Can a charity shop be called a charity shop if its not actually a charity?

A question about : Can a charity shop be called a charity shop if its not actually a charity?

Near where I live there is a charity shop for cats.. Most people would assume it was Cats Protection as the shop sign has .org.uk on its website (which doesnt exist) and the place has Charity shop for cat rescue sign outside..

A look on Charity Comm website doesnt bring up anything about it being a charity. Infact, all I could find out is that its a local cat rescue place that has about 10 cats.

Best answers:

• I don't know the answer but perhaps your local trading standards would know?
• Have you asked them who they are giving money to? Some people are just terrible at promoting themselves.
• Ask them for their charity reference number.