Donate Your Pre-Loved Sportswear to Help People Get Active

sportscotland's Kit for All initiative launches in Orkney, tackling both the cost of sports kit and textile waste.

Orkney Islands Council's Sport & Leisure and Community Learning & Development teams are bringing sportscotland's Kit for All initiative to Orkney, inviting the community to donate pre-loved sportswear to help remove financial barriers to sport and physical activity.

The initiative aims to tackle two pressing challenges: the cost of sports clothing, which prevents many people from participating in physical activity, and the environmental impact of textile waste. Over 60% of UK households have unwanted clothes stored at home, and by creating a safe space for people to donate and collect pre-loved kit, the scheme helps make sport more accessible whilst reducing landfill waste.

Running from 3rd November, with collection continuing until 5th December or until donation points reach capacity, the campaign aims to collect sportswear for both children and adults. All donated items will be redistributed free of charge to individuals and families who need them most.

Katell Roché, Sport & Leisure Team Manager at Orkney Islands Council, said: "We're delighted to bring the Kit for All initiative to Orkney. For many families, the cost of sports kit can be a significant barrier to participation, whether that's keeping up with growing children or wanting to try a new sport or activity.

"This campaign means we can connect good-quality second-hand sportswear with those who need it, ensuring that lack of kit doesn't stop anyone from being active."

Donation points have been established at four locations across Orkney:

•  KGS Sports Centre
• The Pickaquoy Centre
• Stromness Swimming Pool & Fitness Centre
• Dounby Centre

Donation bins have been provided by the Council's Waste Services team, reflecting the initiative's dual focus on increasing access to sport and reducing textile waste.

All donations must be clean and in wearable condition. The initiative particularly seeks everyday sportswear items that can be used for PE lessons, after-school activities, community sports clubs and general physical activity.

The campaign forms part of the Council’s commitment to increasing access to sport and physical activity for all, whilst supporting environmental sustainability through reuse and recycling.