The popular Outdoor Clothing Swap Shop will return this autumn, encouraging folk to donate unwanted winter clothing and waterproofs, for people to enjoy nature and stay active in the colder months.
The joint initiative by Shetland Islands Council and RSPB Shetland, now in its third year, will take place on a Saturday this year, rather than a Sunday, following community feedback. Through the Council’s Sport and Leisure Service and RSPB Shetland, the appeal aims to collect good quality pre-loved outdoor clothing and footwear which will then be made available free of charge at the community swap event.
The appeal is now open for donations of warm and waterproof outdoor clothing, including jackets, trousers, all-in-one outdoor suits, hats, gloves, scarves, wellies, boots, and other outdoor footwear. Donations can be dropped off at 'Kit for All' collection points located at Shetland Recreational Trust centres throughout the isles. All items should be clean, in good condition and suitable for reuse.
This year's Outdoor Clothing Swap Shop will take place in the Gilbertson Park Games Hall on Saturday 7 November, from 11am to 2pm. It’s hoped that having the event on the same weekend as the Shetland Craft Fair in Lerwick will also attract more families and individuals from across Shetland.
The Outdoor Clothing Swap Shop is free to attend, and relies on community generosity, with donated items being redistributed to people who can make use of them. Everyone is welcome to come along and browse the available items. Organisers also hope the event will continue to promote sustainable reuse, helping quality outdoor clothing find a new home while reducing waste.
Ali Robertson, Community Engagement Officer with RSPB Shetland, said: "Access to nature should be available to everyone, but the cost of suitable outdoor clothing can sometimes be a barrier. Having warm, waterproof clothing can make a huge difference to people's confidence and comfort when spending time outdoors, especially during the winter months. By donating surplus clothing, we can help people to enjoy the many benefits of being outdoors, from improving physical and mental wellbeing to connecting with nature and our local environment."
Louise Jamieson, Active Schools Manager at Shetland Islands Council, said: "Last year's Swap Shop was incredibly well supported, and we received some excellent feedback. We hope this year’s Saturday date will work well for those who wish to come along too. Before that can happen, we need the community's help to fill the rails with donated outdoor clothing and footwear, so we'd encourage anyone having a clear out to consider donating their pre-loved items."