Boutique transforms clothing support for people experiencing homelessness

The new service has been created by staff to offer people a different experience from simply being given clothes when needed. Instead, people are given tokens which they can use to choose their own clothing, creating a shopping experience where they can browse, make decisions and select items that reflect their individual style and needs.

The Confidence Boutique was chosen by people Wheatley Care support, to reflect the shop’s purpose of offering choice, dignity and the opportunity to feel good about yourself, while helping to build confidence and self-esteem.

The boutique stocks good-quality pre-loved clothing, shoes, bags and jewellery, alongside essential new items such as underwear and socks. It also includes school uniforms and baby items, supporting women, men, children and families.

Particular consideration has been given to ensuring the service is inclusive, with clothing available for people who are transitioning and modest clothing suitable for people from different cultural and religious backgrounds.

People are also given individual appointment slots so that their experience is more personal to them.

Those who visit the boutique have the option to provide feedback on their experience by leaving a written note in the team’s guestbook.

One individual who visited the boutique, left a heartfelt note in the guestbook:

“I was really quite stressed about money and how I was going to be able to afford some things that I needed for my kids.

“This shop has let me choose stuff and I feel so much better – can't thank you enough.”

Natalie McNeill, Wheatley Care's Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator, said:

“The boutique is about much more than clothing. When someone is experiencing homelessness, they often lose a lot of choice and control in their lives.

“We wanted to create a welcoming space where people can take their time, browse and choose items they genuinely like, just as they would in any shop. Having that choice can make a real difference to a person's confidence, dignity and self-esteem, while helping them feel more comfortable and prepared for the next step in their journey.”

Where possible, people supported by the service can also help organise and maintain the space, giving them a sense of ownership and involvement.

The work in Falkirk and Grangemouth forms part of a wider programme of support being delivered by Wheatley Care across the area.

The team behind the boutique is also appealing for further donations of good-quality clothing.

The Confidence Boutique is particularly keen to receive modest clothing, including items such as hijabs, to help meet the needs of people from a range of cultural backgrounds.

Donations of clean, good-quality clothing can be dropped off at the services at any time, as the service operates 24 hours a day. People are encouraged to email the team in advance and can get in touch with Sheena McHugh at sheena.mchugh@wheatley-care.com to let staff know they plan to visit.