Age UK charity shop in Banbury town centre set for retail reopening on April 12

The Charity is looking forward to welcoming locals back to the shop, located on Parsons Street to pick up a bargain from one of the many items available in store, including clothing, accessories, books, toys and homeware.

Safety measures will once again be in place to protect customers, volunteers and staff, such as social distancing and sanitiser stations. Staff and volunteers will also have the required safety equipment when interacting with customers.

Age UK shops help raise vital funds for the charity’s work and services supporting older people, which have been a lifeline for older people during lockdown and throughout the coronavirus crisis.

Older people are among those hit hardest by the pandemic and Age UK’s services faced unprecedented demand when the crisis began. As the impact of the coronavirus continues, Age UK’s information and advice, and friendship services, will carry on being there to provide essential guidance, support and reassurance for older people.

James, manager at the Age UK Banbury shop, said: “We’re so excited to be able to open our doors again and can’t wait to welcome the local community back! All items purchased help raise much-needed funds for Age UK so it can continue supporting people in later life.

“We’re also appealing to anyone in Banbury who may be able to give up some time to help out by volunteering at the shop.

"We depend on the support of volunteers, so if you have found yourself with more free time and think you can help us, please give the Age UK Banbury shop a call on 01295 273232. Even small amounts of time can really make a huge difference.”

Alan, a volunteer at the Age UK Banbury shop, said: “Volunteering with the Age UK shop in Banbury is really enjoyable. As well as doing a variety of different tasks in the shop, I meet new people every day.

"I have made good friends with both the shop team and people in the local community and would encourage anyone thinking of signing up to give volunteering a go. it’s great to know you are making a difference and giving something back.”

The Age UK Banbury shop will be open 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday. To find out more about how Age UK’s shops, how the Charity has been helping older people during the pandemic and how you can help, please visit www.ageuk.org.uk