A CHARITY shop in Kenilworth is urging people to donate unworn clothes after figures revealed UK consumers are hoarding some 1.5billion items.
New polling from disability equality charity Scope estimates the average West Midlands adult is hoarding seven unworn tops in their wardrobe, while just under 30 per cent have more than five unused pairs of footwear.
The statistics, which combine figures from the Office of National Statistics with Scope’s own research, come as the charity launches its National Stock Campaign – #ShareTheScope – to encourage the public to clear out their wardrobes and donate their pre-loved garments.
The campaign calls for people to dig out any items they are unlikely to wear again and donate them to Scope so they can go to a new home. The charity estimates every bag of donations is worth £20.
Scope has been operating in Kenilworth for 25 years, including 12 years at its current site at Talisman Shopping Centre.
Its services range from a helpline, an online community, support to work programmes and, support services for families with disabled children.
Spokeswoman Ruth Blazye said: “We’re asking the public to have a rummage through their wardrobes and pull out anything they’ve fallen out of love with. Be ruthless, you’ll love the space you get back and our shops will make sure they find a good home once more.
“Your donations are essential to Scope, they allow us to provide vital support services for disabled people and their families. 150,000 bags of your pre-loved donations can help us run all our family, employment and information and advice services for a year.
“While you’re dropping your bags off to your local Scope shop, you could always do a spot of treasure hunting in the shop too, there’s always a hidden gem to be found.”
Spokesman for the Talisman Shopping Centre Hugo Hawkings added: “This is a fantastic and worthwhile initiative from Scope that many of us can get behind by putting our ignored and forgotten items to good use in raising funds to support people with disabilities and their families.
“This is an opportunity to support a cause that has been operating in Kenilworth for more than 25 years, and it would be great to see people in the local area giving what they can.”
Scopes’ tips to help with a cupboard clear out:
The three-year rule – if you’ve not worn it in three years, time to donate it.
If it looks better on your son or daughter than it does on you, it’s time to let it go.
If something still doesn’t fit you despite endless diet goals, donate it to someone else.
If donating cash to a charity is a bit of a stretch for you, old clothes can help raise money instead.
If you’ve made changes in your lifestyle or work some items may no longer be useful. If so consider giving it a new home.
Being sustainably-conscious will make you feel good and make valuable space in your wardrobe. Give your garments the chance to live on with someone else and help save the environment.
Finally, don’t feel bad about giving away novelty jumper Auntie Maureen bought you for Christmas. Instead of it languishing at the back of your wardrobe, let it go – it could make a perfect Secret Santa gift for someone.
