Hospice Takes Retail Online To Ensure Support During Second Lockdown

As the nation is plunged into another lockdown and uncertainty about when shops can open again, Lincoln-based St Barnabas Hospice has taken steps to allow supporters to carry on helping.

The Hospice, which has had to close its 26 charity shops, has switched gears and is now focusing on selling both new and used items online.Emma-Jayne Parker, New Goods and E-commerce Manager at St Barnabas Hospice, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has caused so many problems for businesses and charities, but we are determined to carry on raising money to support some of the most vulnerable people in Lincolnshire.

“By selling some of our items online during the November lockdown and beyond, it gives our supporters a chance to pick up some bargains before Christmas, and it opens a whole new way of working for the Shops department. We have seen fantastic uptake in both groups already and would love everyone to join and invite their friends and family members. Thank you so much to those who have already made purchases – you really are helping to keep the Hospice going through difficult times.”

The Hospice’s retail teams are running two Facebook groups, a pre-loved furniture and homeware group and a brand-new group selling designer goods including Karen Millen and Coast products.

Supporters can join both the Pre-Loved group and the Brand New Facebook group where they will find items for sale, or bid on items the Hospice has for sale on eBay.

There is a selection of Christmas cards and diaries available on the eBay site already and a selection of Christmas and gift ideas on the pre-loved group.

Those who wish to purchase items can use Paypal or pay with card over the phone. Instructions will be sent after purchase. The Hospice is also maintaining social distancing for item collection and is offering P&P and free local delivery on large items.

Lucy Dawson, St Barnabas Hospice supporter, said: “I had a limited budget to buy furniture for my first home when I left university, so buying preloved items from St Barnabas was a huge help to me. I even found some matching pieces! It’s amazing that I can support such a worthy charity whilst at the same time helping the planet by recycling furniture. I’m so pleased to hear that St Barnabas will keep on selling their items during the most recent lockdown.”