Clothes exchange hopes to help struggling families and reduce waste

Fast fashion and cheap clothing have become widely-discussed topics, threatening our environment and targeting those struggling with money.

But a clothing exchange initiative in Newbury is hoping to become the solution.

The cost-of-living crisis has meant that many people have cut back on spending money on luxuries – including clothing items.

Now, for £3 or in exchange for a bag of their own unused clothes, people can take second-hand – and even some new- clothes home with them.

The event – which takes place fortnightly – is held at the Kennet Christian Centre.

When the exchange first began last year, only a few people were coming through the door but as word got around, interest grew and there are now people queueing outside.

And the response so far has been nothing but positive said organiser Gill Nobes.

She said: “People love coming, they say it has got a really good atmosphere.

“I had never heard of clothing exchanges before.

“During lockdown I got the feeling that I wanted to help others, I could see that people were struggling.

“We now have a band of volunteers, it is lovely for people to do something together.

“We have all also been influenced by consumerism, online and buying clothes and I certainly have done that.

“I think to myself you don’t need all these things.

“This is a great thing to do if you feel guilty about your global footprint.”