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Through challenging times, Britain has been united during lockdown generating a sense of community stronger than ever.
As a result, the sharing economy is booming, as generous Britons rally together to help those around them.
Best known for reducing food waste, sharing app OLIO has recently seen an influx of listings for household goods.
It has seen a 213% increase in non-food items being shared for free amongst its two million members over the last eight weeks.
Many have taken advantage of their time at home to clear out their wardrobes, kitchen drawers and bathroom cabinets.
Rather than binning unwanted items, by simply sharing them through the app they have both reduced waste and provided something useful to someone in their community.
‘We have seen a huge increase in users of the app sharing bits from around the home in recent months. Spending more time indoors has encouraged many to sort through their belongings and clear out anything no longer of use.’
TESSA CLARKE
Co-founder of OLIO
Studies have found that decluttering the home has a positive impact on mental health, and linked a messy environment with chronic stress.
With many already feeling the pressure in lockdown, removing unwanted items from the home can help people focus and feel more relaxed.
‘The charity shops have reopened recently so it’s the perfect time to declutter the home. It’s obviously great to support them, but they can’t take some items such as buggies, cushions, kitchenware and electrical appliances. In sharing these on OLIO, these items can be passed on to those in the local community.
‘Since lockdown particularly we’ve seen an increase in people sharing toys, books, toiletries, kitchenware, clothes – absolutely everything. This allows people to not only tidy up their homes, but also brings neighbours together to reduce waste.’TESSA CLARKE
Co-founder of OLIO
To share on OLIO, users simply snap a picture of their items and add them to OLIO.
Neighbours then receive customised alerts and can request anything that takes their fancy. Pickup is arranged via private messaging within the app, and often takes place the same day.
Most charities are generally happy to take clean clothing, knitted items and blankets, shoes and bags, accessories and jewellery, books, CDs and DVDs (that aren’t home recorded), homeware (such as ornaments, china, kitchenware and photo frames), children’s toys and games (with a CE label if it’s a soft toy), bric-a-brac and paintings
More unusual items such as sports equipment, musical instruments and home furnishings may also be welcomed, but it’s best to call your local shop to check.
Some items, such as bicycles, furniture that has fire safety labels and mobile phones may also be accepted depending on their condition and the shop in question.
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