The initiative gives residents the chance to donate good-quality, pre-loved school uniform items and take what they need free of charge, helping families prepare for the new school year while reducing textile waste. The scheme has already proved a huge success.

Last year, more than 850 school uniform items were given a second life, helping families save an estimated £27,000 while keeping perfectly usable clothing out of the waste stream.

Councillor Graham Minshull, South Norfolk Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said:

The School Uniform Swap Shops are a simple way to help families save money while reducing waste. Uniforms often have plenty of wear left in them, so passing them on benefits both local families and the environment."

Councillor Jan Davis, Broadland District Council’s Cabinet Member for Environmental Excellence, added:

The cost of school uniforms can quickly add up, particularly for larger families. This scheme provides practical support, while also showing the value of communities helping each other."

Swap shops will be available at:

South Norfolk

• Wymondham Leisure Centre
• Long Stratton Leisure Centre
• Diss Swim Centre
• The Willow Centre, Cringleford

Broadland

• Acle Recreation Centre
• Sprowston Diamond Centre

School Uniform Swaps will also be popping up at Family Fun Days throughout the summer in both districts. Follow the councils' social media channels for dates, locations and details.

The scheme is open to everyone, with no requirement to donate items before taking uniforms, ensuring support is available to families who need it most. Residents are encouraged to drop off clean, good-quality school uniform items they no longer need and browse the available stock before the start of the autumn term.

By giving uniforms a second life, the initiative helps reduce waste, encourages reuse and ensures good-quality clothing continues to benefit local families rather than ending up in the bin. Find out more about our Uniform Swap Shops.