Fundraise or Donate Thinking of Donating Items? Here's What Helps the Most

This guide will help you understand what is most useful, what we may not be able to receive, and how you can make the greatest impact. If you're ever unsure, just email us or visit our Donate page to support young people directly.

Why Some Donations Can’t Be Accepted

We appreciate every offer of support, but there are practical reasons why we have to turn some donations away:

• Health and safety: We must meet strict hygiene and safety standards to protect the wellbeing of young people in our care.
• Storage limitations: Our centres have limited space, especially for bulky items.
• Respect and dignity: It’s important that young people receive items that are clean, high-quality, and appropriate for their needs. We want them to feel seen, respected, and valued.
• Hidden costs: Disposing of unsuitable or damaged items takes staff time and funds that could go directly to our services.

Items We Can Accept

We welcome the following donations when arranged in advance:

• New, unworn clothing only (e.g. jeans, coats, joggers, hoodies)
• New underwear and socks
• New toiletries (e.g. deodorant, toothpaste, period products, body wash)
• Gift cards (for high street shops like Primark, supermarkets, or food outlets)
• Small household items (such as new bedding, unopened kitchen essentials, small appliances – space permitting)
• Non-perishable food – items that we will be able to store until needed

Please contact us first at info@stepbystep.org.uk to confirm what is most useful and whether we can accept your donation at this time.

What We Can’t Accept - and Why

We know it can feel disappointing to hear "no" to a generous offer. These guidelines are not about being ungrateful — they are about being responsible, respectful and realistic.

Unfortunately, we cannot accept:

• Used clothing or footwear – we only accept new, unworn items to uphold dignity and hygiene
• Bulky furniture (e.g. sofas, wardrobes, bedframes) – we simply don’t have the space
• Perishable food – food safety regulations prevent us from accepting items past use-by dates
• Bedding, mattresses, sleeping bag or duvets – our accommodation for young people will be already kitted out with these items
• Toys or baby items – our services are for young people aged 11–25

If your item falls into one of these categories, we recommend donating to a local charity shop or furniture reuse scheme.

Want to Make the Greatest Impact?

The most powerful way to support young people at risk of homelessness is through a monetary donation. Your gift can:

• Provide a safe place to stay
• Fund wellbeing support
• Enable young people to access training and life skills
• Cover essential costs like transport or food during crisis

Donate now and help us offer the consistency and care that changes lives.

Not Sure What to Do?

We know everyone wants to help in the right way. If you have a question or want to check whether your donation is suitable, our team is here to help.

Contact us at and we’ll guide you on what’s most helpful right now.

You’re Making a Difference

Even reading this page shows you care, and that matters. Whether you’re donating items, giving financially, or simply spreading the word, you are part of a community creating brighter futures for young people.

Thank you for being part of the mission to end youth homelessness.