1 NOVEMBER 2007
FAMILY FIRST’S HELPING HAND FOR TENANTS
Nottingham people looking for homes for affordable rent will be able to move in quicker thanks to recycling and housing charity Family First, part of the LHA-ASRA group.
Family First will now collect unwanted furniture and electrical items that has been left in socially rented homes when tenants have moved out.
It means the homes can be re-let quicker, less furniture is taken to landfill when the homes are being prepared to be re-let and those items can then be donated to those in need.
Any furniture that is not suitable for re-distributing will be sold in Family First’s charity shops at Kilbourn Street, in Nottingham, and Low Street, in Sutton-In-Ashfield.
Family First helps people who are setting up home for the first time, for whom essential furniture and white goods, such as washing machines and fridges, can be prohibitively expensive.
Family First is going to operate the new system in its own 400 homes in Nottinghamshire. Should the scheme be successful it may be rolled out to sister organisation LHA or other registered social landlords in the area.
Managing Director of Family First, Patrick Taylor, said: “The great thing about this new system is that it’s so simple and everyone will benefit.
“New tenants can move into their homes quicker, we’re helping the environment by recycling unwanted furniture and people who are in need are given a helping hand by Family First.”
During 2006-07 Family First collected 8,500 items, benefiting 1,100 tenants.
It has six vans which collect donations from the general public and businesses across Nottinghamshire. The items are checked, cleaned, reconditioned and distributed where they are needed most by a team of volunteers.
As well as furniture, Family First collects children’s clothing, buggies, cots, highchairs and toys through our Kidstuff project, and distribute to people on low incomes.
Donations of furniture, white goods, children’s clothing and children’s items are always welcome. Volunteers are also always needed. Call: 0800 013 0497.