Christmas is a time for giving and people embrace that by giving more to charity in the winter months. But, what about the rest of the year?
The Charities Aid Foundation UK Giving 2017 report found that, following donating money, giving items to charity is the second most common form of engaging and 56 per cent of the people they interviewed said they had donated goods in the last year.
Most people are choosing to donate clothes at Christmas time as this is when they clear out old items before they are gifted new ones on Christmas day. A lot of people also buy gifts and outfits from charity shops as a cheaper option.
If you’re lucky, you could find a one-off item that is perfect for your festive parties.
The Business Manager for Barnardo’s Tyne and Wear, Jo Strachan said: “We have an increase in customers and donations across the Tyne and Wear region of around 20 per cent every Christmas. That means our trading has been fabulous with increases across the board, not only against the rest of the year but also on last year. We’d like to thank all of our customers and donors for their continued support.”
This is great news for our local charities. However, it means that for the rest of the year, the trading isn’t as high.
PwC’s Charity Consulting Lead, James Bowman said: “We have found that shoppers often find themselves surprised about the range of goods for sale and in particular the large selection of new items and gifts in many shops. For charity shops to be able to keep raising funds for their causes, it is key that they restock and get new donations in the New Year. All shops locally will help find a good home for any unwanted gifts you may get this Christmas.”
Do continue to be charitable over Christmas but why not make it your New Year’s resolution to continue your good deeds?
This is such a great post, and so true! Giving needs to be a year-round action!