The back-to-school season can be an expensive and stressful time for many families. Between outgrown shoes, worn-out jumpers, and ever-growing supply lists, fitting out the kids for a new academic year places real pressure on household budgets.

At SPARK, our purpose as a Community Interest Company (CIC) is rooted in bringing people together and creating practical, local solutions for our community. That’s why together with York Mumbler, we’re hosting a Free School Uniform Swap in our WORK Space on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August (10am–12pm).

Bring What You Can, Take What You Need

The idea is simple: bring what you can, and take what you need.

Instead of good-quality clothes sitting unused in wardrobes or heading to landfill, this initiative gives pre-loved uniforms a second life. Whether you’re clearing out items your children have outgrown or looking to pick up a few essential items for the term ahead, everyone is welcome.

By sharing resources within our neighbourhood, we can help ease financial pressures on local families while making a positive environmental impact through sustainable reuse.

How to Get Involved

Getting involved is straightforward.

We are collecting donations in advance to make sure there is plenty of choice when the swap opens at the weekend.

1. Drop Off Donations (17th – 28th August)

Please bring clean, wearable donations in a bag or box to the SPARK Site Office between Monday 17th August and Friday 28th August.

What We Can Accept:

• Clean, good-condition school uniforms
• Jumpers, cardigans, and polo shirts/shirts
• Trousers, skirts, and school dresses
• PE kits and plain generic uniform items
• Clean school shoes in good, wearable condition

(Please ensure items are clean, free of major damage or missing zips, and in a condition you would be happy for your own child to wear. We cannot accept underwear or socks.)

2. Come Along to the Swap (29th & 30th August)

Pop down to the WORK Space at SPARK on Saturday 29th or Sunday 30th August between 10am and 12pm to browse and pick up what you need.

Giving Back to the Wider Community

Community spirit doesn’t end when the weekend finishes. Any remaining items left at the end of the swap will be redistributed directly to local charities and community organisations across York to ensure every single donation reaches a family in need.

“We wanted to organise something simple that could make a difference to local families and help save a little money at an expensive time of year! The idea behind the Uniform Swap is easy, if you have something your child has outgrown, bring it along, and if your family needs something, take what you need. We’re also stopping perfectly good clothing from going to waste and bringing the community together!” – Beth, Head of Venue

Event Summary:

• Dates: Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August, 10am – 12pm
• Donation Window: Monday 17th – Friday 28th August (SPARK Site Office)
• Location: WORK Space at SPARK (17-21 Piccadilly, York, YO1 9PB)
• Admission: Free

Follow us on Instagram @sparkyork or visit sparkyork.org/events for more community updates.