Trinity isn't the only charity to have had its shops closed for over two months now. As a result, the charities that raise money for vital causes in London and across the UK are suffering a dramatic drop in income. Trinity is no exception.

There is around £30 billion worth of clothes sitting at the back of the UK’s wardrobes, unworn and unloved – and this is worse now than ever, as dresses, suits and party clothes are gathering dust in wardrobes with no sign of restaurants, clubs or bars opening any time soon.

So #LoveNotLandfill, alongside Crisis, Barnardo’s and Trinity, is launching #LockdownDressup on Wednesday 20 May. We’re asking people to get out into the parks and supermarkets (whilst maintaining social distancing) wearing something eye-catching, beautiful or unusual. Those that are self-isolating can do it from their living rooms or gardens. They then donate £3 to their chosen charity and post a pic or video on their social media channels. Finally, they nominate three friends and/or family members to do the same – hopefully raising smiles as well as money for the causes that so desperately need it.

The celebrities and influencers that support Crisis, Barnardo’s and Trinity will also be taking part to help raise money for their chosen charities. Once live, #LockdownDressup can be used by any charity to help raise funds – we want as many as possible to take part.

Hannah Carter from #LoveNotLandfill said: “Many of the charities we work with are on the frontline of the Covid-19 effort and trying to help those who are extremely vulnerable. #LockdownDressup is one thing we can do to support them while we can’t buy clothes from their shops. We’ve all got beautiful clothes in our wardrobes that we probably haven’t worn since lockdown started. So #LockdownDressup is a chance to style them up and proudly give your neighbours something different to talk about.”

Robin Osterley, CEO of the Charity Retail Association said, “Charities are undergoing an unprecedented loss of income as a result of COVID-19, partly caused by the closure of their shops, and anything the public can do to help plug that gap will be most gratefully received. This is a fun way that people can get involved and be creative. We are doing all we can to help support charity shops get up and running post-lockdown and are looking forward to welcoming shoppers back in store.”
When lockdown ends and charity shops can re-open, they’re going to need clothes, customers and volunteers. Do a #BigTryOn to clear out the clothes you don’t need, take them down to your local charity shop and do some shopping whilst you’re there – and buy #secondhandfirst.