The Challenge
The
Recycling Project was launched about 10 years ago by a Gloucester
Neighbourhood Project when someone was faced with turning down
an unfurnished flat because he had no furniture and could not
afford any.
Developing
the idea
Two
garages were leased by the Neighbourhood Project for storage
but the Project soon had to expand to meet a need, not just
in the local area but also throughout Gloucester City.
 |
| The
Furniture Recycling Project finds new uses for unwanted
furniture |
The
Project became independent in 1996. Since then, the pioneering
award-winning Project has gone from strength to strength; supplying
safe, clean, affordable recycled furniture and household items
to disadvantaged communities.
The
recycling of furniture also helps the environment by reducing
demand for landfill sites and supports/develops staff and volunteers.
Making
it happen
The
Project is currently housed in two warehouses at Gloucester
Docks and has a shop in Stroud, serving the whole of the county.
From
three paid staff and nine volunteers in 1996, the Project now
has a staff of 12 and supports up to 50 volunteers/trainers.
It has recently acquired three LPG dual fuel vans funded through
the Landfill Tax Credit scheme.
The
small amounts charged for the recycled furniture help offset
the running costs of staff wages, rent, insurance etc.
The
benefits
Gloucester City Council recognises the Recycling Project
has saved the council about £250,000 over four years, resulting
in a reduced need for landfill.
 |
| The
project finds new homes for 13,000 furniture items a year |
During
1999/2000 it supplied 850 wardrobes, the equivalent of about
65 cricket pitches.
Currently,
it recycles about 13,000 items a year. It also removes an increasing
burden from social services - people go to the Project to furnish
their homes who would otherwise have to go to social services
for help, or to 'loan sharks'.
The
Project also offers work experience placements and opportunities
for volunteers, including asylum seekers and people with learning
disabilities, to develop their skills and confidence and assist
them into employment.
Key
tips
