EasyJet has announced it will donate thousands of retired crew uniforms to charity, with the aim of helping families cope with the cost of school clothing. The airline says it will recycle or pass on 100% of retired garments, sending many items still suitable for use to a range of charities close to its operations.

The donation drive will begin at easyJet’s headquarters in Luton, in partnership with Level Trust to assist children living in poverty in the area. Level Trust operates across 75 Luton schools and runs a uniform exchange programme for local families.

It will provide stock for older-year pupils in need, including shirts, skirts, jackets and trousers. Michael Brown, director of cabin services for easyJet, said: “Our aim for this first phase is both to support parents who are facing financial hardships as well as reduce our textile waste.” Jennie White, of Level Trust, added: “We have seen a significant rise in requests for school uniforms, highlighting the challenges many families are facing. EasyJet’s donation of surplus uniforms is a crucial step in addressing these needs as this initiative not only helps alleviate the financial strain on parents, but also ensures that children have the necessary attire to feel confident and focused at school.”