Published
12 September 2026

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Celebrity Joe Garrett opens St Christopher’s 24th Charity Shop as Hospice Bucks high Street Trends with Ambitious Retail Expansion

Joe Garrett standing in the entrance of Eltham High Street charity shop with hospice banners and people clapping either side of him

New Eltham store marks latest step in plans to grow retail network by more than a third over the next three years

Saturday 12 September – St Christopher’s hospice has officially opened a new store on Eltham High Street, bringing affordable pre-loved shopping to the local community while generating vital income to support hospice care across south east London.

The new shop forms part of St Christopher’s wider retail strategy, with plans to open at least three additional shops each year over the next three years. This would see the hospice add at least nine new stores to its current network of 24, increasing its retail estate by 37.5%.

The expansion comes at a time when many high street retailers are facing significant challenges, including rising operating costs, changing consumer habits and reduced footfall. While other major charity retailers are shrinking their estates, St Christopher’s is moving firmly in the opposite direction. The British Heart Foundation has announced plans to close 150 of its 640 shops, a reduction of almost a quarter (23%) of its retail estate, while Cancer Research UK has reduced its retail presence by around 22%.

St Christopher’s continued investment reflects its confidence in the power of charity retail to generate sustainable funding for hospice care, meet growing demand for affordable and environmentally conscious shopping, and help revitalise local high streets.

Joe Garratt, Presenter and Love Island Star, said: “I’m delighted to be opening St Christopher’s new Eltham charity shop and helping celebrate such an exciting moment for the hospice. Having grown up in south east London, it’s great to see an organisation investing in local high streets and creating spaces that bring communities together.

“I’ve always loved fashion and sustainable style, so it’s brilliant to see a charity shop offering people the chance to pick up unique pre-loved finds while supporting an incredible cause at the same time.

“What really makes this shop special is the difference it will make. Every item donated, every purchase and every volunteer hour helps St Christopher’s continue providing vital care and support to local people and their families when they need it most. I’m proud to be here to support the opening and encourage everyone to come down, have a look around and get involved.”

Celebrity Joe Garrett inside Eltham charity shop holding clothes at the checkout

Top: Celebrity Joe Garrett opens Eltham High Street store. Above: Joe Garrett explores the store.

Dan Moore, Head of Trading at St Christopher’s Hospice, said: “The opening of our Eltham shop is another exciting milestone in St Christopher’s retail journey. At a time when many retailers are reducing their presence on the high street, we are proud to be investing in local communities and growing our charity shop network.

“Our shops play a vital role in supporting our hospice services, generating essential income that helps fund specialist care and support for people living with life-limiting illnesses, as well as support for families, carers and those facing bereavement. Every purchase, donation and Gift Aid contribution helps make that care possible.

“Charity retail has never been more important. As well as raising sustainable income for hospice care, our shops support local high streets, encourage reuse and sustainable shopping, and create welcoming community spaces where people can connect, volunteer and make a difference.

“We are delighted to become part of the Eltham community and look forward to welcoming local residents through our doors.”

The new Eltham shop offers a wide range of pre-loved fashion, accessories, homeware, books and unique items, providing local residents with affordable and sustainable shopping options while helping to raise funds for hospice care.