MP visits newly opened hospice shop in Brownhills

Wendy Morton, MP for Aldridge-Brownhills, visited the St Giles Hospice shop on High Street, Brownhills, part of the charity's network of 23 retail outlets.

During the visit on Wednesday, 22 January, Wendy Morton met with St Giles Hospice Chief Executive Elinor Eustace and the shop manager Michelle Reece to discuss how retail operations support vital end-of-life care services.

Wendy Morton said: "It was a pleasure to visit the St Giles shop in Brownhills and meet the amazing team there. Their dedication and hard work is already helping to raise vital funds to ensure that the hospice can continue to provide outstanding care and support to those who need it most in our community. We’re delighted to welcome them back to the High Street."

Elinor added: "We are delighted to have welcomed Wendy Morton MP to our Brownhills shop to meet our wonderful volunteers and staff. The visit provided an important opportunity to share how our shops support our wider hospice and discuss our current financial challenges."

The shop, which opened on Thursday, 9 January, raised over £500 on its first day of trading. All St Giles shops are currently being refurbished to boost fundraising capabilities and improve working conditions for staff and volunteers.

This success reflects the generous support of local donors, shoppers and volunteers who contribute to the charity's retail network, which generated more than £500,000 last year.

With annual operating costs approaching £10 million and only 18% government funding, St Giles relies heavily on retail income to maintain its specialist services for patients and families across the region.

To find out more about St Giles Hospice shops or to find your nearest store, visit: stgileshospice.com/shops