Shepton Mallet families are invited to try a free seven-day challenge to clear outgrown children's belongings and make space before Christmas.

Outgrown, Not Wasted helps parents sort clothes, toys, books and baby items their children no longer need. Instead of a whole-house clear-out, it breaks the job into manageable daily steps.

The first six days focus on clothes, toys, books, baby equipment, shoes and accessories, and larger belongings. On day seven, families decide what happens to each item: keep it, pass it on, donate it, recycle it responsibly or sell it.

Shepton Mallet already has examples of how useful belongings can find another home. Children's Hospice South West has a shop at Unit 2, Townsend Road, where donations of good-quality children's clothes, toys, games and books help support its work with children and families. The charity asks people to bring donations during opening hours, not leave bags outside.

The SOS Africa charity shop on High Street accepts suitable preloved clothing and other goods. Donors should contact the shop before bringing items in.

For belongings that need a little attention rather than replacing, Shepton Mallet Repair Café at the Art Bank on High Street offers volunteer help with items including clothing and bags. Not everything can be repaired, and families should check the latest session details before visiting.

These local organisations work independently of Outgrown, Not Wasted, but show how reusing and repairing everyday possessions can benefit the wider community.

The free challenge was created by Karolina Gudes, a mum of two from Broughton in North Wales and founder of Kidora, a UK family platform for parents.

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Karolina said: "Children can outgrow things long before those things wear out. A few minutes sorting one drawer or shelf can uncover something another family could use, while helping us see what we already have before buying more."

An easy first step is checking winter coats for size, gathering unread picture books or sorting forgotten toys. Children can help choose favourites to keep and items to pass on.

Parents should check condition, missing parts, safety guidance and product recalls before donating or selling toys and baby equipment. Unsafe or recalled products should not be passed on.

Kidora also operates a parent-to-parent marketplace for preloved baby and children's items, with local collection and nationwide delivery. However, families do not need to register, buy, sell or pay anything to join the challenge.

Free printable checklists, posters and ready-to-share resources are available for families, nurseries, schools, PTAs and community groups. The challenge can begin whenever it suits each household.

https://kidora.uk/outgrown