The Clothes Loop (formerly Berwickshire Swap) is a Scottish charity dedicated to alleviating clothing poverty and promoting sustainable living within the community. Established in 2019 in Reston, East Berwickshire, the organisation became a Scottish charity in 2020. Its mission is to support families by providing access to quality, pre-loved children’s clothing, toys, books, and baby equipment, thereby reducing textile waste and fostering a circular economy.
The charity’s journey began when a group of local families recognised the limited options for affordable children’s clothing in rural Berwickshire. In response, they initiated clothing swaps, allowing families to exchange items and meet their children’s needs without financial strain. This grassroots effort laid the foundation for Berwickshire Swap, which now operates across Berwickshire, the Central Borders, East Lothian, and Northumberland.
Central to The Clothes Loop’s activities are its regular events, where families can donate and select items and pay as they feel. These events offer a range of children’s clothing sizes from birth up to 12 years, as well as toys, books, and baby equipment. By encouraging a ‘families helping families’ approach, the charity reduces the stigma associated with second-hand items and promotes sustainable living.
In addition to travelling events, The Clothes Loop provides an emergency clothing service for children up to 12 years old. Operating on a referral basis, the service collaborates with health visitors, social workers, schools, and other agencies to deliver a week’s worth of clean, seasonal, quality clothing to children in immediate need. This initiative ensures that families facing unforeseen challenges have access to essential items without delay.
The charity’s impact is evident in its growing reach and community engagement. In 2025, The Clothes Loop held 74 recorded events across the Scottish Borders, North Northumberland East Lothian, assisting over 3,900 children and providing more than 10,000 pieces of clothing and baby equipment through emergency parcels. The opening of ‘The Loop’ charity shop in Duns further exemplifies the organisation’s commitment to sustainability and community support.
Governed by a dedicated team of trustees and supported by volunteers, The Clothes Loop operates with a clear focus on its charitable objectives. The organisation’s structure enables it to respond effectively to community needs, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to maximise impact.
Looking ahead, The Clothes Loop remains committed to expanding its services and reach. With continued support, the charity aims to assist more families, reduce textile waste, and promote sustainable living practices throughout the region. By fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility, The Clothes Loop continues to make a positive difference in the lives of many.
