Animal Welfare Furness to permanently close Barrow charity shop
Animal Welfare Furness has announced the permanent closure of its charity shop in Barrow.
The local charity said the decision had been extremely difficult but was needed to protect its wider animal rescue work.
Its shop in Ulverston will remain open, while the organisation will continue rescuing, caring for and rehoming animals across the Furness area.
Charity says decision will protect rescue services
Animal Welfare Furness described the announcement as an “important update” and said the Barrow retail shop would close permanently.
The charity said it understood how much the shop had meant to customers, volunteers and supporters over the years.
However, trustees said the closure was necessary to protect the future of the organisation and make sure its limited funds could continue supporting animals in need.
The charity’s work includes taking in unwanted and distressed animals, providing care and finding suitable new homes. It also supports local owners who are struggling with veterinary costs and other pressures linked to caring for their pets.
Ulverston shop will remain open
Supporters will still be able to visit the charity’s Ulverston shop, which will continue raising money for its animal welfare services.
The organisation said this branch would continue to welcome support from customers and donors following the closure in Barrow.
Animal Welfare Furness has previously operated shops in both Barrow and Ulverston alongside its rescue cattery in Rawlinson Street.
The Barrow operation moved from 210 Dalton Road to new premises at 122 Dalton Road in November 2025.
Charity has served Furness for decades
Animal Welfare Furness was set up by local volunteers to protect animals and help owners throughout the Furness and South Lakes area.
The organisation provides sanctuary for animals that have been abandoned, mistreated or can no longer remain with their owners.
It also works with local veterinary practices and other rescue organisations. Its aim is to make sure an animal’s needs come before the cost of treatment or care.
The charity says it does not put healthy animals to sleep and works to rehabilitate those that arrive sick or injured before finding them permanent homes.
Public support remains important
Like many small animal charities, Animal Welfare Furness relies heavily on donations, shop income, volunteers and fundraising.
Figures published by the Charity Commission show the organisation recorded an income of £203,038 during the financial year ending December 31, 2024. Its expenditure during the same period was £244,661.
The charity thanked everyone who had supported the Barrow shop, including its customers, donors, staff and volunteers.
Although the retail branch is closing, its rescue and rehoming work will continue, supported by the remaining Ulverston shop and donations from the community.
