The Leith Collective hopes its Winter Coat Exchange will bring warmth, comfort and dignity to those struggling this winter
Energy prices are set to reach a three-year high this winter, with an even greater hike to bills expected to hit households in the new year.
These increases, coupled with the knock-on effects of a significant El Niño will create a “perfect storm” for families already struggling to afford the basics to stay warm this winter, according to local Community Interest Company, The Leith Collective, which is launching a Winter Coat Exchange on Thursday 1st October to help bring warmth, comfort and dignity to those in need this winter.
Last year, The Leith Collective rehomed more than 10,000 good quality coats. This year, they hope to distribute even more, plus for the first time jumpers, blankets, scarfs, hats and gloves, and they are calling on local businesses and organisations to play their part.
The initiative is being launched in response to the announcement from the energy regulator, Ofgen, which outlined a rise in the price cap from October. This will add an extra £60 to the typical annual household energy bill, setting bills at a three-year high. What’s more, energy prices are predicted to rise again in January 2027, with current forecasts suggesting the price cap could increase by a further 25%.
All this comes amidst warnings from UN officials that a significant El Niño is likely to occur towards the end of 2026, with some forecasts predicting the strongest event on record. The direct effects of this El Niño will be felt across the globe and may heighten instances of extreme weather, leading to adverse effects on global food supply chains and energy prices.
In response, Sara Thomson, founder of The Leith Collective is urging locals to act now. “Families here in Edinburgh are facing real hardship, and the prospects for this winter are bleak if we don’t step in and help.
“We’ve spoken to countless people who can’t afford to heat their homes, cook a decent meal or buy coats and jumpers to stay warm.
“That’s why we’re calling on businesses, organisations, charities, community groups and individuals to donate and distribute good quality winter clothing to bring warmth, comfort and dignity to those in need.”
Organisations can sign up to become an official Winter Coat Exchange Collection Point at www.we-relove.com, the sustainable online marketplace from The Leith Collective.
The website also enables individuals in need to enter their postcode and find their nearest collection point, so they can help themselves to warm winter clothes without charge and without judgement.