Why sustainable retail is the sensible option
By

A warm welcome at Sense Credit: Matthew Bowmer

Why sustainable retail is the sensible option

By Matthew Bowmer, Manager, Sense, Bruce Grove

With 2020 behind us it’s fair to say most of us are hoping this year ushers in some positive changes. Not only has the pandemic affected our health, both physically and mentally, but it has also had a significant impact on our wallets – something which is likely to endure long into the future.

Similar to the effects of the 2008 financial crisis, the current situation has emphasised the importance of charity retail for a significant proportion of people.

The Sense charity shop in Bruce Grove has been a community hub ever since it opened, but plays a key role now more than ever. In addition to reducing waste in the local area by processing over 10,000 bags of donations per year, the shop also provides an affordable and sustainable retail option.

This is especially important in a world increasingly dominated by fast fashion as the January sales so clearly demonstrate.

Through its shops, Sense raises millions of pounds each year which go towards a number of services for disabled people, from housing and individual support to education and day services to holidays and activity groups. As well as fundraising, our charity shops do invaluable work to promote the rights of disabled people. Our vision is a world where no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is left out, isolated, or unable to fulfil their potential.

The Bruce Grove store acts as a focal point for many local residents who may face challenges or discrimination in their everyday lives. We advocate a message of equality for all people and our team consists of volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds.

Unfortunately, the impact of two lockdowns and subsequent restrictions have reduced our fundraising totals this financial year, but we have done everything possible to ensure our store is safe to welcome customers back. We would love to see some new faces in the store this year as well as our wonderful regular customers.

We are also always looking for new volunteers to join our friendly team and continue to accept donations as usual. Please come in to have a browse or chat to any of our staff. From everyone at the shop, have a fabulous year and we hope to see you very soon!

No news is bad news

Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.

The audiences they serve know less, understand less, and can do less.

If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, or one-off donation.