Second Hand September: where to donate and shop sustainably in the borough
4 September 2026 · By Boroughly editorial — AI-assisted, human-reviewed.
September is a natural moment to sort through what is no longer needed — and Richmond Council is encouraging residents to think second-hand first this month, whether that means donating good-condition items, shopping pre-loved or simply repairing rather than replacing.
Most charity shops across the borough accept clothes, shoes, school uniforms, accessories and books in good condition, usually without an appointment for small donations. The Charity Retail Association's shop finder lists local options. TRAID also operates community clothing banks at several points around the borough for clothes and shoes, and accepts online collection bookings.
For larger items, the Richmond Furniture Scheme collects good-condition furniture for reuse — a useful option for anyone clearing a room ahead of a renovation or move.
The initiative ties in naturally with the start of a new term, when wardrobes and cupboards tend to get reviewed anyway. Further guidance on local donation points, repair resources and how to get involved is on the Richmond Council news page.