Living Keys Christmas Swap Shop: A Festive Success

The Swap Shop was back by popular demand last week (28 November), inviting women to donate items they no longer need and swap them with other items they liked.

Many of our ladies find it a struggle over the Christmas period as the pressure is on to provide gifts for the children, often leaving them in debt and feeling very stressed through finance pressure. The aim of the Swap Shop was to help alleviate some of that pressure.

With a charge of £5 for entry, guests were able to choose anything they wanted and go home with bags filled with goodies for the children and for themselves, or gifts for family.

Many left really satisfied that they were able to get gifts for their children for a £5 admission charge.

The event was wonderful, and it was so good to see women sitting together, enjoying the buffet provided and chatting. It’s all about community, supporting others during the cost of living crisis and preventing as much debt as possible.

Linda Huskisson, Founder and CEO, says: “We were blown away by the generosity of many people who donated baby clothing, moses basket, toys, women’s winter clothing and more.

“We would like to thank all of those who donated and for making a difference to the lives of others. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

Living Keys raised £170, which will help towards the cost of supporting all that come through our doors, whether that be attending courses or using our drop-in service for specific needs.

We try to hold this event twice a year. Our next Swap Shop will hopefully be in April or May, ready for the summer.

Living Keys would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and may 2025 be a year of opportunity and dreams fulfilled.