Mencap is taking over four shops previously run by a charity that closed late last year, as part of efforts to expand its retail operation.

The four shops, in Chessington, Stoneleigh, Shepperton and Claygate in Surrey and South West London, were run by Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for Disabled People (QEF), which has closed down amid a “challenging financial situation”.

QEF staff at the shops are also set to transfer to Mencap.

The charity’s executive director of inclusive communities and partnerships Alison Pike said the move “brings us a step closer to our 2030 goal of doubling the number of Mencap shops, and we hope to grow even more in 2026”.

She added: “We’re excited to be opening four new Mencap shops, and to welcome colleagues who previously worked with the Queen Elizabeth Foundation.

“This is a great opportunity to raise more money to support people with a learning disability to live the life they choose.”

In announcing its closure last year, QEF said: “We have worked tirelessly over the last year to try and save the charity, exploring numerous options to improve its finances, but unfortunately there wasn’t a viable solution that met all the necessary requirements to overcome the challenging financial situation QEF faced.

“It has been our privilege to support disabled people for over 90 years, providing expert services that have changed many lives, and we are deeply saddened that it cannot continue.

“Our priorities right now are to work with funding bodies to ensure clients find suitable alternative placements and to support our remarkable staff during this difficult time.”

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