Swindon shoppers have embraced an eco-friendly shopping spree this summer, snapping up over 2,500 preloved items at Survivor@SWA’s annual summer sale. Since the sale kicked off on Saturday, 31 August, locals have bagged a variety of clothing, homeware, jewellery, and toys – all for a fantastic cause. The shop, run by Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service (SDASS), is a key player in the community, both for its support of domestic abuse survivors and its impact on the environment.
Shoppers have contributed to an impressive 34,700kg reduction in carbon emissions by choosing second-hand rather than new, equivalent to driving over 160,875 miles in a petrol car. This shows that Swindon’s residents are not just mindful of their wallets but also the planet.
The Survivor shop, situated on The Parade in the town centre, has become a staple for bargain hunters. Under the direction of shop manager Camilla Glass, a team of dedicated volunteers keeps the shop running smoothly. Proceeds go directly to SDASS, helping fund crucial services that address domestic abuse, including education, behaviour change programmes, and professional consultancy.
Camilla Glass expressed her gratitude for the town’s support, stating: “We’ve been overwhelmed by Swindon’s response to our summer sale. Our shop has earned a reputation for offering quality brands at affordable prices, and the sale gives people even more value for their money. Every purchase helps fund our vital work and also contributes to reducing carbon emissions – a win for the community and the planet.”
With items reduced to just £1, the sale has allowed the shop to make way for a fresh batch of stock ahead of the new season. For those interested in both sustainability and supporting a vital local cause, the sale continues until Wednesday, 11 September.
For more information about Survivor@SWA and the services provided by SDASS, you can visit their website or follow them on social media. The shop’s efforts highlight that even small actions, like shopping preloved, can lead to significant environmental benefits while supporting an essential cause.
If you or someone you know needs advice about domestic abuse, SDASS offers a confidential 24/7 Helpline at 01793 610610.
*Figures calculated using The Charity Retail Association’s reuse calculator, based on 2,500 items of general clothing – https://www.charityretail.org.uk/charity-shop-reuse-calculator/
