Jesmond’s charity shops are feeling the strain as volunteer numbers drop, making it harder to manage donations and keep the community spaces residents rely on running smoothly. Rising living costs, tighter schedules, and fewer long-term volunteers mean local shops are navigating a challenge that mirrors a nationwide trend. There are however plenty of ways for residents to get involved and make a real difference.
A new hybrid fashion and food store, The Hideaway Store, is set to open on Acorn Road in Jesmond. The shop, owned by Scott Whitehead, will combine a curated selection of clothing and lifestyle items with Acaiety, serving açai bowls, smoothies and coffee. Whitehead said the concept was inspired by a trip to Japan and will be “the first company in the North East to serve soft serve açai.” The store is due to open on Saturday 3 January, with a promotional offer on launch day.
Local retailers on Acorn Road in Jesmond say the Christmas period has brought a welcome boost in trade, with many describing the past few weeks as some of their busiest of the year. At Oliver Bonas, staff say footfall has steadily increased as shoppers search
Retailers on Jesmond’s Acorn Road say limited parking is putting pressure on small businesses. While some say they support Newcastle’s greener transport goals, others believe the balance has tipped too far. Acorn Road was restructured in the mid-2010s under Newcastle City Council’s Cycle City Ambition