This recycling scheme is cutting Wigan school uniform costs by up to 50 per cent
A Wigan schools trust is enthusiastically backing a uniform recycling scheme which is making huge savings for families, some of whom have been struggling to make ends meet
Parents and school leaders in Wigan are celebrating the continued success of a uniform recycling scheme designed to tackle the rising cost of living and protect the planet.
Formerly known as RE:FORM, the newly rebranded RE:WEAR scheme, run by uniform provider Trutex, collects pre-loved school clothes, refurbishes them to "as-new" condition, and resells them at a discount of up to 50 per cent.
Popular with Wigan parents and carers, last year alone, 5,016 garments were recycled by the scheme, pushing the total number of items saved by the Outwood Family of Schools - which includes Outwood Academy in Hindley - to more than 15,000 since the partnership began in 2021.
The process is designed to be seamless for busy families; parents can drop off outgrown uniforms at donation points located in every Outwood school.
Trutex then launders, repairs, and repackages every item to ensure top-notch quality.
The refurbished items are sold via the Trutex website, featuring interest-free payment options to further reduce financial pressure.
Beyond the price slash, the environmental impact is substantial.
Extending the life of a garment by just nine months can reduce its carbon, water, and waste footprint by 20 to 30 per cent.
On top of this, many of the items, including blazers and trousers, are manufactured from 100% recycled polyester, keeping millions of plastic bottles out of landfills annually.
Katy Bradford, Deputy CEO at Outwood Grange Academies Trust, said: “Our uniform recycling scheme has seen an amazing response.
“Parents and carers appreciate the affordable choices, and it’s also a fantastic way to teach students about sustainability.
“This programme is truly benefiting our students; a clear win for all.”
Matthew Easter, CEO of Trutex, said: “We’re delighted to be part of the continued success of the uniform recycling programme at the Outwood family of schools.
“Our RE:WEAR scheme is growing widely now and really is a win-win; not only easing the financial burden for parents but also providing long-lasting garments that are better for the environment.”