We've launched a charity shop vouchers pilot in Worcester to help support customers in financial hardship

We've launched a new pilot partnership in Worcester to provide charity gift cards for customers who need extra support with the rising cost of essential items.  

Through the pilot, customers identified as needing additional help will receive a charity shop gift card, which can be spent in participating charity shops across the city.  The card offers dignity and choice by enabling people to select the items they need most, from clothing and bedding to homeware and children’s essentials.  

Lisa Fairlie, our Director of Housing Operations said: “We know that many households are feeling financial pressure and this pilot is one way we can offer practical support.  By partnering with the Charity Shop Gift Card, we’re giving customers that need a little extra help, the flexibility to purchase the items they need, while also supporting local charity shops who do incredible work within our local community.”  

The Charity Shop Gift Card organisation works with local authorities, housing providers and charities to deliver crisis support through sustainable and community focused channels.  Purchases made through the card help fund local charities while encouraging reuse and reducing waste.  

Lee Fellows, Managing Director of the Charity Shop Gift Card said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to partner with Platform; the charity shop gift card enables its customers to shop with the dignity of choice in a safe and supportive environment for the essential items that they and their families need.  By using the scheme, funds go further, items are saved from landfill, all whilst helping fund local charities that do so much for our communities.”  

This initial pilot will run solely within Worcester city, with the potential to expand to other areas where our customers live in the future.  By trialling this approach in Worcester, we aim to provide our customers with meaningful, flexible and sustainable support at a time when many are facing increasing financial challenges.  

Anyone can purchase a charity shop gift card through partner charity shops, their websites and an increasing number of major high street retailers, including Sainsbury, Tesco, TG Jones and Boots stores.  Supporting the charity retail sector helps local communities and diverts thousands of tonnes of items from landfill, demonstrating the environmental and social benefits of reuse and affordable second hand shopping.   

Photo caption : l to r, Sam Johnston, Neighbourhood Officer and Lucy Lloyd, Localities Operations Coordinator, both from Platform Housing Group.