We help families overcome the costs of education so all children in Luton have the chance to love learning.
When money is tight at home, a child might not have the uniform and equipment they need for school. They are unlikely to be able to do fun things in the school holidays and they are more likely to suffer with mental health problems and low self esteem. They can feel embarrassed about making friends because they feel ‘different’ and they can have little hope for the future.
27% of children in Luton live in poverty - that’s over 16,000 children. If Luton is going to provide the best childhood possible for all our children, this needs to change.
We help children aged 3-16 by providing gift cards for school shoes and coats, running a Uniform Exchange ‘swap shop’ in The Mall, giving out Learn@Home resource packs full of the things children need for homework, and running a
summer school packed with exciting and enriching experiences.
Our work makes children feel more included, more confident, and enables them to attend school more - which all adds up to a brighter future.
We are looking for motivated and reliable volunteers with real leadership skills who can help to continue the success of our Uniform Exchange project.
The Uniform Exchange, set up like a high-end boutique shop, provides free school uniform to children in Luton, with a particular focus on support families who are struggling financially. The Uniform Exchange opened in August 2017. Since then, we have helped 2,500 children in Luton, saving them over £50,000.
Volunteers will lead a small team of other volunteers on 4 hour shifts, delegating tasks such as serving families, keeping control of our stock, and sorting donations. As the lead volunteer, you will be the main point of contact for families visiting the Uniform Exchange, some of whom will be experiencing very difficult and troubling circumstances. Your ability to listen, empathise and be if comfort will be essential.
We need people who are passionate about and committed to making a positive difference to children living in poverty in Luton, and who will fit into a friendly, welcoming and compassionate team.
Uniform Exchange
Unit 2G
Gallery Level
The Mall
Luton LU1 2TW
07480 753905
Website www.leveltrust.org