Sue Ryder's response to Mary Portas' 'High Street' review

16 December 2011

Heidi Travis, Director of Retail at Sue Ryder, commented: “We welcome Mary Portas’ analysis of the current situation of UK’s High Streets and her suggestions that in order to create vibrant, attractive High Streets, landlords, council leaders, retailers and local communities need to work together.

"In her review, Mary Portas highlights that empty premises on the High Street are a cause of great concern, damaging the image of our High Streets, not attracting new businesses. And,as quoted in the report, it is ‘better to have something in them than stand empty’. Charity shops often occupy premises that have been empty for a long time, supporting other local businesses by creating footfall.

"Charity shops like Sue Ryder also play a key role as community hubs. People like to shop in charity shops, not only because they know they can find good quality products at an affordable price, but also because they like the idea of helping a worthwhile cause. Shops like Sue Ryder benefit the local community as a whole. They help raise money which goes back into providing vital services to local people who need them most.

"Sue Ryder has 370 shops across the UK. Last year, these shops helped raise £33m, which represents 45% of the total income for the charity. Sue Ryder provides end of life and long-term care to people living with complex conditions including cancer, stroke, Multiple Sclerosis and dementia. Services provided through our hospices across the country are free to the point of delivery. But we need to raise more than 60% in voluntary income to continue to provide those services for local communities. Money raised through our shops represents a vital source of funds. Without charity shops, people will not have access to a number of vital services simply because charities will not have enough funds to provide those services”.

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