EasyJet donates crew uniforms to Luton charity helping children living in poverty
Budget airline easyJet is turning thousands of old crew outfits into school uniforms to support families struggling with rising costs.
EasyJet has launched a new initiative to help families struggling with the cost of school uniforms, donating thousands of retired crew outfits to a Luton-based charity.
The airline is partnering with Level Trust, which operates a Uniform Exchange programme across 75 schools in the area.
The scheme will provide up to 50,000 items, including shirts, skirts, blazers and trousers, in a community where half of all pupils are living in poverty.
New research reveals that nearly three in five UK families are finding it difficult to afford school uniforms, with over a third cutting back on essential household items to cope. Parents spend an average of £255 per child each year, and more than half say they need to replace items before the first term ends.
EasyJet’s donation drive begins in Luton, home to its headquarters, and is part of the airline’s wider sustainability pledge to recycle or reuse 100% of its old uniforms.
The initiative is expected to expand to other UK bases, including London Gatwick, later this year, with plans to reach European locations in 2026.
Jennie White, CEO of Level Trust, said: “We’ve seen a significant rise in requests for school uniforms, highlighting the challenges many families are facing. easyJet’s donation is a crucial step in helping children feel confident and ready to learn.”
The charity’s latest report shows that 68% of families using the Uniform Exchange go without essentials, and 55% fall behind on household bills. With 76% of parents calling for more government-backed community initiatives, the programme has sparked calls for national action.
EasyJet’s move also reflects broader public sentiment, with 80% of Brits saying they want more businesses to repurpose retired materials to support local communities.