Linlithgow charity shop set to return to the heart of the high street

The charity lost £500,000 a month during lockdown, following the closures of its 45 shops and postponement of all fundraising events. Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland is urging supporters to help replenish the shelves with some much needed donations.

Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland chief executive Jane-Claire Judson said: “We’ve been unable to raise money through our shops for the past three months and because of this our lifeline services have been under serious pressure.

“That is why it’s been so important for us to develop a robust re-opening plan and why we’re taking every precaution to ensure that our shops are clean and safe for customers, volunteers and staff.

“We are so looking forward to opening the shops again. They are a huge part of clan Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland and connect us to so many communities across Scotland. It has been extremely difficult having the shops closed and it has been a really tough situation for our dedicated staff and volunteers.

“As we navigate this new way of operating our shops, we are excited for the future. We can’t wait to welcome back our amazing customers and meet new ones too.

“Many of us have been clearing out during lockdown and we want people to know that their donation means we can continue to support people across Scotland to do more than survive. Every donation will help someone to get from hospital to home – and really live again.”

Carole Edmonds, head of retail at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said: “We have significant safety measures in place to protect customers, volunteers and staff and have introduced a new system for receiving and handling all our donations.

“All stock will be quarantined for 72 to reduce the risk of contamination and stock will be carefully dated with sorting areas in store to allow a safe processing system. We are installing cough screens, hand sanitising stations and limiting the amount of people allowed in the shop at anyone time. Mask will be provided for all staff and volunteers and we will be offering contactless payments and cash.

“Once the shops are open, in order to manage the flow of the donations we would appreciate it if people could drop off 10-11am or 4-5pm, or phone their local shop ahead of time to arrange a suitable drop off time where possible.

“We always appreciate our wonderful stock donations, but it is particularly important right now. By having a clear out and donating to our shops, you can be the difference between someone surviving or really living.”

The Linlithgow High Street store will be open Monday-Saturday 11am-4pm.