‘Incredibly Saddened’: Hartlepool Charity Shop Hit by Devastating Break-In...
- Aug 13
- 2 min read
Charity Shop Forced to Close After Thieves Steal Safe and Cause Thousands in Damage
13th August 2026
A charity shop in Hartlepool has been forced to close after thieves broke into the premises overnight, stealing a safe containing the previous day’s takings and causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.
Alice House Hospice confirmed the break-in on Thursday Afternoon at its Wynyard Rd Store, saying those responsible had also stolen the shop’s computer and stock during the raid.
The incident has dealt a particularly damaging blow to the organisation, with its charity shops helping to generate vital funds used to support local people living with life-limiting illnesses.
In a statement following the break-in, the charity said it was “incredibly disappointed and saddened” by what had happened.
As well as the money and equipment stolen, the organisation says thousands of pounds worth of damage was caused inside the Wynyard Road premises.
The consequences of the raid have also continued into Thursday, with the shop unable to open while staff and volunteers deal with the aftermath.
It means the charity has not only lost the previous day’s takings and stolen stock, but also an entire day’s trading income.
The charity explained that every pound raised through its shops makes a difference to the services it is able to provide for people living with life-limiting illnesses.
Staff are now working to get the premises back into a condition where it can safely reopen, with the charity saying that all being well, the organisation hopes the Wynyard Road shop will be able to reopen as normal on Friday.
The charity thanked customers for their continued support and understanding following the incident, while also paying tribute to staff and volunteers dealing with the disruption.
