Dwindling funds could spell end for furniture recycling project

arbroath: Auction and later opening hours planned to help boost trading

The clock is ticking for Arbroath-based Furniture Recycling Project Angus, with funds expected to run out within weeks unless their trading situation improves.

Manager Elaine Duff said: “Last year was a really good one financially for the project, but turnover this year is considerably down, and the reality is that we only have enough funds to keep going for one month if things don’t pick-up.

“This will mean the loss of four jobs, but that is just the thin edge of the wedge.

“We provide a lot of volunteering opportunities, and for some of our volunteers, coming into the project really gives them a reason to get out of the house every day.

“We also prevent fly-tipping, as furniture that might previously have ended up dumped or in landfill is put to good use when we sell the items to those who really need them, such as those who were previously homeless, but are starting a new tenancy.

“The situation is very serious, however, I am putting in place a number of initiatives to get us back on track.”

The project will be holding an auction at the Wardmill Road site on Saturday, which will run from 11am until 2pm, where a range of furniture and other household items will be sold off.

A late-opening evening is also planned for next Thursday, when the project will stay open until 6.30pm, allowing people who work full-time to come along, something that would currently be difficult, as the site normally closes at 4pm and is closed at weekends.

Ms Duff also announced that the project has launched what is believed to be the first community repaint scheme in Scotland in partnership with a major paint manufacturer.

Although in the initial stages, the scheme allows people to donate unwanted paint which will then be available for the community, or for anyone who would like to purchase the paint at reduced prices.

Donations of paint are welcome and can be left in dedicated bins at the Cairnie skip site in Arbroath, or dropped off at the Wardmill Road premises.

Ms Duff added: “We provide an important service to vulnerable people across Angus, and I would like to encourage people not only to come along and support us, but also to donate any unwanted furniture, especially white goods.”

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We provide an important service to vulnerable people across Angus, and I would like to encourage people not only to come along and support us, but also to donate any unwanted furniture. ELAINE DUFF

Picture: Kim Cessford. Manager Elaine Duff at the front with from left: volunteer John Millar, staff member, Ryan Bond and volunteer Garry Brown at the premises in Wardmill Road, Arbroath.