Furniture appeal to help give the needy NewStarts

Buy photos » Newstarts Andy Godwin and Kevin Ireson with Worcestershire County Councillor Anthony Blagg (back) and Julie Street and Marion Cast, both from Newstarts, (front). s

RESIDENTS who have unwanted beds and furniture are being urged to donate them to Bromsgrove's NewStarts project.

The scheme, organised by NewStarts and Worcestershire County Council, is aimed at stopping the items going to landfill and helping those in need.

Good quality furniture and other household items can be restored to their former glory and passed on to those who need them - such as those living in shelters, women's refuges or people starting out again who have managed to rent a room but have no furniture.

Among the items being sought by the scheme are bunk, double, single and storable beds and mattresses, bedroom furniture, including wardrobes, bedside tables and chest of drawers, and sofas.

The items being donated need to be clean, in good condition and suitable for further use. All upholstered items must carry a label on each item indicating they comply with the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire)(Safety) Regulations 1988.

NewStarts can also collect electrical items, but only if they are in good working order.

Marion Cast, NewStarts' chief executive, said: "Through our project we continue to provide free furniture and household goods to many families in the area.

"The help with donations enables us to continue this work and is very much appreciated."

Coun Anthony Blagg, Worcestershire County Council's Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste Management, said: "It is fantastic to be working with NewStarts Furniture Project, helping local residents to reuse their unwanted furniture and passing it on to people who really need it."

Those wanting to donate should call 01527 882410 or e-mail admin@newstarts.org.uk for more.

For more and tips on how to re-use, log onto: www.letswasteless.com

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