Christmas may be a time for giving and while most people will have been lucky enough to receive presents they love, the chances are many will have also received a present they don’t really want.
Whether it’s a jumper that didn’t fit, a pair of novelty socks, a gadget that will never be used or a DVD that’s already owned, many will now be faced with the conundrum of what to do with an unwanted present as the festive season draws to a close.
Rather than throwing them out or leaving unwanted Christmas presents to gather dust at the back of the wardrobe, Age UK is urging people to give back and donate any unwanted gifts to their local Age UK shop and see in the New Year clutter-free!
Found at 25 High Street, the Age UK Westbury shop accepts donations of both new and secondhand items, all of which are then sold on to be loved again, helping to raise vital funds for the charity’s work supporting older people.
The charity is also encouraging people to make their donation worth an extra 25% by signing up to Gift Aid. Simply completing a basic form when donating goods means that Age UK will receive an extra 25p from the government for every £1 that is raised from donations. That extra money helps raise much-needed funds for people in later life.
Sarah, shop manager at the Age UK shop in Westbury said, “It can be difficult knowing what do to with gifts that will never be used, however by donating unwanted Christmas presents or old items to our shop, people will be helping a great cause.
“You can also help us raise even more by signing up to Gift Aid, it really couldn’t be easier. You only need to do it once and our staff will be on hand to help you do so.
“Not only could they be another person’s treasure, your donations will also help Age UK raise much-needed funds to help brighten up 2018 for an older person.”
The money raised through Age UK’s shops goes towards supporting the charity’s vital work for older people, helping to continue its vital work by providing companionship, support and advice, as well as a free national advice line (open 365 days a year) and vital campaigning work.
Age UK has over 410 shops across the UK, which are reliant on the kind donations of the local community to keep the shelves stocked and supported by a team of dedicated staff and volunteers. The shops accept unwanted goods such as clothing and accessories, gifts, toys, household items and shoes.
To find a local Age UK shop or for more information about Age UK please visit www.ageuk.org.uk.
Above: Sarah White, manager of the Westbury branch of AgeUK.
