A Red Kite-funded project is helping turn unwanted household items into something much more valuable, supporting tenants, reducing waste and creating volunteering opportunities in the process.
Wycombe Mind officially opened its new Free Space Recycling Centre in Easton Street, High Wycombe, on Friday 9th October. The project has been supported through our Environmental Improvement Group (EIG).
One of our tenant volunteers attended the launch alongside two staff members, where they heard more about the work already being carried out by Wycombe Mind volunteers.
The recycling project works alongside the Red Kite-funded Free Space project, which supports the decluttering of homes and gardens. Rather than unwanted belongings simply going to landfill, volunteers sort through items so they can be reused, repaired or recycled within the local community. This includes carefully preparing china and collectables for resale, working with Central Aid on furniture and making use of the High Wycombe Repair Café.
EIG funding has also helped pay for storage and transport of larger items and furniture. Our tenants have already benefited from support to declutter their homes, as well as help accessing recycled furniture and appliances when they need them. Some tenants have also been given the opportunity to volunteer with the project, helping them feel part of the volunteering community while supporting their mental wellbeing.
There’s a learning aspect too: Trainee social workers take part in house clearances and recycling activities to develop their understanding of how hoarding disorders can affect vulnerable people and contribute to self-neglect.
During the launch, volunteers were recognised for their individual contributions, including three Red Kite tenants. There was also some fantastic news for the team: the project has reached the final shortlist in a national Mind competition for community projects, with the winner due to be announced in December.
