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Welcome to the coat exchange scheme
What is 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 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 October and November.
* Every year in the UK, around 350,000 tonnes of clothing, worth £140 million, ends up in landfill. Choosing a pre-loved coat helps protect natural resources, reduce climate impact, and save you money. Visit valuing our clothes: the cost of UK fashion (wrap.ngo) for more information on the impact this is causing.
How to donate
You 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 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.
Coats will be moved around the borough, so they will be made available in a different location to where they were originally donated.
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
Coat exchange venues
View the list of coat exchange venues and their opening times:
Please note: If we reach our maximum capacity in terms of numbers of coats, we may have to refuse donations.
Find out more about coat exchange
If you require more information about the coat exchange scheme, please get in touch: Warm welcome contact form
Struggling with the cost of living?
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.
Last updated: 02/10/2025 11:22
