Members of the public are being encouraged to call ahead and check if their local Revolve certified second hand store is open and able to accept donations of re-usable items in the weeks ahead.

While second hand shops in England can reopen from the 15 June, all re-use and charity stores in Scotland currently remain closed in line with government guidance, with the exception of those supplying bikes. All will be unable to receive items at this time.

Awarded by Zero Waste Scotland, the Revolve certification is Scotland’s guarantee for pre-loved items and gives shoppers the confidence that they will receive quality products and excellent customer service. All stores meet strict safety and hygiene standards.

When Scottish stores are given the green light to reopen, people are being asked to check in with their local Revolve certified shop for details on the type and volume of donations they can accept and when.

It is anticipated that a number of stores will be at their capacity with stock before donations resume post-lockdown. However, other stores within the network will gratefully receive donations of quality second hand goods following the lengthy closure.

Miriam Adcock, consumer re-use spokesperson for Zero Waste Scotland, said:

“We want to make sure as many donations as possible can be given a new home and nothing is wasted. By checking in with your nearest store you can be sure they will be in a position to process and resell your items.

“All of our stores are looking forward to welcoming back customers when the time is right. We’re keen to highlight that while stores in England may reopen, the majority of shops in Scotland will still be closed for the time being.”

Donating to Revolve stores and thinking second hand first protects the environment as quality items are reused. Second hand stores support the local community by raising funds and providing jobs.

The public are being encouraged to keep donations at home until charity stores reopen. If donations are left outside stores, they could be damaged and stores won’t be able to sell them yet they’ll have to pay for disposal.

For anyone wishing to make a donation or purchase an item when stores reopen, please visit the Revolve website for a list of our stores and contact details: https://www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/revolve