Londoners can now donate their unwanted electricals to charity thanks to a partnership between non-profit Material Focus and bereavement charity Sue Ryder.
The partnership led by Material Focus and its recycling campaign Recycle Your Electricals, in partnership with Sue Ryder, and supported by Curry’s, will be a three-month trial in 10 Sue Ryder stores across London.
Curry’s has an existing recycling agreement with Sue Ryder, which provides care and support for people living with terminal illnesses and neurological conditions, as well as individuals who are coping with a bereavement.
Consumers are encouraged to bag up their unwanted working electrical items and take them to their nearest Sue Ryder store. All donations will receive a £5 Currys ‘Cash for Trash’ voucher.
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Figures show that 108 million unwanted electrical items are unused in Londoner’s homes, on average 31 items per household, many of which could be given a new lease of life or donated to those in need.
Research has shown that 74% of UK adults would donate to charity shops if the option were available.
Donated items will be PAT (portable appliance tested) tested for safety and sold at affordable prices in Sue Ryder stores. The stores will accept unwanted working household electricals smaller than a microwave, including toasters, kettles, and hairdryers.
The shops will accept any electricals including tech, such as TVs, phones and speakers.
Deputy retail regional manager Wayne Hughes said: “We’re excited to work with Recycle Your Electricals on this trial and can’t wait to see the results.
“This will mean that we can start turning pre-loved electricals into funds to help support people dealing with grief or facing a terminal illness.
“At Sue Ryder, we understand the importance of providing shoppers with a more caring way to shop and stop items going to waste. We believe that by working closely with Material Focus, we can make a real difference in the fight against electronic waste, while raising funds for the charity’s important work.”
