Little boy with complex needs opens new hospice shop

A seriously ill little boy with complex needs has opened a new-look shop in support of the charity which cares for him.

The new Keech Hospice Care charity shop in Roman Gate, Great Denham, was opened on Friday by Shayne Smith, 6, who cut the ribbon supported by his grandmother Kara Powell.

Kara said she loves the fresh design of the new shop and wants everyone to support the charity which cares for her grandson Shayne, who has intestinal failure.

“I care for Shayne 24/7 which can be very hard – and Keech is there when I need a break,” said Kara. “When I take Shayne to the hospice it gives me the chance to have a ‘normal’ conversation with other families who know what I’m going through and I can relax because I know he is being looked after by people who know what to do if anything goes wrong.

“The new shop in Great Denham looks fantastic and I can’t wait to start shopping here. I think everyone should not only shop at the charity’s stores, but also donate your quality items to Keech Hospice Care to help them raise as much money as possible.”

As a charity, Keech Hospice Care relies on its community to help raise around 70 per cent of the funding it needs for its care services. Every year the hospice must raise £5.7million so it can continue to provide excellent care and support to adults in Luton and Bedfordshire and Children in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and Milton Keynes.

Angela Burgess, Head of Retail at Keech Hospice Care, said the charity prides itself on stocking quality items in its 32 shops across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Milton Keynes.

“We really want to dispel the myth that charity shops are full of items that no one wants. I encourage anyone who has never been into our stores before to visit and prepare to be pleasantly surprised at what we have to offer, not to mention the very reasonable prices,” said Angela.

“By buying and donating your items, you’re helping Keech Hospice Care to ensure local adults and children facing a terminal or life-limiting illness can receive excellent care and support at a time in their lives when they need it most.”

Jez Cox, Area Retail Manager for Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes at Keech Hospice Care, said the charity’s shops are perfect for picking up a bargain.

“We’re delighted with the new Great Denham shop. Items are already flying out the store.

“We have more work planned this year as a further four of our shops will receive a facelift. We want all our customers to have the best shopping experience possible and thank everyone for supporting their local hospice.”

To volunteer at a Keech Hospice Care shop, email volunteering@keech.org.uk or call 01582 707955.