The friendliness of Scottish people was always something to be proud of. And now, with the cost of living crisis, rising bills and the cold months creeping over our shoulders, many people are left with deep worry. While the average person probably cannot solve the whole economic crisis, people can still lend each other a helping hand, even if it is in the form of donating a coat. On Wednesday, October 1, The Leith Collective launched its free coat exchange across its four Scottish stores.
The coats will be available for anyone to collect at Ocean Terminal and Fort Kinnaird, completely free of charge, no questions asked. Basically, if you need a coat, just take a coat.
And those who have any spare, good-quality winter coats or waterproof jackets they are willing to part with are encouraged to bring them over. What is more, the brand is looking to expand the initiative across the UK to help as many people as possible.
Businesses, organisations, charities and community groups are encouraged to join the charitable initiative by becoming a Local Coat Exchange Collection Point. Those interested can sign up on the Re-Relove website, where those in need can also search for their local collection points.
It is not The Leith Collective’s first rodeo at the free coat exchange. It all started in January 2022, and throughout the rest of the year, it proved to be a genuine lifeline for many individuals and families who were unable to afford a warm and comfortable coat to protect themselves from the elements. And with the current economic climate, this winter is set to be even worse for those struggling.
Last year alone, The Leith Collective was responsible for redistributing more than 11,000 coats to those in need as part of their annual Winter Coat Exchange.
The Leith Collective founder, Sara Thomson, said: “The number of families struggling to afford even basic essentials such as a warm winter coat is heartbreaking. So, this year we want our Winter Coat Exchange to be more accessible than ever. We want to see official Winter Coat Exchange Collection Points in every town and city across Scotland so that coats can be kept out of landfill and passed on to those who truly need them.”
One organisation keen to sign up to the scheme once again this year is the Edinburgh CIC, Let the People Sing. Founder Vicky Scoular said: “Many people struggling to make ends meet simply can’t afford to travel to pick up a coat, so it’s important that as many organisations as possible sign up to become an official Winter Coat Exchange Collection Point to make it accessible. We all have an important part to play in the fight against poverty.”
What is more, the coat exchange provides a way to promote sustainability and prevent good quality coats from ending up in landfill. So, while tackling the cost of living crisis, The Leith Collective will also manage to simultaneously aid the climate crisis. Every little counts and we should all chip in to help wherever we can. It’s amazing to see that the people of Edinburgh care!
Where can I find The Leith Collective in Edinburgh?
Practical information
The Leith Collective at Ocean Terminal
Ocean Drive, Edinburgh
EH6 6JJ
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 11am – 6pm, and Sunday 11am – 5pm
The Leith Collective at Fort Kinnaird
Newcraighall, Edinburgh
EH15 3RD
Opening hours: 10am – 8pm seven days a week
Additionally, those who wish to donate or take a coat can find donation points on the we-relove website.