Age UK Barnsley Wombwell Shop to close

Age UK Barnsley announce with regret the closure of their Wombwell Charity Shop, effective from 15^th December 2023.

Rising costs and financial pressures across the charity retail sector have meant that it is no longer sustainable to continue operating the Wombwell Shop, with the focus at Age UK Barnsley now shifting towards consolidating retail operations at the Eldon Street and Cudworth premises.

Management have undertaken full consultation with all staff employed at the Wombwell Shop and are pleased to be able to confirm that all staff have been offered alternative employment opportunities at other Age UK Barnsley premises.

Commenting, Age UK Barnsley Chief Executive Debby Bunn said:

“It is with a heavy heart that we have had to take the hugely difficult decision to close the Wombwell Shop at the end of the current lease period. We appreciate the impact this will have on staff, volunteers, customers and the wider community and want to reassure everyone that this decision has not been taken lightly.

“The cost-of-living crisis has had a profound impact on the charity retail sector, both in terms of rising costs, falling revenue and a significant impact on donation streams. This is not unique to us; it is an issue that is being felt right across the country.

“I am pleased that we have been able to offer alternative employment to our staff – many of whom have worked for Age UK Barnsley for a number of years.

“I also want to reassure our clients that we will continue to have a strong presence in Wombwell through our Social Inclusion Project – which currently runs social groups including the Chatty Crafters, Horseshoe Coffee Morning, Wombwell Men’s Club; alongside one-to-one support for clients in need.

“We will also continue retail operations through focusing our efforts on Eldon Street and Cudworth, providing a low-cost alternative for shoppers and helping to raise vital funds on behalf of older people in Barnsley.”

<ENDS>