Many families in Edinburgh are finding the cost of purchasing a new school uniform completely unaffordable. For some children, this means going to school in an ill-fitting or worn-out uniform.
For others, it means resorting to wearing non-school uniform items. Standing out from their peers in this way has the potential to result in a negative school experience and can impact a pupilโs ability to learn and thrive.
Thatโs according to The Leith Collective, who have been approached by a growing number of teachers and parents calling for help. And so, as the current school term draws to a close, this Community Interest Company is launching a free school uniform exchange, so every pupil can start the new term in August with everything they need to see them through a successful school year.
Taking place at The Leith Collective stores in Edinburghโs Ocean Terminal and Fort Kinnaird as well as the Livingston Designer Outlet and Dundeeโs Overgate, the team behind this initiative are asking locals to donate good quality uniforms, coats, gym kits, shoes, schoolbags, pencil cases and any other school essentials so they can distribute them to those in need.
But thatโs not all. The Leith Collection is calling on local businesses to donate surplus stock where possible, with those taking part in the exchange receiving a community support certificate in recognition of their contribution.
Speaking ahead of the launch, The Leith Collective founder, Sara Thomson said;
โFrom an environmental point of view, it is so important to keep good quality uniforms out of landfill and in use for as long as possible. And from a personal point of view, Iโve heard first-hand accounts from teachers and parents about what a negative effect it can have on families when they simply canโt afford school essentials, and itโs heartbreaking.
โThis is the third year weโre running our free school uniform exchange and people need it more than ever. Thatโs why weโre widening our call this year and asking for businesses to get on board too to help those in need.โ
People can donate and collect items, no questions asked, at The Leith Collective in Ocean Terminal, Fort Kinnaird, Livingston Designer Outlet and Overgate during opening hours. The hope is to help as many pupils as possible get off to the best possible start when the new academic year begins in August.
