Collectively known as the House of Baukjen, sustainably and socially conscious online maternitywear and womenswear brands, Isabella Oliver and Baukjen, have swapped deals for good deeds this Black Friday. The company will, therefore, donate all profits over the four-day shopping weekend (27-30 November) to a combination of four charities, honouring its commitment to give back.

The B Corp, slow fashion business comprising of two UK based premium fashion brands has decided to go against the aggressive discounting this year. Boycotting consumerism, it will instead partner with a different charity each day, from Black Friday through to Cyber Monday. One hundred per cent of profits from both websites will then go to social causes in the UK.

The chosen charities include Centrepoint, supporting youth homelessness; The Trussell Trust, working to end the need for food banks in the UK; national suicide prevention charity, PAPYRUS; and also the Prince’s Trust, helping the young build skills and confidence to find employment during this critical time.

Commenting is House of Baukjen’s creative director and founder, Baukjen de Swaan Arons. “It’s been such a difficult year. As an ethical and sustainable brand, we don’t feel its right to participate and encourage hyper-consumerism.

“We believe in buying less and buying better; which is why this year, we want to give back and really make a difference. We have partnered with charities we feel really support our brand values and are key beneficiaries during these uncertain times.”

At present, suicide is the biggest killer of young people under the age of 35 in the UK. Every year more than 200 school children are also lost to suicide.

 

 

Commenting is Ged Flynn, chief executive of PAPYRUS (Prevention of Young Suicide). “The support and generosity of the House of Baukjen will help us to continue giving hope to young people who are struggling with life.

“Money raised will help to pay for potentially life-saving calls, texts and emails to our confidential HOPELINEUK service, which offers support and advice to young people and anyone worried about a young person who may be having thoughts of suicide.”

Over 100,000 young people in the UK who are homeless or at risk of homelessness approach their local authority each year. Centrepoint estimates rough sleeping across England has increased by 141% since 2010.

Centrepoint’s senior corporate development manager, Lucy Coleman, comments; “This Christmas, it’s estimated that over 23,000 young people will be at risk of homelessness across the UK. Centrepoint is facing an incredibly challenging time. The pandemic and the subsequent recession mean more and more young people have lost their jobs, their homes, and will be forced to experience homelessness.

“We are so grateful for the generous support from Baukjen, Isabella Oliver and their customers. The money raised will help us to continue to provide our vital services to young people who need us most. And ultimately, help end youth homelessness for good.”

House of Baukjen’s Black Friday charity campaign runs from 27-30 November on both IsabellaOliver.com and Baukjen.com. During these dates, 100% of profits will go to charity.