Charity Shops Targeted by Thieves in Nottinghamshire

A charity store employee in Nottingham has expressed her fear of returning to work due to a significant rise in shoplifting incidents. Reports indicate that shoplifting across Nottinghamshire has nearly doubled over the past eight years, leaving local shopkeepers frustrated. Nottinghamshire Police have introduced measures to combat the issue, including banning repeat offenders from specific areas. Nationally, shoplifting incidents reached over 430,000 in England and Wales last year, marking the highest figures since records began in 2003. Ms. McCormick, who works in a city center charity shop, shared her distress, stating that she has faced abuse from shoplifters and often feels terrified to come to work. She highlighted the impact of theft on charitable efforts, noting that stolen items could have provided essential support to families in need. The theft of charity boxes has further compounded the issue, with local organizations feeling particularly targeted and disheartened. Kelly Gibson, a cover manager at the Lighthouse charity shop in Mansfield, echoed these sentiments, revealing that theft occurs daily and expressing her anger over the situation. She called for increased support to help combat the ongoing problem. Superintendent Chris Pearson noted that most thefts are committed by individuals on the fringes of society, often to fund addictions, as well as organized groups stealing for profit. The rising trend of shoplifting has raised concerns among charity workers and shopkeepers, prompting calls for more robust measures to protect local businesses and community resources.