Salvation Army charity shop in Wisbech moves to keep providing ‘essential income’ to help homeless

A Wisbech charity shop that has made the move into the Salvation Army church has said there has been positive feedback from the community.

The Salvation Army charity shop has moved into its actual premises on John Thompson Road and offers vintage clothing and other goods.

The shop brings in “essential income” to the charity which helps the homeless.

Jon Pearce from the church leadership team and Amanda, shop manager, decided to move the shop into the church building because of rising costs at its previous home on Union Street, so they found a low-cost way of keeping a charity shop open in the town.

Amanda said: “It’s lovely having everything under one roof and we have also been able to launch a new café which is fantastic.

“It’s also a warm welcome space where staff can help customers with other issues such as spiritual advice and tackling the cost of living as well as shopping. We believe a listening ear is as good as retail therapy.”

Jon said all at the church believe the move means The Salvation Army can offer a more holistic approach to caring for the community.

He said: “If someone comes into the shop seeking help or guidance for a certain aspect of their life then we have the facilities at the hall to be able to speak to them in a confidential and safe space.”

Amanda has managed the shop since 2017. She said she is looking forward to welcoming members of the public.

She added: “The church is in a residential area so you really feel like part of the community.I get a huge amount of job satisfaction here, especially when you get talking to people in a practical sense and offer a supportive chat. The move has really brought us all together.”

The shop is open on Monday to Friday from 9am to 3.30pm at John Thompson Road, Wisbech. Donations can also be made during this time.