Donating to charity shops
- Check your donations are clean and functional. Charity shops work because they can sell items with a second life.
- For large items e.g. furniture, or for a large number of bags, it is best to call the shop to check that they have space. For electrical appliances its good to check to see if they can accept the item as it will need PAT testing. If you are unsure about your donation, it’s always best to check first.
Find a charity shop - Take your bag(s) of saleable items into a charity shop and ask a staff-member where they would like you to leave them. Do not leave your donations outside the shop.
- If you are a UK taxpayer, you can Gift Aid your donation: this means that the charity can receive an extra 25p from the Government, for every £1 they raise from selling your goods.
Donating unusual objects
- Bicycles: Many charity shops do accept bicycles, otherwise contact Re-cycle who send second-hand bikes to Africa
- Computers: give to Computeraid International, Donate a PC or IT specialists in the Reuse Network
- Food (non-perishable): give to local food banks
- Medical equipment: can go to Mercy Ships
- Spectacles: many opticians run charity programmes with second-hand glasses
- Tools: Tools for bicycle repairs, blacksmiths, carpenters, engineers, mechanics, and shoe repairs are all welcomed by Tools for Self Reliance
Will a charity shop collect from my home or office?
Some charity shops can collect donations from you, for example if your donation is large. Contact the shop first to check.
You can also use charity collection sacks that may appear through your front door. If you take this route we advise that you read the small print and make sure the sack you fill is going direct to a registered charity.