Go the Roundabout way when it comes to furniture re-use

They say charity starts at home and Let's Waste Less is is asking South Worcestershire residents to think about going the Roundabout way to help recycle any items of unwanted furniture.

The council is working in partnership with Roundabout, an Evesham-based charity that gives a new lease of life to unwanted household goods by offering them to the public and people in need.

Roundabout, which is run by a dedicated team of 35 volunteers and three part-time staff, are happy to pick up unwanted items in South Worcestershire for free and can also deliver any bits that catch the eyes of bargain hunters.

Roundabout, which was set up in 1994, supports people that may be in need of a helping hand, such as those on low-income or people who have experienced an unexpected change in circumstance - for example if they find their homes damaged by flood or fire.

Through carrying out their charitable work the venture helps divert tonnes of costly waste away from landfill every year saving taxpayers' money.

It is one of a number of organisations across Worcestershire supported by the County Council.

County Councillor Anthony Blagg, Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste Management, said: "It is fantastic to continue to work with Roundabout, helping local residents to reuse their unwanted furniture by passing it on to those who really need it.

"Often people are updating their home and have items that are in perfectly good condition but that they no longer want or need. Roundabout helps to keep such items out of landfill and ensures that residents who could benefit them can get hold of them."

Bob Pooler, Roundabout Manager, said: "Roundabout is local charity supporting local people and our environment. In the past year we have prevented furniture with a High Street value of more than £500,000, from ending in landfill. During the same period we have distributed furniture valued at just under half a million pounds for re-use.

"The demand for furniture for people in need continues to grow and we are asking members of the community to think of us first if they have furniture in good condition to dispose of."  

Roundabout collects good quality household furniture as well as other domestic items such as crockery, curtains and ornaments. Furniture can be collected or dropped off by appointment, but must be free from stains, damage and comply with the fire regulations.

Members of the public can visit its 8,000sq ft warehouse, based at Blackminster Business Park, Evesham, to purchase furniture and other items, including books and ornaments. The income from these sales helps the charity to finance its operating costs. The shop is open Monday to Thursday between 9am and 1pm.

To arrange collections or to drop off items simply call Roundabout on 01386 833030. Or email admin@roundabout@btconnect.com. Visit Roundabout's website at http://www.roundaboutevesham.org.uk/