New CRA charity member Madad UK’s first shop was officially opened by Peter Taylor, Elected Mayor of Watford on 14 June 2025. From concept to official opening, Madad were able to open their Watford shop in just under three months.
Madad UK was originally set up in 1982 as a Muslim charity in Bedford, now helping people regardless of their faith.
Entirely staffed by volunteers, the shop sells a variety of pre-loved furniture, clothing, bric-a-brac and antiques. Funds raised go to grants of up to £50 towards food, utilities and clothing for the vulnerable and disadvantaged in the region.
As a cost of living crisis hub, they are expanding their work with local partners to signpost for housing, financial literacy and other advice relevant to those struggling with spiralling costs.
Working with The Charity Shop Gift Card and ZeroPA - a social impact micro-finance lender - Madad are able to offer ‘Buy now pay later’-style finance in up to 12 instalments under one year without interest, fees or charges. They can finance purchases of £50-£150 towards purchases of clothing, white goods, furniture, and small electricals by loading the funds on to a Charity Shop Gift Card to be spent in store.
If you would like to know more about this partnership, contact Saqhib Ali via saqhib@madad.co.uk or 01923 939124.
