Derry’s Cancer Focus NI charity shop re-opens its doors

The charity’s shop at 27 Shipquay Street - one of 12 across Northern Ireland - recycles unwanted goods into funds to support its vital services.

However, due to COVID-19, opening hours have changed slightly. The shop will be open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4.30pm.

Deborah Tracey, local Cancer Focus NI shop manager said: “We are delighted to be able to open our shops and welcome customers, old and new, through the doors again.

“This has been such a difficult time for us all and the charity would like to thank everyone in the community for their continued support.

“Everyone is trying their best to get into the swing of the new normal and we invite bargain hunters to come along and browse through our wide range of good-value, good-quality items – everything from vintage chic and retro trends to smart tailoring or a special gift.

“Like all other retailers, we assure our customers that we are applying social distancing rules and will only allow a limited number of shoppers to enter at one time. We have also introduced a vigorous cleansing regime to do our utmost to ensure customer safety.”

She added: “Many of you will have spent your free time during lockdown clearing out cupboards and wardrobes so that you can donate your pre-loved goods to charity, which is fantastic. However, as we have limited storage space, we’d ask if you could call us before you bring in a donation just to make sure we have room.”

Each year, Cancer Focus NI supports 6,000 cancer patients, their families and carers across Northern Ireland. During COVID-19, the charity has had to suspend most of its services and has had to cancel fundraising events. As a result, it’s facing an 80% loss of income over the next six months.

The charity is still providing greatly reduced counselling and family support to as many vulnerable people as possible but urgently needs your continued support to save its services.

The shop can be found at 27 Shipquay Street, call 028 9756 8144.