Market Hall welcomes food and school uniform shop

A community shop is set to open in Derby's Market Hall to help people struggling to pay for food.

The Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance said The Thoughtful Shop would support people through a new membership scheme that is due to be launched next month.

The charity said those referred through the alliance would receive virtual credit to spend in store – depending on their household size.

The shop, due to open on the upper floor on Tuesday, will sell everyday essentials and pre-owned school uniforms. There will also be a ground floor donation box for shoppers.

Paul Brookhouse, chief executive of the charity, said it had given out 116,104 food parcels since 2020.

"These figures are shocking and we must do everything we can to offer food support to those in need," he said.

"The rising cost of living is affecting us all. The highest increase is amongst households where at least one parent is working.

"Often families and individuals who have jobs, simply can't make their wages last the whole month as the income is too low.

Brookhouse said the shop would allow members to "receive support in a more dignified way".

Debbie Jones, senior project coordinator of the alliance, said the charity was "taking the next step" in how it supports people across the city.

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