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The Benjamin Foundation, which operates re-use shops at Suffolk’s recycling centres in Bury St Edmunds and Foxhall, is benefitting from the money to provide local families with childcare, mental health, youth, family and housing support services.
The half-million-pound milestone came during the national Second Hand September campaign this year, with people pledging not to buy anything new during the month.
The relationship between The Benjamin Foundation and the county council’s recycling centres is helping us to protect the environment, but also supporting people too
A key part of this success story is the repair and resale of white goods. They are collected at Suffolk’s recycling centres, repaired by The Benjamin Foundation’s skilled technicians and sold in their charity shops, giving them a second life and helping families access affordable appliances.
Councillor Chris Chambers, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Strategy, Planning and Waste, said:
“Suffolk continues to lead the way in sustainable waste management, and the relationship between The Benjamin Foundation and the county council’s recycling centres is helping us to protect the environment, but also supporting people too.
“It’s heartening to know that every fridge repaired and resold directly supports local young people and their families through The Benjamin Foundation’s vital services – helping them to be safe, become independent and thrive throughout their life.”
The first re-use shop opened at Foxhall recycling centre in 2016, followed by one in Bury St Edmunds in 2020.
To date, the initiative has sold over 603,000 items, generating over £530,000, with over 300 white goods sent for repair, contributing to a CO₂ saving of 8,736 kg - the equivalent of powering two family homes for a year.
Gemma Green, Reuse Development Manager for Suffolk Recycling Centres, said:
“It’s amazing how much the repair of white goods can impact our carbon footprint, but also go on to help families that might find it difficult to afford brand new appliances.”
“Although we had a successful Second Hand September, residents are invited to donate reusable items at any time. You don’t need to book a slot to visit or donate at either of the charity re-use shops, and they are open year-round.”
For more information about Suffolk’s recycling centres and re-use shops, visit www.suffolkrecycling.org.uk