We are taking part in Oxfam’s Second-Hand September campaign to highlight how the fabulous second-hand items donated and sold in our charity shop directly funds addiction treatment, providing people with a second chance at life.

So, here at the Living Room, we’re saying ‘Life, Not Landfill’, as Second-Hand really does mean a Second-Chance.

This month our staff will be coming to work dressed in clothes they have bought second-hand. This is an opportunity for you to get to know our staff and showcase the important work they do. Do keep an eye on our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn pages to see our 'Fabulous 'Fits!'

The Living Room’s CEO, Adrienne Arthurs said; “Since 2006, The Living Room Charity Shop has been space for the local community to buy, browse, volunteer, and give back through donations of pre-loved items. Every purchase makes a big difference as it directly funds addiction treatment in Hertfordshire.

“So, when you pay a visit to our recently renovated Stevenage charity shop, you will see how we turn the preloved into re-loved, saving clothes and other items from landfill and giving them a second chance.

“Likewise, if you visit our treatment centres, you will see how our Counsellors give people living with addiction a second chance at life. 

“We passionately believe that second chances and a life in recovery is available to everyone. Addiction treatment benefits future generations, the economy, and communities as it provides people with tools to live life free of dependency to drugs, alcohol, or addictive behaviours for comfort. We believe that everyone has potential, and a life worth living.”

Every item of clothing, trinket or toy donated and sold, directly funds our treatment centres in Stevenage, Watford and St Albans, where highly trained counsellors work to provide free, time-unlimited, life-saving addiction therapy.

Adrienne continued: “Sustainability is extremely important to us, we know that recirculating - buying, wearing, and donating second hand - helps reduce the demand for new clothes. This in turn helps reduce the damage to our planet.

“Many of our staff have been shopping in charity shops and wearing second-hand for years, it really is a case of ‘long live fashion’ and it makes us feel good to be giving something back. Therefore, Second-Hand September is an opportunity for you to get to know us better, whilst we show you what we do to help those on their journey of recovery from addiction.”