The new clearance store is located downstairs at The Point in Central Milton Keynes, opposite the two main shopping centres.
With Milton Keynes recently named the best place in the UK to shop for second-hand clothing, and third in the world, Willen Hospice is strengthening that position with its new city centre offering; close to bus routes and key amenities.
Mark Rawlins, Associate Director Commerce at Willen Hospice said “Our customers are definitely feeling the economic pinch, with soaring energy bills and rising prices making shopping for everyday items a challenge. Our clothing starts from as low as £1. We are offering more choice at affordable prices. We’re not only at the heart of our community, we’re also in the heart of the city, looking to make a difference.
Mark adds: “Sustainability is important to Willen Hospice. Selling donated pre-loved clothing means that we can provide sustainable fashion to customers who choose to re-use and recycle clothing that might otherwise have ended up in landfill. Anything we can’t resell is either ragged or recycled to raise funds.”
Over the past few months the downstairs area that formerly housed the bingo hall at The Point, has been transformed and repurposed. This vast retail space will be the charity’s new clearance outlet, replacing the Grafton Gate store which will be closing in the next few months.
The new store has only been made possible by the support of the local business community. The landlord has generously made the premises available on a rolling tenancy basis and local companies have kindly donated time and resources to help Willen Hospice refit and upgrade the premises.
The refit has enabled the Hospice to raise funds from the sale of wooden and metal fixtures that were left behind in the premises. Only the colourful bingo hall carpet remains, reminiscent of an exciting atmosphere and a time when numbers were ceremoniously called out and winners celebrated.
Mark Rawlins continues “Willen Hospice supports people in the local community when they are facing end of life illnesses, and in turn, we depend hugely on our community to help us in our shops. We are appealing to people to help us by volunteering their time at The Point, even if it’s just a few hours a week. Volunteering is really rewarding. It can help to build your confidence; you’ll be learning new skills, working with amazing fashion, and it’s a fantastic way to socialise.”
If you are interested in volunteering, please email Volservices@willen-hospice.org.uk or visit www.willen-hospice.org.uk/volunteering
