About
The Wardrobe
The Wardrobe is a safe space for anyone who needs clothes, who does not feel safe in standard shopping and changing environments. We prioritise the LGBT+ community but anyone in need is welcome. There is no charge for using the space and you can take away as many clothes, shoes and accessories as you like.
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We are a group of volunteers who run the space as a resource for the community. We are always happy to welcome new members to help or advise. Please get in touch if you'd like to get involved.
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We were driven to create something useful and positive in the face of escalating transphobic rhetoric. We have found that experimenting with gender expression, and finding people and places that welcome our true selves, can play a huge part in mental health and wellbeing.
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We run semi-regular events for you to drop-in, and can be open by appointment for a private browse.
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Our current site is at:
Orbis Community
Interchange Centre
9 West Street
Gateshead
NE8 1BH
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From October 2021 - October 2024 we were based at The NewBridge Project in Shieldfield, where the idea grew from a dream into a reality. We are hoping to keep moving forward and formalise into an organisation who can offer even more.
The changing area at The Wardrobe, Orbis Community. Photo by Jonpaul Kirvan.
Donations
As a clothes bank of second-hand clothes, we rely on donations to offer a wide range of sizes and styles to our visitors.
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Due to limited storage space, we can't always receive donations - please get in touch if you have any clothes shoes or accessories you would like to add to our collection, and we will discuss options.
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Here is a list of items we always seem to need. If you can help with these, it will be much appreciated:
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Plus-size femme clothes
Femme shoes over size 8
Binders
Packers
Breast forms
Smaller masc formal wear
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We do not ascribe gender to our items once they enter our collection, but we find guiding donations in this way helps us maintain a balanced stock.
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Please do not donate clothes that are stained or soiled, as we will just have to throw them away.
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Donating jewellery and make-up is encouraged, we will sanitise everything we can. If cosmetics have been opened, please just ensure they are in useable condition, and there is a decent amount of product left.
