Scope
Over 220 shops challenging disability inequality across the UK
Scope was founded in 1952 as 'The Spastics Society' — a name reflecting the medical terminology of the era — by a group of parents of children with cerebral palsy who were frustrated by the lack of services, understanding, and support available to their families. The founders campaigned for education, employment opportunities, and public recognition that people with cerebral palsy had full rights to participate in society.
The organisation changed its name to 'Scope' in 1994 to reflect a broader mission: addressing the inequality and discrimination faced by all disabled people, not just those with cerebral palsy. Since then, Scope has grown into one of the UK's leading disability equality charities, running a national helpline, employment support programmes, and advocacy campaigns that challenge the systemic barriers disabled people face in everyday life.
Scope operates over 220 charity shops across England and Wales. The shops are a vital source of income for the charity and are known for their good-quality stock and helpful staff. Scope has invested in modernising its retail estate in recent years, and many of its shops are bright, accessible, and well-presented. The charity also has an active online presence, selling via eBay.
Scope's ambition is a society where all disabled people are equal. The charity's research consistently shows that disabled people in the UK face significant disadvantages in employment, income, and social inclusion — and it uses its retail income to fund the campaigns, services, and advocacy that challenge those disadvantages. Shopping at Scope is a small but meaningful contribution to disability equality.
Scope relies on volunteers to run its shops. One regular session a week is typically all that's needed.
Volunteer with Scope ↗ Guide to charity shop volunteering →What can I donate to Scope?
Drop donations at any Scope shop. No standard home collection.
- Clothing & shoes
- Accessories & jewellery
- Books, CDs & DVDs
- Homeware & ornaments
- Toys in good condition
- Large furniture
- Electrical appliances
- School uniforms
- Duvets & pillows
- Damaged items
Scope — common questions
What was Scope originally called and when was it founded?
Scope was founded in 1952 as 'The Spastics Society' by parents of children with cerebral palsy who were campaigning for better services and recognition of their children's rights. The charity changed its name to Scope in 1994 to reflect a wider mission of addressing disability inequality for all disabled people, not just those with cerebral palsy.
What does Scope do with money raised in its shops?
Scope uses its retail income to fund disability equality campaigns, employment support programmes, and its free national helpline (0808 800 3333). The charity's work challenges the barriers that disabled people face in employment, housing, education, and social life. Scope's goal is a society where all disabled people are equal.
What can I donate to a Scope charity shop?
Scope accepts good-quality clothing, shoes, accessories, books, CDs, DVDs, homeware, jewellery, and toys. Items should be clean and in good condition. Scope does not generally accept large furniture, electrical appliances, school uniforms, duvets, pillows, or damaged goods. Contact your local Scope shop if you are unsure about specific items.
Does Scope have an accessible shopping experience in its stores?
Scope is committed to accessibility and has been improving the physical accessibility of its shops as part of its estate modernisation programme. If you have specific access requirements, it is worth contacting your local Scope shop in advance to check.
How do I find my nearest Scope charity shop?
Use the postcode or location search on this page to find Scope shops near you using live map data. You can also use the official store finder at scope.org.uk/support-us/shops/.
Does Scope have an online shop?
Yes. Scope sells donated items online through eBay. All proceeds go toward funding disability equality work and support services for disabled people across the UK.
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