Second-hand September is an initiative which encourages consumers to shop second hand and donate their unused or unwanted items. 

Originally thought up by Oxfam to raise awareness of the negative impacts of fast fashion while promoting more sustainable habits, the campaign largely focuses on clothing. 

The Journal would love to encourage our readers to get involved with the campaign this September. We visited shops on the High Street in Midsomer Norton and took a trip to Peasedown to see what was on offer in our local charity shops. As an added bonus, we included some accessories and household items too - why not go the extra mile?

Some benefits of buying second-hand on the High Street are:

Supporting charities: By making a purchase at a charity shop, the proceeds go to support good causes and organisations.

Affordability: Charity shops typically offer clothing at significantly lower prices compared to buying new, making an affordable option for those on a budget.

Environmental benefits: Purchasing second-hand reduces the demand for new items to be made and can contribute to the reduction of pollution and waste created by mass-production.

Please be aware that the items listed in our article may no longer be available in stores. The purpose of this piece is to inform our readers of the items that can be found and bought in our local charity shops, with prices provided as an indicator as to how much items cost compared to their original recommended retail price when buying new.

Dorothy House have two stores on the High Street, one selling the usual items and one store dedicated to furniture.

In the store nearest The Hollies, you can find a selection of mens, women's and children's clothing, as well as a dedicated area for teenagers in store. Pictured are just some examples of what you can find in the shop. The furniture store, which has been open for just four weeks, stocks pre-loved furniture, bric-a-brac, elecricals, and Ubiety products, the charity’s own skin care range.

Cats Protection have a store opposite The Island in Midsomer Norton.

Described as an "Aladdin's cave' by manager Amanda, the shop has a range of clothing, bric-a-brac, books and multimedia for sale.

The store even has school uniform on offer, which can be found on the outside rail, with items going for as little as one pound.

The British Heart Foundation have a shop on Midsomer Norton's High Street next to the Holistic Hub.

The store sells a range of pre-loved mens, womens and childrens clothing as well as accessories, homewares, books and music.

The team are currently looking for more volunteers, so even if you don't want to shop, why not pop in for a chat about spending a few hours a week helping out?

Mercy In Action have a store in Peasedown St John, and they are the only charity shop in the village!

Despite this, there is still plenty to choose from and stock is rotated every two weeks. Items for men, women and children are available in store. The store manager Shannon gave The Journal a sneak peek of what's to come in their Autumn drop, expected later in September - keep an eye on their social media for further details.