Teachers warn new school uniforms are too costly for too many families

With many families in Edinburgh finding the cost of purchasing a new school uniform completely unaffordable, The Leith Collective launches free school uniform exchange.

Article Source: The Leith Collective
Last Updated: 12 June 2025 15:26

Many families in Edinburgh are finding the cost of purchasing a new school uniform completely unaffordable. For some children, this means going to school in an ill-fitting or worn-out uniform. For others, it means resorting to wearing non-school uniform items. Standing out from their peers in this way has the potential to result in a negative school experience and can impact a pupil’s ability to learn and thrive.

That’s according to The Leith Collective, who have been approached by a growing number of teachers and parents calling for help. And so, as the current school term draws to a close, this Community Interest Company is launching a free school uniform exchange, so every pupil can start the new term in August with everything they need to see them through a successful school year.

Taking place at The Leith Collective stores in Edinburgh’s Ocean Terminal and Fort Kinnaird as well as the Livingston Designer Outlet and Dundee’s Overgate, the team behind this initiative are asking locals to donate good quality uniforms, coats, gym kits, shoes, schoolbags, pencil cases and any other school essentials so they can distribute them to those in need.

But that’s not all. The Leith Collection is calling on local businesses to donate surplus stock where possible, with those taking part in the exchange receiving a community support certificate in recognition of their contribution.

Speaking ahead of the launch, The Leith Collective founder, Sara Thomson said; “From an environmental point of view, it is so important to keep good quality uniforms out of landfill and in use for as long as possible. And from a personal point of view, I’ve heard first-hand accounts from teachers and parents about what a negative effect it can have on families when they simply can’t afford school essentials, and it’s heartbreaking.

“This is the third year we’re running our free school uniform exchange and people need it more than ever. That’s why we’re widening our call this year and asking for businesses to get on board too to help those in need.”

People can donate and collect items, no questions asked, at The Leith Collective in Ocean Terminal, Fort Kinnaird and Livingston Designer Outlet during opening hours. The hope is to help as many pupils as possible get off to the best possible start when the new academic year begins in August.

The Leith Collective at Ocean Terminal
Ocean Drive
Edinburgh
EH6 6JJ
Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 11am - 6pm, and Sunday 11am - 5pm

The Leith Collective at Fort Kinnaird
Newcraighall
Edinburgh
EH15 3RD
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm, seven days a week

The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet
Almondvale Avenue
Livingston
EH54 6QX
Opening hours: Monday 9am - 7pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 9am - 6pm, Thursday - Saturday 9am - 8pm, Sunday 9am - 6pm

Image: Sara Thomson - The Leith Collective

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