Question 1

How do I donate?

Accepted Answer

Check that your garment meets our donation criteria, then follow our step-by-step donation instructions.

→ How to Donate

Question 2

What garments can I donate?

Accepted Answer

We accept ready-made and made-to-order (these are standard sized garments with additional features) compression garments (tights, leggings, stockings, arm sleeves) in good condition, with the brand and size label clearly attached. We do NOT accept made-to-measure garments (made to your specific measurements)

→ Full donation criteria

Question 3

What garments can’t be donated?

Accepted Answer

We cannot accept:
•       Garments with holes, ladders, broken elastic, or structural damage
•       Made-to-measure garments (custom-made to your specific measurements)
•       Garments worn with open wounds or active skin sores
•       Garments without a readable brand and size label

→ Label & Rejection Guide

Question 4

Why must labels be attached?

Accepted Answer

Brand and size labels are essential for listing items accurately and safely. Without them, we cannot confirm the garment’s size or match it to a new wearer. Items without readable labels must be rejected, even if the garment is otherwise in good condition.

Question 5

Can I donate made-to-measure garments?

Accepted Answer

Not at this stage. Made-to-measure garments are made to your specific body measurements and don’t carry a standard size, which means they cannot be reliably matched to a new wearer. We hope to find a solution for these in a future phase of the service.

Question 6

Can I donate garments that have been tried on?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If a garment has only been tried on and is still in good condition, it can be donated. We understand that many compression garments are bought or prescribed and then found to be the wrong size, fit, or style.

Question 7

Can I donate garments without the original packaging?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Original packaging is helpful but not essential. If you still have the packaging or any product information showing the brand, size, compression level, or style, please include it.

Question 8

Should I include prescription paperwork or personal details in my parcel?

Accepted Answer

No. Please do not include prescriptions, medical letters, patient labels, or any paperwork containing personal information. If you want to include garment details, only include product information such as brand, size, style, and compression level.

Question 9

Do I need to print a label to use Royal Mail?

Accepted Answer

No. Royal Mail supports print-free QR code donations. You can scan the QR code at a locker or InPost shop — no printing needed.

Question 10

How should I package my donation?

Accepted Answer

Please use secure packaging such as a mailing bag or sturdy reused parcel bag. Make sure the parcel is properly sealed and that all garments are dry before packing.

Question 11

Is there a size or weight limit for Royal Mail parcels?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Royal Mail Tracked Returns accepts parcels weighing up to 20kg, with maximum dimensions of 61cm × 46cm × 46cm. This should be more than sufficient for most compression garment donations. Please package the garments securely and use more than one parcel if your donation exceeds these limits.

Question 12

Can I put more than one garment in the same parcel?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as long as the parcel is securely packaged and stays within InPost's size and weight limits. If you are donating several different garments, it's helpful to include any known product details (brand, size, style) so we can triage them accurately.

Question 13

Will I receive confirmation that my donation has arrived?

Accepted Answer

You will receive InPost tracking confirmation when your parcel is dropped off. During the pilot, we may not be able to provide individual updates for every donation once it reaches ACS Clothing, but your InPost confirmation is proof of postage.

Question 14

Can I get my donation back if I change my mind?

Accepted Answer

Once donated garments have been received and processed by ACS Clothing, we are not able to return them. Please only send items you are happy to donate.

Question 15

Will I be paid for donating garments?

Accepted Answer

No. This is a donation-based pilot. Donated items are used to support a reuse and resale model that aims to reduce textile waste and improve access to compression garments.

Question 16

Will every donated item be resold?

Accepted Answer

No. Every item is inspected and only garments that pass our quality, hygiene, and suitability checks will be listed for sale. Items that don't meet the required standard will be responsibly recycled or disposed of.