A HIGH Wycombe charity has fully backed a report which said there is no evidence that the rise of the number of charity shops is causing the decline of the high street.

The report launched by the Charity Retail Association and Demos said in some cases charity shops can prevent increases in crime and anti-social behaviour by occupying vacant premises.

South Bucks Hospice, which provides compassionate end-of-life care for local people, said it hopes the Giving Something Back report will dispel misconceptions about charity shops. The hospice has five shops and two reuse sites.

David Brodala, head of retail for South Bucks Hospice, said: "The findings from the report show that charity shops have a significant impact on the community and as a local charity that has been established in the area for over 28 years, we are proud to be part of this and give something back to the local people who support us.

"Research also showed that charity shops provide significant benefits to individuals through opportunities for volunteering and employment. South Bucks Hospice currently has over 200 volunteers and we work closely with employment services locally to do what we can."

The report also stated that charity shops do not increase rents and do not prevent small and medium businesses from opening on the high street Charity shops raise £290 million for charities in the UK and reduce carbon emissions by their reuse activity.

For more information visit www.sbh.org.uk