Peterborough City Council is tackling the rising cost of living with a free pop-up shop where residents can swap or take pre-loved school uniforms and prom dresses for free. The initiative, aimed at supporting families and promoting sustainable practices, will open on 31 July 2026 on Bridge Street.
Situated next to the Town Hall at unit 31, the pop-up shop will operate from midday until 17:00 BST. By embracing the principles of 'reduce, reuse, and recycle', it offers a practical solution for parents struggling with the expense of kitting out children for September's new academic term.
Katy Cole, Labour cabinet member for children's services at Peterborough City Council, highlighted the financial pressures families often face when preparing for the new school year. She encouraged local residents to make use of the event, stating it could significantly alleviate some of these burdens and help families in need.
The event builds on last summer's successful scheme, which demonstrated a strong community need for such support. By providing another opportunity for families to access essential clothing items without cost, the council aims to foster both economic relief and environmentally conscious living.
Chris Wiggin, Liberal Democrat cabinet member for environmental services, explained that by prioritising the reuse and recycling of textiles, the event plays a crucial role in diverting clothing from landfill, thereby minimising its overall environmental impact. Residents are encouraged to donate clean, good-quality items they no longer need.