As most of us are aware, the shift towards online shopping and banking, coupled with the enduring effects of the pandemic, the cost of living and energy crises, and the move towards remote working, has significantly impacted our town centres.

Since 2010, bank branches have reduced by 60 per cent, and many other businesses, including clothing retailers, printers, bookmakers, pubs, and clubs, have seen a decline.

With more people shopping online for fashion, gambling digitally, printing less, and changing their social habits, traditional high street businesses have suffered.

However, that said, some businesses have thrived. Hairdressers, barbers, beauty salons, and gyms have all seen growth, alongside restaurants and coffee shops. Charity retail has also expanded, largely driven by the cost-of-living crisis.

Research suggests that nearly half of consumers are shopping more frequently in charity shops or considering doing so, with over 50 per cent motivated by lower prices and the opportunity to support charitable causes.

At North Herts & Stevenage Centre for Voluntary Services, the importance of income from charity shops to the funding mix of the voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise sector is clear.

In 2022, charity retail contributed £700 million nationally, serving as a crucial revenue source. Additionally, charity retailing promotes sustainability by rehoming second-hand goods, diverting 339,000 tonnes of clothing from landfill annually.

Charity shops bring variety and vitality to the high street, attracting donors, volunteers, staff, and shoppers, which in turn boosts footfall for neighbouring businesses.

In North Herts and Stevenage, Garden House Hospice Care is the largest charity retailer, operating eleven shops.

The hospice supports 2,000 local people annually and requires £7.7 million to operate, with its retail arm playing a significant role in fundraising.

However, charity shops are not immune to the cost of living and energy crises, which have led to increased rents, operational costs, and wages.

Concerns have also arisen in some charities about the quality and quantity of donations, as people are holding on to high-quality items for longer and spending less on new purchases.

Online platforms like Vinted are adding to the competition. A pre-Christmas clear-out could be the perfect way to support your local charity shops!

Volunteers are essential to charity retailing, and most shops would struggle without them.

Volunteering offers work experience, social interaction, and personal fulfilment to people of all ages. Many volunteers find a sense of purpose and community through their work.

For those interested in volunteering locally, the home of volunteering in Hertfordshire, www.govolherts.org.uk, is a great resource to explore available opportunities.