On Tuesday March 4th, we hosted a Clothes Swap during our Accessible Drop-In at Kyra. Held in the big hall downstairs, it gave members the chance to refresh their wardrobes, donate unwanted items, and take home something new—all while embracing sustainability and community support.
With over 300,000 tonnes of clothing sent to UK landfills annually, extending a garment’s life by just nine months can reduce its environmental impact by up to 30%, making swaps like this a simple yet powerful way to promote sustainable fashion.
How the Clothes Swap Worked
The idea was simple: Kyra members brought in clothes they no longer wore, and we arranged them on rails and across tables to create a welcoming, shop-like space where everyone could browse and find new pieces they loved. There was a wide selection of clothing, from casual wear to work-friendly outfits, and members were able to take whatever they needed—without the pressure of price tags.
This wasn’t just about swapping clothes—it was about sharing, reusing, and making fashion more accessible to everyone. Up to 96% of women believe their confidence is affected by what they wear, demonstrating a strong link between clothing choices and mood. Whether someone needed a fresh look for a job interview, comfortable everyday wear, or just something that made them feel good, the Clothes Swap was a judgment-free, supportive environment for women to explore new styles.
Why Accessible Drop-Ins Matter
We hosted the Clothes Swap during one of our Accessible Drop-Ins, ensuring that women who struggle with stairs could take part.
At Kyra, we know that accessibility is key to making our services truly inclusive, which is why we’re committed to offering activities in fully accessible spaces. Alongside the drop-ins, we also run other accessible activities, including:
- Online poetry group – Held by our lovely Glynis very other Saturday, offering a creative and welcoming space.
- Craft sessions at Friargate Quaker House – A relaxed and supportive environment to get creative in an accessible venue.
- Online workshops – Some of our courses, like the Positive Thinking workshop and the Confidence and Assertiveness workshop, are available online, allowing more women to participate from the comfort of their own space.
These events ensure that all women, regardless of mobility needs, can feel part of the Kyra community.
To make our services more accessible, we also offer an online poetry group
How You Can Support More Events Like This
Events like our Clothes Swap and Accessible Drop-Ins make a real difference to the women who come to Kyra. They provide practical support, encourage sustainable choices, and ensure that all women—regardless of mobility or financial barriers—can access community, resources, and empowerment.
By donating, fundraising, or becoming a corporate sponsor, you can help us continue running inclusive, supportive events that make a real impact.
