By timesecholife on in All News, Latest News
A charity shop in the Moorlands has closed its doors on a permanent basis to the coronavirus situation. The Age UK charity shop at 59 High Street in Cheadle has closed and a note of thanks to its customers has been placed on the door by staff – who are facing redundancy.
A charity shop in the Moorlands has closed its doors on a permanent basis to the coronavirus situation.
The Age UK charity shop at 59 High Street in Cheadle has closed and a note of thanks to its customers has been placed on the door by staff – who are facing redundancy.
All the displays, shelving and fixtures within the premises have been taken down, and only bags of donated items and ‘naked’ mannequins currently remain in the shop.
When contacted by the Times & Echo, a spokesman for Age UK said: “We can confirm that Age UK’s shop in Cheadle will not be reopening. Consultations with staff in affected shops are still ongoing.
“Unfortunately Age UK has taken the difficult decision to close a number of our charity shops on a permanent basis.
“We are taking this action with a heavy heart and are currently consulting with staff.”
A notice has been placed on the door of the shop. It reads: “Wendy, Dawn, Peter and all our lovely volunteers would like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to our loyal customers and friends for all the support over the years.”
An Age UK charity chief executive has also been reported as stating that the charity’s decision to close a number of its shops is due to the current coronavirus situation. They said: “We have been able to draw on some financial support from the National Emergencies Trust, via the local authorities and community foundations, and we are very grateful for the additional funding announced by the Chancellor.
“However, the reality is that, with so many charities needing help, the funding has been slow coming through at a time when revenue generation through our fundraising activities has stopped.
“Therefore, the only option we have is to look at reducing costs, and tough decisions are having to be faced to ensure we protect frontline services and give the charity a sustainable future.”
For those wishing to continue to support Age UK, visit www.ageuk.org.uk to find your nearest remaining store.
Meanwhile, the charity is also making an ‘emergency appeal’ on its website for donations. It states on the website’s homepage: “Emergency coronavirus appeal: please donate.
“Demand for our vital services is increasing rapidly.
“Please help us be there for older people who desperately need us during this crisis.”
Did you used to shop often at this charity shop? Share your thoughts on its closure with us by writing a Letter to the Editor. Email us at news@timesandecho.co.uk
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