Dove House Hospice Celebrates Vital Role of Charity Shops During Hospice Care Week

As the only adult hospice serving Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire, Dove House has become a cornerstone of compassionate care in the region. Behind this essential service lies a thriving retail operation that has been supporting local families through the most challenging times, when a loved one requires respite, but more commonly, end of life care.

Since opening its first charity shop on Beverley Road in 1986, Dove House has expanded to thirty-four locations across Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire. Responding to customer demand the hospice's retail arm has evolved beyond traditional charity shops, now including specialised stores like the Furniture Superstore on Hessle Road, and a vintage boutique, No.87, on Newland Avenue.

In a bold move to attract eco-conscious shoppers, Dove House launched "The Market" in July at their distribution centre on Malmo Road. This innovative concept store represents a shift towards a more modern, market-style shopping experience.

Jennifer Rowan, Head of Retail at Dove House, expressed her enthusiasm: "We are thrilled that Hospice Care Week is recognising the vital role our charity shops play. They are the face of Dove House in the community, and every purchase directly supports local families in need."

The hospice's retail strategy goes beyond mere fundraising. Two Re-Use Shops operated by Dove House are actively diverting items from recycling, aligning with growing environmental concerns. For those seeking unique finds, the Bridal by Dove House section at the Hessle Road store offers wedding attire at fraction of high street prices.

Sarah Cash, Deputy Chief Executive, emphasised the direct impact of these shops: "Our shops are hospice care. By shopping here, you're supporting your local hospice. They are our link to the community, and we're immensely proud of their role in the care we provide.

“In addition to retail, increasingly the hospice is having to think more creatively about how we generate funds to continue our work and generate new services for patients."

As Hospice Care Week continues, Dove House invites the public to explore their diverse range of shops. Whether you're donating unwanted items, searching for a bargain, or simply looking to support a worthy cause, these shops offer a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of local families facing life-limiting illnesses.

For more information on Hospice Care Week activities at Dove House, visit www.dovehouse.org.uk/hospicecareweek.