Barnardo's, the children's charity, has started an innovative new scheme that will see Irish retailers donating new goods for sale through the charity's chain of shops.

The scheme, known as "Barnardos Brand New", represents a first for the charity sector, with retailers and wholesalers being encouraged to donate unsold or end-of-line goods.

Funds raised will be used to support Barnardo's work with vulnerable children and families.

The new model has been implemented on a trial basis in the Barnardo's Liffey Valley store and bridal boutique in Dún Laoghaire, and the charity hopes to extend it across it network.

Speaking yesterday at the launch of the initiative, Fergus Finlay, chief executive of the charity, said: "We hope that through the generosity of retailers who donate unsold brand-new goods to our shops, we can offer something unique in the low-cost market and contribute substantially to our fund-raising income each year."

Mr Finlay said "consumer power" had bypassed many families struggling to make ends meet. He said double-digit increases in household bills had not been offset by income support for those most in need.

Dermot O'Leary of Goodbody Stockbrokers spoke on the changing shape of household finances in the State, pointing out that the rapid growth in income over the past decade had been matched by increased consumption.

"Notwithstanding significant price inflation over the past decade that has placed Ireland as the most expensive country in the euro zone, disposable incomes remain buoyant and spending continues to grow."