March 10th, 2021.


During normal times, those bags of clothes you kindly donate to charity shops are sorted and put up for sale within a few days. But these are not normal times. With all their shops closed, charity Age UK East Sussex, is struggling to deal with a huge backlog at its Donation Centre in Newhaven, and is putting out an urgent plea for volunteers to help as we come out of lockdown.

Donation Centre Manager, Caroline Rosan, explains: “The public are so generous. They have donated so much to support local older people during the pandemic. The trouble is that many of our volunteers who normally sort these items are elderly themselves and are shielding, or unable to safely leave their homes. With our shops closed as well, the donations are really starting to pile up. We have a mountain of items to process and urgently need help to sort through these lovely donations and prepare to re-open our charity shops in April.”

The Age UK East Sussex Donation Centre operates a COVID-secure working environment with safety measures and social distancing throughout. If you have an eye for fashion, are a fan of books, or enjoy finding antique gems, then give them a call today on 01273 646 800.

The charity is also on the lookout for keen photographers and social media champions to help with their new online store.

Throughout the pandemic Age UK East Sussex has continued to provide vital services to many elderly people, veterans, and their families across East Sussex. In March of last year, the charity set-up C.E.R.T., their Community Emergency Response Team. C.E.R.T. has provided a weekly shopping service and companionship to hundreds of house-bound people. Alongside this, their Information, Advice and Community Navigator Teams provide support across the county; helping older people to access the benefits, grants and services they desperately need during these difficult times.

To volunteer please call 01273 646 800 or if you are need support call 01273 476 704.

In line with government guidelines, the Age UK East Sussex Donation Centre, Furniture Warehouse and charity shops are currently closed to the public. If you need to arrange a collection or drop off of donations, please call beforehand as public access is unavailable at present. Please do not leave donations outside shops when they are closed.


www.ageukeastsussex.org.uk