Essex has a number of scrap store schemes, through which businesses can donate items to local schools and community groups. This not only solves the headache of disposing of unwanted materials, it can also limit the amount of waste which is sent to landfill. At the same time, members can provide valuable recreational activities and arts and crafts resources for schools and community groups.

 

Such organisations include the Bright Ideas Scrap Scheme in Colchester, the Bits 'n' Bobs Scrap Store in Little Clacton and the Pyramid Resource Centre in Chadwell St Mary. 

The Bright Ideas Scrap Scheme is a not-for-profit workers' co-operative, which operates a resource centre for the town of Colchester and surrounding areas. This provides valuable art and craft materials to playgroups, schools, youth clubs and residential homes.

 

The centre offers a free collection service and can accept almost any non-toxic material, including: 

 

User groups pay a small annual subscription, based on the type of organisation and the number of members within it. Members can collect materials as often as they need at no extra charge.

 

The Bright Ideas Scrap Scheme is based at:

 

The Former Buoys Store

Hythe Quay

Colchester

CO2 8JF

 

Tel: 01206 798113

 

For more information, visit the Bright Ideas website. 
 

The Bits 'n' Bobs Scrap Store accepts donations and collects surplus materials, which are then distributed for use in arts and crafts projects in the local community. Members of the scheme include schools, playgroups and childminders, as well as local theatres and community groups.

 

The scheme is supported by members with varying degrees of learning disability and allows for training and development, which can lead to paid employment.

 

Almost any non-toxic material can be donated for reuse. This includes: 

 

Members are required to pay a small annual subscription, based on the size and type of their organisation, and can collect materials as often as they need. Bits 'n' Bobs also sells some items at a nominal cost.

 

Bits 'n' Bobs Scrap Store

Oakwood Unit 2

Plough Corner

Harwich Road

Little Clacton

CO16 9ND

 

Call 01255 863007, or email: admin@tree1.org.uk  for further information.
 

The Pyramid Resource Centre offers a wide range of materials to The Thurrock Play Network. Donated items provide valuable resources for play, recreation and educational activities for members such as schools, playgroups, nurseries, special needs organisations and children's centres.

 

The Pyramid Resource Centre is based in Chadwell St. Mary. Call 01375 387738 for further information.