Need to know
From soiled clothing to sex toys and intimate notebooks, charity shop workers have seen it all
A generic image of a charity shop
Need to know: charity shop shocks – from vintage finds to unwanted surprises
- Charity shop workers in Birkenhead have revealed the bizarre and sometimes unwelcome donations they receive alongside genuine treasures.
- While second-hand shops offer bargain prices and unique finds, staff must sort through some shocking contributions including soiled clothing and adult toys.
- One shop reported receiving a large black bag filled with vibrators, “whips, and everything” – believed to have been swapped by mistake for a bag destined for the tip.
- Among the more welcome donations were 18 vintage grandfather clocks, police sergeant’s medals, and fascinating 1940s family photos including pictures of World War 2 servicemen.
- Staff regularly find forgotten items in pockets including used tea bags, prescription drugs, and personal notebooks – with one donor banned after repeatedly handing in explicit sexual diaries.
- While some baby car seats donated “are worth hundreds,” health and safety regulations prevent their sale, highlighting the challenges charity shops face with well-meaning but unsuitable donations.
- READ THE FULL STORY: Birkenhead charity shop workers shocked by what they have been donated
