Coat exchange scheme to launch

Across October and November, residents will be able to donate and/or collect used coats in good condition from locations across the borough.

The scheme aims to reduce the cost-of-living burden for local people, while an upturn in reusing and recycling will have a positive environmental impact.

There will be 20 venues accepting donations. Of these, 11 will also host a clothing rail from which residents can collect coats and jackets, free of charge.

Residents will not need to donate a coat to collect a coat, and there will be no limit on the number of garments people can take, within reason. Donations of warm coats and waterproofs for all ages will be accepted – from babies upwards.

Once donated, coats will be moved around the borough before being available for collection. This is so nobody will have their new coat recognised locally by the previous owner.

Any surplus coats at the end of the scheme will be donated to local charities and schemes supporting vulnerable residents. 

Acceptable items:

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

Unacceptable items:

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

Cllr Michael Mullaney, Executive Member for Community Safety, said: "Following the success of our school uniform swap shops, it’s fantastic to see the same spirit of community being extended to the coat exchange initiative.

“I would like to thank everyone who is making this possible — from those generously donating coats to the dedicated volunteers supporting the exchange across our venues.”