Furniture recycling scheme helps the planet and people impacted by pandemic

Salix Homes’ furniture recycling scheme has helped divert 144 tonnes of furniture away from landfill sites – and has been credited with helping our residents avoid debt.

Today it’s Global Recycling Day (Thursday, March 18) and we’re raising awareness of our successful pre-loved furniture recycling scheme, which has made a huge impact on the lives of hundreds of our tenants.

The scheme was launched in July 2019 to recycle unwanted furniture that was donated or left behind when tenants move out and give it to residents who need it most.

Initially, the scheme was only available for new tenants who may need help setting up their new home, but it is now open to any Salix Homes tenant who may be experiencing financial hardship and has proved a lifeline for many during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Maria Lester, environmental services manager at Salix Homes, said: “Some of our tenants aren’t in the position to buy everything new or they’re having to choose between furnishing their home or paying their rent.

“The pandemic has led to people losing their jobs or being furloughed, so if something breaks and they cannot afford a new one, then we will help.

“Thanks to this scheme, people who are struggling can come down to our warehouse and pick what they need to help avoid them going into debt.”

Since the scheme’s launch, there have been around 400 referrals, with several coming from our Income Management Team, who are available to offer support and advice to any tenants experiencing financial difficulty.

Sharon Simmonds, income manager at Salix Homes, said: “We’re here to help our customers who are experiencing financial hardship and we’ve seen an increase in the number of people struggling during the pandemic. For many residents, the Furniture Recycling Scheme has been a lifeline and we’ve been able to supply residents with essential items including cookers, fridges and beds, and help them avoid going into debt or slipping into rent arrears.”

Maria added: “This Global Recycling Day, we’re urging people to do their bit to help the environment-whether it be recycling household waste or recycling furniture. If you’ve got any household items that you no longer want, you may be able to donate it to our recycling scheme. You’ll not only be helping the planet, but people impacted by the pandemic too.”

The scheme is only currently available for Salix Homes tenants. For more information on donating furniture or if you could make use of this service please get in touch by calling Janine Hart, Salix Homes recycling co-ordinator on 0800 218 2000.

If you are struggling to pay your rent or bills and need advice or support, you can also contact our Income Management Team on 0800 218 2000.