Sheffield Shop Sells Pre-Loved Clothes From 50p

A community shop in Sheffield is selling second-hand clothes for as little as 50p to help families under pressure from the cost of living. The Echo project is based at York House in Manor Top and stocks coats, shoes, sportswear and school uniforms.

It is run by Manor and Castle Development Trust together with Uni-Recycle, a community interest company that collects school uniforms and redistributes them cheaply. The organisers want affordable clothing to be open to everyone, and want to challenge the stigma that can attach to buying second-hand.

Dawn Dale, the trust's community development manager, said the name reflects the aim of giving items a second life through reuse. Low prices are meant to help people who need the clothes, she said, not to bring in income. The idea grew partly from the cost of living crisis and concern about clothing going to landfill. "In our community there was quite a lot of stigma around second-hand clothing at that point," she said.

Shop-style advice from John Lewis

Brands such as John Lewis helped the team build a boutique-style shop, Dale said. They advised on displays and donated rails. The aim is a shopping trip where people find more than uniforms. "While you're here looking for a school uniform, mum might see a jacket, dad might see some trainers," she said.

Kelly Anne Bell, who runs the shops, said some uniforms arrive with the labels still on. One dress that costs £14 new is offered for 50p. "This project supports so many families because school uniforms are so expensive," she said.

The shop on City Road also helps people take part in physical activity. Lucy Warren, the trust's chief executive, said the cost of trainers and gym wear can stop some people getting involved.

The trust has operated for almost 30 years and has about 45 staff. Its work covers toddler groups, dementia support, physical health and mental wellbeing services, employment support, training and benefits advice. York House doubles as a place to meet. Visitors looking for a blouse may be offered a cup of tea and a seat to do some crafting, Dale said.

Shopper Kelly Prior said the project was needed locally. "You can get everything here. I'm always a bargain hunter," she said.

Source: BBC News