belonging. Our 15 shops and cafes are more than just retail spaces; they’re places that bring people together and build connections. So next time you’re out and about, pop in and say hello. We’d love to see you!”
In addition to their social and environmental contributions, charity shops play an important role as fundraisers for charitable causes. Each year, UK charity shops collectively raise over £300 million, providing essential funding for charities such as Rowcroft Hospice which rely on this income to deliver vital services to those in need.
“Our shops across South Devon, and our online shops at eBay, Vinted and Etsy, raise crucial funds to deliver end-of-life care to our local community,” added Caroline Wannell. “They provide a lifeline for countless individuals and families who are facing the hardest times imaginable. By shopping with us, our customers are not only finding great deals, they’re helping Rowcroft care for around 2,500 patients with life-limiting illnesses each year, and they’re making a tangible difference to the lives of local people.”
Moreover, charity shops contribute to the vibrancy of local high streets, attracting footfall and supporting neighbouring businesses. Their presence helps to create dynamic, thriving communities where everyone feels valued and included.
As ‘More than a shop’ Week unfolds, Rowcroft Hospice encourages everyone to show their support by donating, shopping, or volunteering at their local charity shops. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to building a brighter, more sustainable future for all. To find out more about Rowcroft’s shops, please go to www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk/shops
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About Rowcroft Hospice
It takes time, compassion, medical expertise and money to help patients and families make the most of every day, but every year Rowcroft Hospice helps around 2,500 people living with life-limiting illnesses in South Devon to do just that.
By providing comfort, support and specialist services, the hospice enables families to share precious and joyful moments when they are needed most – whether it’s a beautiful wedding, remarkable reunion, simple thank you or gentle cuddle.
From Dartmouth to Dawlish and up onto Dartmoor, Rowcroft cares for 80% of its patients in their own homes with a team of community nurse specialists, social workers, and bereavement volunteers. The team also provides occupational therapy, physiotherapy, complementary therapy, spiritual care and music therapy, delivering a holistic approach tailored to individual needs.
Day and night, Rowcroft’s award-winning Hospice at Home team provide free specialist support to patients at home in their last few of weeks of life. The team helps to monitor and manage symptoms to enable patients to be comfortable and also offers support for loved ones, enabling carers to take much needed breaks.
The service includes a dedicated telephone support line 24 hrs a day.In Rowcroft’s 12-bedded Inpatient Unit in Torquay, the hospice’s team provides specialist care for patients whose complex needs cannot be met at home. Along with high quality health and social care, we also offer delicious home cooked meals and access to our beautiful gardens. The welcoming and homely environment helps patients and families to make the most of precious time together.
Rowcroft is an independent charity with around 75% of its funding derived from the incredible generosity of local people. The hospice team fully acknowledges the current challenging economic climate and is grateful for the local community’s continued support through these tough times; every pound raised makes a real difference.
With an increasingly ageing local population, the demand for Rowcroft’s care has never been greater. The charity currently cares for around one in three people with life-limiting illnesses across South Devon and has ambitious plans to expand its care to reach more people.
For more information, please visit www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk
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