15/09/2025
One thing I didn’t expect in a Charity Shop, was the amount of shoplifting, it’s not just a few little bits, it’s an epidemic, and it’s constant, speaking to other similar shops, it seems we’re not alone.
Unfortunately, due to the aggression shown to volunteers when they confront people we’re having to change a few things.
We’ve always had CCTV, and it’s a VERY clear system, the police have told us it’s much better quality than the type used by large chains in town, so we know who is doing it.
We now have (locked) cabinets near the till for some of the more desirable items, it takes a few minutes to get keys, but does mean that we can display some of the better items that haven been donated.
Prams and pushchairs (yes, people have tried to walk out with them) are now alarmed.
Some items of clothing are now fitted with security tags (which can be removed at the till).
Other measures are also in place, but you get the idea.
All of these things take time, and money.
We have been advised by Merseyside Police that we cannot put printouts/photographs of shoplifters on the door/in the window, BUT, we are allowed to ban shoplifters from the premises, which means that if they return and steal again, it’s a much more serious offence, and, it seems, we CAN display pictures of those that are barred, but we can’t say why. 😎
It’s a shame as the shop is doing really well at the moment, we have a great team, and as the days get shorter and the nights colder, we know we’ll be needed even more.
Thank you for your help and kind donations, we all make a difference.
