The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is launching a new initiative this Christmas to ensure that Secret Santa gifts are more meaningful and loved. In response to findings that nearly a third of Secret Santa gifts are never used, the charity is making it easier for shoppers to find unique, pre-loved presents that will be cherished, while also supporting vital heart research.
According to a survey commissioned by the BHF, 32% of people who have participated in Secret Santa exchanges received gifts that they never used. Over 2000 UK consumers were asked about their experiences, with some revealing their most memorable presents, including quirky items like “reindeer poo,” nose hair trimmers, and even a mankini. Many participants also expressed frustration, with 15% admitting that buying gifts for Secret Santa felt stressful and difficult.
To help alleviate this stress and reduce waste, the BHF is rolling out a festive Secret Santa present scheme across its 680 charity shops nationwide. Items in the shops that are perfect for the occasion will be clearly marked with a “Secret Santa” sticker, making it easier for shoppers to find thoughtful and unique presents. From vintage books to stylish scarves, each stickered gift has been carefully chosen by the BHF’s team of staff and volunteers.
Allison Swaine-Hughes, Retail Director at the BHF, said: “Our survey showed that while many people across the UK will be taking part in festive Secret Santa exchanges, many find gift shopping stressful, and often, these gifts end up unused. This Christmas, we wanted to do something about that in our BHF shops. By identifying the perfect Secret Santa presents, we hope to take the stress out of shopping and provide unique, high-quality gifts at a fraction of the cost.”
The BHF’s initiative not only encourages thoughtful gifting but also promotes sustainability. Purchasing pre-loved items reduces waste and supports the charity’s mission to fund lifesaving heart research. In addition, shoppers can feel good knowing their purchase is contributing to a charitable cause.
The charity also revealed that the week before Christmas is its busiest period for book sales, with sales reaching over £150,000 last year alone. For those looking for the perfect gift, the BHF’s shops offer a wide variety of options, from vintage books to unusual and quirky items that can’t be found on the high street.
Matt Ralph, a business analyst from Bristol and charity shop enthusiast, shared his love of charity shopping, especially when it comes to finding one-of-a-kind gifts. “I love buying presents from charity shops, particularly when I’m not sure what to get someone,” he said. “The great thing about charity shops is the range of different gift ideas. They’re not full of the generic stuff you find in other high street stores.”
Ralph also recommended visiting multiple charity shops with friends to make a day of it. “Shopping with friends is the best. You never know what someone will find, and it’s always fun when one of them pulls out a great, unexpected gift.”
To find your nearest British Heart Foundation shop and discover the perfect Secret Santa gift, visit BHF Shop Locator.
