Darlington: The Darlington Uniform Exchange has been helping families since 2020 by offering affordable school uniforms. Run by Darlington Cares, the initiative aims to expand its services while seeking volunteers to assist with distribution, highlighting financial savings and environmental benefits amidst the cost-of-living crisis.
Darlington Uniform Exchange, situated at Beaumont Street within the Feethams Multi-storey Car Park, has played a significant role in providing affordable school uniforms to families since its inception in 2020. The initiative, which operates under the umbrella of Darlington Cares, has successfully rehomed thousands of uniforms, saving families considerable amounts of money amidst challenging economic circumstances.
Operating on weekdays from 10am to 1pm, the Uniform Exchange is currently assessing the possibility of extending its hours to accommodate more families in need. The organisers are actively seeking additional volunteers to support this effort. Speaking to The Northern Echo, Sarah Small, the Darlington Partnership Programme Officer, emphasised the financial burden that school uniforms can impose on families, highlighting that “some school uniforms can cost up to £250 per child, and most children outgrow them long before they wear out.”
Small further noted the dual benefits of the initiative: “The Uniform Exchange is not only a lifeline for families wanting to save money during the cost-of-living crisis, but it’s also a far greener alternative to ‘fast fashion’ and unnecessary waste.” Currently, the initiative is supported by a dedicated team of approximately 15 volunteers. However, to facilitate expansion, particularly to include weekend hours, additional help is required.
All donated uniforms, as well as coats and shoes, are meticulously sorted and quality-checked by volunteers before undergoing professional cleaning by In a Spin Laundry Services. Following this process, the items are made available at no cost to those who require them. During the previous year, the Exchange distributed over 13,000 garments to around 4,200 families, demonstrating its impact on the local community.
Volunteer Penny Jennings, who joined the initiative in 2022 after having worked in schools for 15 years, expressed her perspective on the programme. She stated, “I saw first-hand how many families struggle to afford uniforms. At the same time, we’re all trying to be greener, so why not re-use perfectly good clothes? I really enjoy coming here and doing my bit for Darlington and the environment.”
Small further encouraged community involvement, noting, “We just need people who can spare three hours a week. That’s all it takes to help make a huge difference to families in Darlington.”
For those interested in contributing to the Darlington Uniform Exchange, volunteer opportunities are available by contacting Sarah Small via email. Additionally, individuals wishing to donate uniforms can do so at various drop-off points across the area, including The Dolphin Centre, The Cornmill Centre, Cockerton Club, Eastbourne Park Community Hub, Firthmoor Community Centre, and In a Spin Laundry Services.
Source: Noah Wire Services
