A Sheffield based hospice charity is to launch the first charity department store in the city.

St Luke’s is converting the 8,500 sq ft site on the Kilner Way Retail Park into a charity store with a raft of departments including wedding, fashion, children’s, homewares, furniture, books and records.

The site also includes a 7,000 sq ft warehouse at the rear of the store to provide a donation hub for people to drop off items.

The store will open in the autumn in addition to the 14 stores the charity already runs in Sheffield.

“St Luke’s Kilner Way will be our largest store, meeting public demand for cost-conscious shopping and the rise for high-quality pre-loved products,” said the charity’s commercial director Kathryn Burkitt.

“There will be a full range of eco-conscious items covering everything from contemporary and vintage fashion to occasion wear – departments will include wedding, children’s, homewares, furniture, books and records.”

“Kilner Way will have its own unique look and feel, providing the perfect setting for the range that has been hand-picked by the St Luke’s retail team from our thousands of donations.”

The charity anticipates interest in second hand goods will double over the next two years. It is currently looking for volunteers to work at the store.

Burkitt added: “Our retail chain raises an incredible £3million each year towards our patient care costs, transforming supporters pre-loved items into tailored care and support for those affected by terminal illness in Sheffield.”

Last month the charity won an online retail award after it sold a rare vinyl single by Sheffield rock band Def Leppard. The 1979 was sold for £1,022 on eBay by the charity.

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