Charity shop makes a passionate plea after hugely inappropriate item is donated

26 October 2023 , 18:00

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An unusual item was donated to the charity shop in Gorseinon, Swansea (Image: Robert Dalling / WalesOnline)

A branch of Barnado's has made a passionate plea to remind people what is appropriate to donate.

Volunteers at the branch of the children's charity in Gorseinon, Swansea, said it welcomes donations of clothing, children's toys, unopened toiletries, home items and bric-a-brac. They wrote on social media: "Could those of you who kindly donate please be mindful that we are a children's charity and as such we have a range of ages on our wonderful volunteer team."

The charity stressed it does appreciate regular donations and these help struggling families and children across the UK and countries afar.

Clothes are appreciated by Bernado's, the charity says (Getty Images)

But volunteers at the Gorseinon branch said it received "adult toys" in a recent donation. The team stressed any "adult toys", especially those which have been used, are not suitable for donation.

The branch's social media post added: "We therefore ask that you refrain from donating your used and unused marital aids! We would like to remind you that the branch has CCTV so that these items can be traced back to their owners. Thank you."

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Speaking today to Wales Online, a Barnardo's spokesperson added: "We're always hugely appreciative of donations from the community - but it’s fair to say that these items aren't quite the sorts of toys we’re looking for. This winter, frontline staff at Barnardo's will be helping struggling children and families across Wales by providing them with essential items like food and clothing. The money raised from our shops helps us to carry on this vital work – so please do donate any clothing or children's toys you can to your local Barnardo's store."

Bernado's, which has headquarters in Ilford, Essex, is the largest national children’s charity in the UK. Queen Elizabeth II was its patron for more than 30 years, from 1983 to 2016, and helped the charity to raise awareness of the needs of vulnerable children and young people in the UK.

Molly Dowrick