South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGS College) have given a ringing endorsement to a campaign from Stonehouse-based Lister Unified Communications to recycle used mobiles in aid of Stroud’s addiction charity The Nelson Trust.
Rob Lister, managing director of Stonehouse-based Lister, told Stroud Times: “We’re hoping we can recycle as many mobile phones as possible across the county. If we can all play a little part in recycling these phones, we could help some people in real need.”
He added: “To have SGS College and Stroud Growth Hub backing the campaign is fantastic news and will make it easier for donors from across the Stroud Valley’s to drop off their phones.”
The scheme is urging businesses and community groups to dig out their old phones, drop them in a box at their workplace and The Nelson Trust, which is a charity working to tackle addiction and social disadvantages, will come and collect them.
Alternatively, phones can be left at one of the Growth Hubs around the county, where you will find dedicated mobile phone recycling bins.
Mr Lister added: “There must be thousands of unused phones across the county tucked away in drawers at home or in the office that can be easily recycled and used to raise funds for the charity which helps women in crisis.
“Our mission is to get as many businesses as possible in the county to join this campaign.”
The old phones (ideally with all data wiped) either get refurbished and upcycled or broken down, since their components contain small quantities of precious metals.
The initiative is being supported by Gloucester-based BiGDUG, which has supplied the recycling bins, and BlueSky Signs, which created the bin signage.
Andy Jarrett, Fundraising & Events Lead at The Nelson Trust, said: “We are immensely grateful to Lister Unified Communications and all those who will generously donate their old mobile phones to support us.
“Shockingly, a significant number of women have their phones taken away from them as a means of control in manipulative relationships.This support not only helps reduce landfill waste but also plays a vital role in raising much-needed funds to support women in crisis and individuals battling addiction and multiple complex challenges. This collaboration exemplifies the power of community and generosity.”
The campaign was launched this week at the Gloucester Growth Hub, Gloucestershire University campus – with the first of the special BIGDUG recycling bins installed at Gloucester and Stroud.
Liam Evans Vice Principal Corporate & Community at SGS College added: “SGS College and Stroud Growth Hub is really pleased to be supporting the initiative to recycle old phones in aid of The Nelson Trust. Local businesses are welcome into Stroud Growth Hub anytime to drop off their old phones, which will either be upcycled and sold or disposed of responsibly. The Nelson Trust do great work and we’re pleased to be able to contribute.”
To have any used mobile phones picked up, you can also email andy.jarrett@nelsontrust.com.
