Newport East MP Jessica Morden has confirmed that the British Heart Foundation outlet in Newport, South Wales, will remain open but requires backing from local shoppers and donors to stay afloat.

The retailer, long established on Commercial Street, is appealing for community assistance amid worries that it could fall victim to the charity’s programme to shut approximately 150 outlets throughout the country within the next two years. While the store has not been included in the initial round of shutdowns, concerns persist that a subsequent phase of closures could affect it.

Mrs Morden is encouraging Newport residents to offer their backing and contribute items to help preserve the shop.

In a Facebook post, Mrs Morden explained that misleading information had circulated online and stressed that the city centre location remains operational, though it does need assistance from the public. She outlined steps supporters can take, such as visiting the shop to purchase goods including games, toys, clothing, household items and CDs. She also urged people to bring their unwanted items to the store during opening hours.

A statement from the Newport team clarified that recent news coverage had been incorrectly associated with their location. They pointed out that reports about store closures actually referred to Newport on the Isle of Wight. The team noted that while they had avoided the first phase of shutdowns, a second phase remains planned and they are keen to demonstrate that local demand justifies keeping the outlet open. They emphasised that each donation, each sale and each social media share helps show that Newport values its British Heart Foundation shop.

Operating as one of Britain’s largest charitable retail chains, the BHF finances research into heart and circulatory conditions through income from its store network. The programme of closures forms part of an effort to create a more financially viable retail structure nationwide. Approximately 90 outlets are anticipated to shut by the conclusion of March 2027, with additional closures scheduled for March 2028.