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Charity membership

Over 90% of charity retailers have joined our Association and more join every year. We are the only member organisation dedicated to supporting charities who run shops as part of their fundraising activities. By pooling expertise and joining forces to promote common interests, we help members to operate their shops as effectively as possible. Members range from the largest national charities to locally based hospices. Find out more about the Association.

Charity membership benefits

Active lobbying and policy work
We carry out effective lobbying on behalf of our members at local, national and EU levels. We ensure our members are kept abreast of forthcoming legislation and possible developments that might have an impact on the sector.

Quarterly Market Analysis
Our quarterly surveys provide detailed information on key issues affecting the sector such as sales, average salaries and rag prices. This research cannot be obtained anywhere else and would cost up to £1000 per report if produced commercially. View a sample report

Research, training, and support
We offer a range of quality services to our members including:

  • Commissioning of sector-specific consumer research and regular reports on the valuable findings.
  • Our successful Security project, specifically designed for our sector, to promote good practice and prevent loss, including a manual, training CD and workshops around the country.
  • Annual Health and Safety workshops.
  • Special interest groups in property, recycling, HR and health and safety, where colleagues debate, support and exchange information on a regular basis.
  • A regularly updated Members' Handbook providing key guidance on a wide range of issues. View contents page of the handbook

Code of Charity Retailing
The Code of Charity Retailing is the sector's self-regulatory scheme for members of the Association of Charity Shops. It is a means of promoting best practice and public confidence in the sector. Status as a compliant member of the Code is mandatory with membership.

Annual Conference, Exhibition and Awards
This popular event is unique to the sector and is an invaluable opportunity for networking, learning and recognition - members attend at a significantly discounted rate. Find out about the 2007 Conference

Additional member benefits include:

  • Access to the members only area of our website
  • A free 24-hour legal advice helpline
  • Video loans
  • Access to additional reports and surveys of the sector
  • Regular Bulletins providing the latest news for the sector
  • Members' meetings - great networking opportunities!

Joining criteria

Membership is open to registered charities in England, Scotland and Wales, exempt charities, charities recognised by the Inland Revenue in Northern Ireland and charity subsidiary trading companies. Charities outside the UK may apply at a reduced fee.

Fees

  • The membership year runs from 1 April to 31 March.
  • Permanent shops – minimum of £175 pa (up to 4 shops); £38.50 pa per shop thereafter up to a maximum of 500 shops.
  • Branch or temporary shops (those expected to be in operation for less than 6 months at 1 March of the membership year) - £19.25 pa per shop, minimum of £175 pa.
  • Overseas members - £19.25 pa per shop, minimum of £175 pa.
  • Charity members not currently running shops - £175 pa.
  • Charities joining after the 1 September will be charged at half price for the remainder of the membership year.

All fees are subject to VAT at the standard rate. We will send you an invoice, so please do not send payment with your application form.

Application to join the Association or renew your membership

Apply online or download an application form. If you have any queries about membership, please email Susan or call 020 7255 4470.