Reuse shop opens to raise funds for hospice

Maya Joseph-Hussain says the money raised through the new store will support Cynthia Spencer Hospice

A reuse shop has opened at a recycling centre, with proceeds going to a local hospice.

The store at the Sixfields Household Waste and Recycling Centre in Northampton is being run with Cynthia Spencer Hospice, West Northamptonshire Council and private waste firm FCC Environment.

Staff say early donations have included furniture, toys, electricals and bric-a-brac rescued from disposal.

"We've had such generosity from the local community. Some of these [donated items] have hardly been used," said Maya Joseph-Hussain, chief executive of Cynthia Spencer Hospice.

"There are so many amazing items that otherwise would have ended up in landfill."

Members of Cynthia Spencer Hospice and West Northamptonshire Council opened the reuse shop in Northampton on Friday

Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity funds specialist end of life care for people living with a life-limiting illnesses.

The charity supports patients, their families and those who care for them across west Northamptonshire.

There is already a reuse shop at the recycling centre in Farthinghoe.

Some of the most striking finds donated have included a golf set valued at "about £800-£900" and a marble table that sold within hours.

"We're saving so much from landfill. You just don't know what you're going to find here," said hospice employee Vanessa Clifford.

West Northamptonshire Council cabinet member for environment Nigel Stansfield, of Reform UK, described the shop as "like Aladdin's cave".

The local authority introduced a new booking system for household waste drop‑offs on 3 November at six local tips.

Mr Stansfield added: "We're really pleased with how well the new booking system has gone. Already 70% of slots are being used after just a week.

"Staff and residents are enjoying the easier process, and I've not heard a single negative comment on site."

The reuse shop is located at Sixfields Recycling Centre