Charity Shop Customer Calls Out Round-Up Requests
A dedicated charity shop customer has voiced frustration over a common staff habit, saying the practice of asking for small additional donations at the till needs to end. Amy, who posts on TikTok as @allsortsamy, spends between £150 and £300 every month in charity shops across Bury, Greater Manchester. Despite her significant spending, she was left feeling temporarily guilty after refusing a request to round up her payment by just two pence.
According to the Charity Retail Association, money spent in charity shops first covers operating expenses such as rent, utilities and paid management salaries. The remaining net profit is transferred directly to the charity’s core cause, such as funding medical research, social care, or international aid.
Two Pence Request Sparks Backlash
During a recent shopping trip, Amy picked up two dresses priced at £14.99 and £8.99. At the till, the staff member asked: “That's £23.98. Can I add the extra two pence and round it up to £24?” Amy said no, but immediately felt guilty for refusing. She admitted she would prefer the items simply be priced at £15 and £9 rather than being asked to contribute extra.
“I know they've probably got a directive to ask that question every single time, I don't know, maybe I was just in one of those moods, I was just a bit irritated by it,” she shared in her video. “I know it was only two pence, but there's just something about it when they ask for more money. And like I say, I'm somebody who gives hundreds of pounds a month to charity shops.”
Mixed Reactions from Viewers
The video sparked debate among viewers. One commenter wrote: “I always round it up myself and tell them to keep the small change. Regardless of anything else, including how much you spend, it’s for charity, and let’s face it, as you resell stuff YOU make a profit out of goods donated for free, you’re missing the point entirely.”
However, others supported Amy’s stance. One said: “Nope. Can you imagine donating money to charity and saying here's x amount and they ask you for more?” Another added: “No, it's entirely your choice. I don't like it when I am paying at the self-service till, and it asks me if I want to make a donation. I already donate to charities of my choice, and some people are really struggling, so they plan their spending very carefully.”
