The simple concept, where pre-loved coats and jackets are donated and then distributed to help keep less fortunate children warm over winter, garnered amazing support and thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the people of Fife (and beyond) they now have over 500 coats and jackets available to local residents entirely free of charge.

One of the project team leaders, Helen Miller, said: “Giving Something Back was the theme of our colleague conference this year and we were keen to do something that would have a real impact.

“Unfortunately, thousands of children in Fife are living below the poverty line, with their parents and carers struggling to make ends meet, and the cost of warm coats is something some of them just cannot stretch to.

“On the flip side, many other families have good quality winter jackets which are only worn briefly before the children grow out of them, so it made perfect sense to try and bring the two together, and we have been absolutely blown away by the response we have received.”

Free winter coats and jackets can now be picked up at the collection points detailed below or alternative arrangements can be made by calling the Fife Housing Group offices directly on freephone 08000 274 007.

So, if you, or anyone you know, could do with one less expense at this costly time of year, then please pop along to one of the distribution centres listed or contact them directly for further information.