5 August 2010

Highlands and Islands Labour MSP Rhoda Grant is urging people to donate furniture and white goods to a local social enterprise which is increasing its help for the most vulnerable in society.

Established in 2000, New Start Highland is a local social enterprise serving communities in the Highlands by providing support and assistance to people who are moving from homelessness, long-term employed or otherwise experiencing social exclusion.

Its aim is to support them so they realise their potential as they work towards a sustainable future - for themselves, their families and their community.

New Start's range of services includes furniture and electrical goods reuse, employment training, housing support, and supported volunteering opportunities.

Mrs. Grant recently visited the charity's Inverness and Invergordon warehouse and shops, where she learned that it has opened a base in Kinlochleven and is currently looking for premises in Fort William too.

She said: " I am really impressed with what New Start Highland has achieved since it began a decade ago and am excited by their plans for the future.

"I want to encourage people to donate furniture and white goods which the charity will recycle and resell in their shops or donate to those who require this
assistance.

"New Start will pick up any items for free provided they can be repaired and refurbished.

"I would also urge folk to buy stuff in the New Start shops too as, no matter how big or small their purchase, their money will go directly to help those in need."

New Start Highland provides household items necessary to set up a home, valuable training to develop the confidence and skills required to enter employment and become more independent, whilst working towards zero waste in the Highlands.

In the last year alone, New Start has delivered furniture to over 2500 houses, supported 231 people to maintain their tenancy and develop skills, along with diverting over 750 tonnes from land fill.

New Start offers ways for people to help in creating opportunities for people in our communities, through donating any item which can help make a house a home including domestic appliances and furniture.

There are also opportunities to join the charity's dynamic volunteering team.

It now also provides a support service to assist during the initial challenging time of taking up a new tenancy.

Anyone who would like to take advantage of this should contact the charity direct on 01463 728786 or ask for a referral from Highland Council or any other partner agency.

Website address : http://www.newstarthighland.org

  Share This Page