Here we take the opportunity to set the record straight about some common misconceptions surrounding charity shops including our own.
At Isabel Hospice, we are dedicated to providing compassionate palliative care and support to patients and their families across eastern Hertfordshire.
With a mission to raise £7 million annually to fund vital services, Isabel Hospice relies heavily on the funds generated from our 17 high street shops, but sadly a proportion of the shopping community still carry inaccurate views of what charity shops are really like.
Here we take the opportunity to set the record straight about some common misconceptions surrounding charity shops including our own.
Myth #1: Charity Shops Get Free Units from Landlords to Fill Empty Space
A common myth is that charity shops are provided with free or discounted space by landlords or the council just to fill vacant units on the high street. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Like any other business, we pay the same rent as other tenants. We employ skilled shop managers, supported by a fantastic team of volunteers, and we have to cover operational costs such as rent, utilities, and bills—just like any other retailer. While we do receive a discount on business rates, it varies depending on the local authority.
You might have noticed that we have several shops in the same town—like Bishop’s Stortford, Welwyn Garden City, Hoddesdon, and Hatfield—and there’s a good reason for that. Because every item in a charity shop is unique, offering customers a distinctive shopping experience with each visit. Having more shops increases the selection of one-of-a-kind, pre-loved items and gives the community more opportunities to support Isabel Hospice.
Myth #2: Charity Shops Are Filled with Old, Worn-Out Stuff
Another misconception we often hear is that charity shops are full of old, smelly, or worn-out items. That’s definitely not the case at Isabel Hospice. We take great pride in the quality of the items we sell. Every donation is carefully vetted by our brilliant team, and only the best items make it to the shop floor. We inspect clothing for stains or damage, PAT test electrical items, and ensure that all games and puzzles are complete before they go on sale.
Unfortunately we do have to spend around £42,000 a year disposing of unsaleable donations, a sector-wide issue not unique to our charity alone. But this highlights the importance of donating thoughtfully. When donating, we encourage everyone to think about whether the items are in good enough condition to be reused or passed on. This helps us keep our shops stocked with only the best items, ensuring a great shopping experience for everyone.
Myth #3: Everything in Charity Shops is Cheap
It’s a common belief that charity shops only offer super-cheap items. While it’s true that charity shops are often seen as budget-friendly, we want to remind people that the proceeds from every item sold in an Isabel Hospice shop goes directly towards funding our palliative care services.
For example, £5 could provide a patient with a nutritious meal, and £28 could fund one hour of nursing care. Our pricing reflects the fact that we are a charity, and the items you buy are helping fund crucial services for people during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
We also recognize the generosity of our donors. Many people donate valuable or personal items because they believe in our mission, so it’s important that we get the maximum value from every donation. To make sure there’s something for everyone, we offer a range of prices across our shops. For example, our Isabel Hospice Clearance outlets in Hatfield, Hoddesdon, and Waltham Cross offer budget-friendly items priced £3 or under. Meanwhile, our Galleria and Welwyn Village shops carry high-end designer pieces for those looking for something a little more luxurious.
Myth #4: Everything in Charity Shops is Second-Hand
It’s a misconception that charity shops only sell second-hand items. In reality, many of the donations we receive are brand new, often with tags still attached. These come from generous individual donors, as well as job-lot donations from large retailers. If you haven’t checked out one of our shops yet, we highly recommend having a proper rummage!
As Charlotte Greenwood, our Head of Retail and Marketing, says: “If you’ve never been to one of our shops or if you’ve actively avoided charity shops, we encourage you to pop in and browse next time you pass. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the quality and variety of the items we have. Our stock turnover is fast, so there’s always something new to discover every time you visit. Come and explore the treasure trove that is Isabel Hospice charity shops—we’re sure you’ll find something you love!”
To find your nearest Isabel Hospice shop, visit our website at www.isabelhospice.org.uk/shops or check out our online stores on eBay (@IsabelHospiceShop) and Vinted (@IsabelHospice2024).
