At the end of August, The Glades hosted its very first Free School Uniform initiative, and the response from the local community was incredible.
Collecting donations
Throughout the month of August, we invited shoppers and local residents to donate pre-loved school uniforms. We weren’t sure how much would come in, but thanks to the generosity of Bromley, we collected more than 2,000 items.
The giveaway days
On 30 and 31 August, families were welcomed to the Central Atrium to choose up to four items of uniform per child, completely free of charge. Demand was high, with queues forming both days, and in total 261 people were able to pick up school uniform for the new term.
Community feedback
The feedback from families was overwhelmingly positive:
“Brilliant initiative – it felt like just another way of shopping for uniform!”
“Fantastic idea, wish more towns would do this.”
“Such a wonderful idea – well done!”
Many parents have already asked if the initiative will return next year – showing just how valuable this support has been.
Thank you
A huge thank you goes to our event partner Moo & Goo and their amazing staff, who helped sort donations and manage the event space. And, of course, to the Bromley community for your kindness and generosity. Leftover uniforms were passed on to local charity Bromley Brighter Beginnings, ensuring nothing went to waste.
This project proved that small local actions can make a big difference – supporting families, encouraging reuse, and bringing the community closer together.
