Giving your clothes to charity can give others the chance of a better life

Statistics from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) have found that, despite the recession, 60 per cent of high street shops have reported a rise in sales during the first two weeks of September.

Age UK, a charity that helps to improve the lives of the elderly, are encouraging people to de-clutter their homes to make room for their new purchases by giving their unwanted items to charity.

Donating clothes that are no longer needed can help to make a difference to other people’s lives.

These are Age UK’s top tips for clearing out unwanted items:

1. Do a little at a time; try setting aside 15 minutes every few days to start tackling what you have to sort through.

2. Take a small box, carrier bag, or bin bag, set yourself a time limit and set about tackling one area that’s troubling you.

3. Think of your clearout of things and the subsequent charity items as your charitable donation; share the wealth of things you have, and in so doing contribute to the wider society.

4. Seasonal clothing; will it be good for next year, or will it look dated? Have you outgrown the style or colours?  A charity can make good use of things that you no longer wear. Why keep them ‘just in case’ if someone else can use them now.

5. Remember, try to be as ruthless as you can; when was the last time you used the item and are you likely to use it again anytime soon?