People invited to donate outdoor clothing as winter approaches

AN APPEAL has been launched in Shetland which aims to remove barriers to nature this winter by redistributing unwanted outdoor clothing.

The appeal involves Shetland Islands Council (SIC) and RSPB Shetland.

Staff involved with the SIC sport and leisure services’ ‘Kit for All’ initiative and the active schools team are collaborating with the local RSPB team.

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 in Lerwick on Sunday 24 November from 11am to 3pm.

The SIC said 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.

The SIC said donations are sought of the following items for children and adults:

• Waterproof and warm winter jackets
• Waterproof trousers
• Outdoor suits
• Warm gloves
• Warm hats
• Warm scarves
• Wellies and boots
• Other outdoor shoes.

All items can be donated at the existing ‘Kit for All’ drop bins located at Shetland Recreational Trust leisure centres and pools.

All donations should be in good, clean and wearable condition.

RSPB Shetland community engagement officer Ali Robertson 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.”

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Louise Jamieson, the SIC’s 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.”