Free Edinburgh School Uniform Exchange Launched by The Leith Collective

Teachers Warn: Edinburgh School Uniform Costs Are Leaving Pupils Behind

Many families in Edinburgh are struggling to afford new school uniforms, with some pupils starting the school year in worn-out clothing — or none at all!

The rising cost of school essentials has left children feeling singled out and unable to fully participate in school life, say teachers and parents who have turned to The Leith Collective for help.

The Leith Collective launches free school uniform exchange to help families in need

In response, the not-for-profit organisation is relaunching its free Edinburgh school uniform exchange — an initiative that ensures every child can start the new academic year feeling confident and fully equipped.

The exchange will be open throughout the summer at The Leith Collective stores in Ocean Terminal, Fort Kinnaird, Livingston Designer Outlet, and Dundee’s Overgate Centre. Locals are encouraged to donate good-quality uniforms, coats, shoes, PE kits, schoolbags, pencil cases, and other school-related items. These will then be distributed, free of charge, to families in need — no questions asked.

Founder Sara Thomson explained:

“We’ve heard from so many parents and teachers about the emotional toll this takes on families. No child should feel excluded or embarrassed just because their family can’t afford school basics. And from an environmental point of view, reusing uniforms keeps perfectly good clothing out of landfill.”

This is the third year The Leith Collective has run the free school clothing exchange, and demand is higher than ever. To help meet that need, local businesses are also being asked to donate any surplus stock or useful supplies. Those who take part will receive a Community Support Certificate as a thank-you.

The school uniform exchange is available during normal store opening hours at the following locations:

📍 The Leith Collective Locations

Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh
Mon–Sat: 11am–6pm | Sun: 11am–5pm

Fort Kinnaird, Edinburgh
Open daily: 10am–8pm

Livingston Designer Outlet
Mon: 9am–7pm | Tue–Wed: 9am–6pm | Thu–Sat: 9am–8pm | Sun: 9am–6pm

Overgate Centre, Dundee
Open daily: 10am–6pm

The Leith Collective supports over 400 independent artists and makers across its four locations, promoting sustainability through reuse, recycling, and community action. To learn more, visit www.theleithcollective.com or email info@theleithcollective.com.