Benjamin Foundation chosen as re-use shop operator for new Bury St Edmunds recycling centre
The Benjamin Foundation has been chosen to run the reuse shop at the new Bury St Edmunds Recycling Centre, in Fornham St Martin, after it opens next month.
The charity also runs an existing shop at the Foxhall recycling centre, in Ipswich.
Items suitable for reuse that would otherwise be recycled or disposed of can be donated at recycling centres across Suffolk. The collected items will then be resold at the shops, raising funds for the foundation.
Cllr Paul West, Suffolk County Council cabinet member for waste, said: “430 tonnes of suitable reuse items were diverted from the waste stream across Suffolk’s recycling centres in 2018.
“The opening of the new reuse shop to support the existing outlet is anticipated to significantly increase re-use from our sites, while increasing the benefits that charities bring to Suffolk communities and allowing local residents to purchase items at very competitive prices.”
The items sold at the shop will be developed with The Benjamin Foundation but is likely to include electrical items, toys, furniture, ornaments, sports equipment including bicycles and golf clubs, CDs and DVDs, books, bicycles and DIY/garden tools.
Steve Longdon, regional director of FCC environment, which will operate the recycling centre on behalf of Suffolk County Council, said: “The partnership will help to capture reusable items being taken to the recycling centres which might otherwise have been treated as waste.
“This means we reduce the amount of valuable materials and products that end up being thrown away while supporting The Benjamin Foundation.”
Kirsty Pitcher, Benjamin Foundation director of operations, said: "We’re delighted our charity has been chosen.
"The Benjamin Foundation has supported children and young adults with a range of projects in Suffolk for nearly four years, including one-to-one emotional wellbeing support in schools. We also provide a home and support service for vulnerable young adults helping young people on the path to independence.
“We’re looking forward to continuing to work with other local charities and organisations to promote re-use and benefit the local community.”
To inquire about job opportunities at the new reuse charity shop, go to www.benjaminfoundation.co.uk/vacancies/
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