The cost of living crisis has contributed to the growth of a preloved children’s market which is making kids items more affordable.
The Little Children Market is expected to host its most popular event to date in Urmston this weekend and organiser say they have seen their market grow “exponentially”.
Originally set up in Warrington by Laural Dean when she saw a lack of options for families to buy second-hand children’s items and due to her dedication, the business has now spread across the UK.
The business, which started nine years ago, welcomes people from across the country to shop preloved items – saving money and promoting sustainability.
Bethany Shirley, social media manager at The Little Children Market, said: “The tide is most definitely turning with more and more people making the change every year.”
The market also gives an opportunity for those who need to clear out anything from clothes to toys that their children may have outgrown.
They believe that the cost of living is a contributor to the growth, with many people now wanting to save money on the things that their children need.
The cost-of-living crisis is still impacting people’s lives, after the government’s decision in September to extend the Household Support Fund – something Manchester City Council campaigned for which has supported around 70,000 residents so far.
The market sighted the shedding of previous stigmas around buying second hand as a driving force behind the message of their business.
Speaking about the positive impacts of the business, Shirley said: “Businesses like ours are helping to remove that stigma and show the families that can’t necessarily afford to buy new that there is nothing wrong with preloved.
“It can make unattainable brands/items attainable for the ‘average’ family.”
Entry to the events cost £2 (in cash) for adults and children go free, so they can help parents and guardians pick out what it is they want.
The event will take place 26th November at 11:00 at the George Carnall Community Hub, with thousands of recycled and preloved items.
For anyone struggling with the cost of living, you can call Manchester City Council’s advice line on 0800 023 2692.
Image credits: Bethany Shirley
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