What is The Edinburgh Clothing Store?

The Edinburgh Clothing Store (ECS) is a charity run by volunteers, offering clothing, shoes, bedding, etc for people in genuine need. It's a free service and no money changes hands.

Over 120 caring agencies including Health Visitors, Social Workers, Hostels for the Homeless, Women's Aid, Job Centres and SACRO refer people to the ECS.

Around 1500 people are referred to us every year and the demand for our services is still rising.

What does the Clothing Store Provide?

  • Clothing for adults and children
  • Shoes
  • Bedding
  • Curtains
  • Towels

Who can use the Clothing Store?

The ECS is for individuals and families who are on low income, or otherwise vulnerable through personal circumstances.

How do people access the service?

Anyone needing the help of the ECS has to be referred by a social care or health agency. The office is open Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm and appointments can be arranged between 10am and 1pm Tuesday to Friday.

People should come at their appointment time to the Edinburgh Clothing Store, 156 Lower Granton Road, where they will be offered clothing, bedding, curtains and/or towels depending on their particular needs.

How often can people come?

  • Adults may be referred every 4-6 months
  • Children may be referred every 3 months.
  • Bedding, curtains and towels will normally be given only once a year.

What makes this free service possible?

In two words, volunteers and donations. The ECS is run totally by volunteers. With around 1,500 people referred to the service annually, donations of money and clothing, bedding, curtains and towels are always needed. All good quality, clean, fashionable clothing and good quality, clean bedding, curtains and towels are gratefully received during our opening hours.

Is everything second hand?

The vast majority of stock is second hand, which has always been sorted and checked before it goes on the shelves. New underwear and socks are bought regularly and occasionally there are other new items.