The three Rs of recycling are easy to remember. But where in Devon can you put it all into practise and give back to your local community? We look at some of the organisations providing skills development and help for those in need while saving the planet to boot.

Repair Cafés
The number of repair cafés in Devon are growing rapidly. They’re a fantastic community initiative where skilled fixers donate their time and knowledge to fixing your household items that may otherwise end up in landfill. It’s a place of togetherness. Items are fixed in real-time where possible, giving you the chance to converse with skilled members of the community and give your donation and thanks in person. Or, use the tools and materials to have a go at fixing items yourself!

There are over 2,000 repair cafés worldwide! Locally they are already in operation in Exeter, Exmouth, Sidmouth, Tiverton, Crediton, Ashburton, Bishopsteignton, Dartington, Honiton and Bradninch to name a few, with new groups popping up all the time. Learn more and find your nearest at www.repaircafe.org

Preloved Furniture
Websites like Freecycle and Gumtree are well-known for finding or giving away a freebie. But there are a number of organisations that accept donations for any household items that could be given a new home.

Among them are ReFurnish Devon who work in partnership with local authorities and community groups to run their 10 Reuse Shops across Devon – providing refurbished or reusable furniture and appliances for resale at a low cost to those in need. They offer additional discounts to those on a means tested benefit or claiming a pension and a free collection service for those looking to donate. Find out more at www.refurnish.org.uk 

Turntable is another local charitable organisation collecting donated furniture, carpets and household items for free, operating in the Exeter area. Unlike ReFurnish Devon, these items are only available for a nominal fee to those on a means-tested benefit or referred by an approved referrer. The service is run by long-term unemployed people who volunteer to develop their skills to help them secure full-time employment. Find out more at www.turntable.org.uk

Community Bicycle Reuse Schemes
That old bike in the shed that you think is past it probably still has a good amount of life left in it yet. That’s what Ride On believe, the Exeter-based social enterprise that restores unwanted bikes and then offers them to the community at significantly reduced prices. It’s a great way to get hold of a pre-loved bike or somewhere to take your unused space takers to provide use for someone else.

What’s more, the organisation runs bike maintenance skill sessions for adults and children so that you can keep your bike in good order for a longer lifespan. www.rideoncycling.org 

Scrapstores

Looking for materials for your arts and crafts or other creative activities? Head to Exeter Scrapstore in Belmont Park – a creative charity providing useful resources and materials gathered from factories and businesses that are looking to recycle their excess that would otherwise go to waste. From knitting wool and fabrics to paints, glues, wooden craft items and more, it’s a great local initiative to support. Find out more at www.exeterscrapstore.co.uk