Virgin Trains’ initiative upcycling old uniforms to create blankets and scarves for homeless people is a commendable one – and now they’re looking after canine companions too.
Every year, the rail operator enlists the help of prisoners from HMP Northumberland to turn old coats, shell jackets, shirts, trousers and suits worn by staff into garments to help the homeless keep warm over the winter months.
It’s a smart way of making the most of some of uniforms that are more than six years old and also offers the prisoners the chance to develop skills in the prison’s onsite textile factory to help their rehabilitation.
But, as so many of our Big Issue vendors tell us, dogs are such valuable companions so it’s heartening to see the latest addition to the scheme – dog coats. All the items of clothing which could not be made into blankets have been turned into unbranded coats for four-legged friends.
And, let’s be honest, the dog coats have more than a passing resemblance to a certain iconic red tabard.
Items will either be distributed by Virgin Staff at London Euston, Birmingham New Street, Manchester Piccadilly, Liverpool Lime Street and Glasgow Central or will go to local charities to give to the homeless.
