Welcome to the coat exchange scheme

In response to the ongoing cost of living crisis and the environmental impact of the textile industry*, the Coat Exchange scheme offers a sustainable way to get a “new” coat and to support residents who may otherwise go without a warm coat this winter.

By promoting a circular economy, we aim to extend the life of garments, reduce waste, and keep quality clothing in circulation and out of landfill. 

The scheme will be operating from community venues across the borough throughout the autumn and winter. 

The coat exchange scheme will be launching in October 2026.

How to donate

Residents are kindly asked to donate unwanted or outgrown warm winter coats that are in good, clean condition at any of the community venues taking part.

How to get a coat

Everyone is welcome to visit any of the community coat exchange venues during their regular opening hours and select from the coats on offer free of charge.  There is no need to donate to take, but you can do both if you wish. 

Coat donations

Donations of the below items are welcomed in sizes suitable for babies, children and adults: 

• Winter coats
• Parkas
• Fleece jackets
• Waterproofs
• Thermal jackets 
• Puffy/down jackets
• Trench coats
• All in ones

Venues can only accept good quality coats for redistribution. They cannot accept:  

• Items with holes or tears
• Items with stains or heavy wear
• Dirty or unwashed clothing 
• Non-seasonal items
• Promotional or corporate-logo items 
• Personalised items (name tags)
• Items with broken zips, fastenings or buttons

Please visit venues involved in the coat exchange scheme for details of all venues participitating in the scheme.

If you are struggling with the cost of living, please visit our cost of living support web page or complete our cost of living contact form and a member of our team will be in contact.

For further information about the coat exchange email warm.welcome@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk

*Approximately 1.45 million tonnes of used textiles were generated in the UK in 2022, with almost half of these (an average of 35 items per person per year) being disposed of in general waste. ”Source: The price of our addiction to cheap fast fashion as pressure builds on UK second hand clothing market (wrap.ngo)"

Last updated: 28/09/2026 11:19