Thrift shop staff crisis

CHARITY bosses are reeling from the loss of more than 2,500 shop workers – a fifth of their volunteers – during the pandemic.

The British Heart Foundation fears some of its 712 shops may be forced to cut their hours if they cannot recruit more ahead of the festive season.

And the staff crisis could reduce funds needed for lifesaving research.

The BHF’S Sarah Boardman said “Volunteers are our life-blood. We can’t operate our shops.”

Many volunteers have failed to return after the lockdowns because of health concerns.