Whipton Community Clothes Swap

by Jemima (Whipton Community Builder)

The Whipton Community Clothes Swap was a real community effort with people and groups from across Whipton getting involved to make it a success.

Whipton Social Club, St Katherine’s Priory, St Boniface Church, Whipton Hall and Whipton Chapel all acted as drop-off points for clothing. Volunteers also collected items from those who were unable to drop off. We received thousands and thousands of items - an overwhelming response.

As one resident put it: “The clothes swap was brilliant - I've never seen so many bags of clothes. It was unbelievable how many great things were donated and a great turnout. I'm looking forward to doing it again!”

The event itself was hosted free of charge by Whipton Social Club. Recycle Devon lent us their clothes swap kit of rails and mirrors and residents lent rails and hangers too.

Volunteers were central and worked to sort, hang items, create signs and set up, as well as restocking rails and keeping things running smoothly. It was a great team effort including getting everything packed up at the end.

People swapped shoes, coats, accessories, children’s and baby clothes, and both men’s and women’s clothing in every size. There was a real mix of ages and households taking part.

One parent shared: “The clothes swap was wonderful for my daughter (teen). She's just developing her own sense of style and it was so lovely for her to be able to have the freedom to choose things without worrying about the cost. She came back to me so excited with big armfuls of clothing.”

Another said: “That was the best thing I’ve been to in years. It was literally my dream come true having so much great clothing that I could just help myself to.”

Residents recognised both the environmental and social value:

• “Such a wonderful idea, easy, sustainable way to refresh our wardrobes. I look forward to coming again! :)”

• “Brilliant idea - great to get people together chatting and recycle clothing the easy way. Thank you!”

• “Absolutely marvellous idea and wonderful people putting it together. Thanks!”

• “Fantastic, what a great event in our local community. Met some great people. Thanks”

• “Amazing event! I got loads of original pre-loved baby clothes and some lovely things for myself. Great to explore a new venue to me! Thanks x”

• “Great idea! Needs doing again Spring/Summer.”

By the end of the day, eight residents had signed up to become part of a Whipton Clothes Swap Crew, giving us a strong foundation for future events.

The event was completely free to attend with donations collected for local charity Louie’s Helping Hands. Remaining items were passed on to Sue Ryder by the Devon and Dorset regiment with children’s clothing going to Jelly Children's Charity Shop.

The next Clothes Swap is planned for Reuse Week on Sunday 9 August. With community locations involved, committed volunteers and clear demand from residents, it seems that clothes swaps may become a regular, community-led initiative in Whipton.