Billy Goat calls for action children's shoe fitting services

Billy Goat in Alresford is backing a national call urging the government to support the specialist trade, warning that rising costs threaten its survival and leave families without essential foot care for children.

Jo Hemsley, owner of Billy Goat. (Image: Supplied)

Jo Hemsley, owner of Billy Goat, said: "We have been helping families from across Hampshire by providing a measuring and shoe fitting service for nearly 12 years.

"However, the rising business rates, energy bills and National Insurance contributions are placing increasing financial pressure on businesses, making it difficult to provide specialist services free of charge while maintaining a financially sustainable business."

Billy Goat is one of 53 member shops of The Footwear Hub, a not-for-profit set up by qualified shoe fitters to raise standards in children’s shoe fitting.

The Footwear Hub has written to the Chancellor, copying in the Prime Minister, ahead of the Budget on Wednesday October 28, calling for business rates reform, national shoe-fitting guidance and support for specialist training.

Tanya Marriott, co-founder of The Footwear Hub, said: "Every week, fitters across the country see children in shoes that are too small, with parents who had no idea."

Parents can find advice and a list of member shops at footwearhub.org.