Shetland Islands Council and RSPB Shetland have launched an appeal that aims to remove barriers to nature this winter by redistributing unwanted outdoor clothing.
Staff involved with the Council’s Sport and Leisure Services ‘Kit for All’ initiative and the Active Schools team are collaborating with RSPB Shetland to launch a special appeal for donations of outdoor clothing.
The hope is to gather and redistribute outdoor clothing, so more people in Shetland have access to appropriate outdoor wear this winter.
The appeal aims to gather pre-loved, good quality outdoor clothing during the month of October, culminating in an ‘Outdoor Clothing Swap’ in the Gilbertson Park Games Hall on Sunday 24th November from 11am to 3pm.
Everyone is welcome to attend this free event to build up their winter wardrobes.
It is hoped other organisations will also attend the event to share information about various support services available throughout the isles over the winter months.
Donations of the following items – for children and adults – would be greatly appreciated: waterproof and warm winter jackets, waterproof trousers, outdoor suits, warm gloves, warm hats, warm scarves, wellies, boots and other outdoor shoes.
All items can be donated at the existing ‘Kit for All’ drop bins located at all the Shetland Recreational Trust leisure centres and pools throughout Shetland.
All donations should be in good, clean and wearable condition.
Ali Robertson, RSPB Shetland Community Engagement Officer, said:
“Nature is a free resource for health and entertainment, but the cost of appropriate outdoor wear can be a barrier to the outdoors for some families and individuals.
“Having access to waterproof and warm clothing can make it more comfortable to spend time outdoors connecting with nature, and increase the health benefits and learning opportunities that go along with it.
“We believe all individuals in Shetland should have access to these benefits, and this appeal aims to remove the barriers to engaging with nature in our islands this winter.”
Louise Jamieson, SIC Active Schools Manager, said:
“We are excited to collaborate with the RSPB on this project focused on outdoor clothing.
“Exploring Shetland’s beautiful outdoors is a fantastic experience, but having the right clothing is essential, particularly in the winter months.
“This initiative offers a wonderful opportunity for the Shetland community to come together, donate pre-loved outdoor wear during the month of October, and attend the event in November to pick up suitable clothing.”
