Computer charity counts cost of unwanted kit

Well-meaning people are causing a headache for a computer charity by leaving unusable, unwanted equipment outside its doors.

Sussex-based Computers for Charities (CfC) said since Christmas it has disposed of three tonnes of PCs, printers and scanners that people had essentially dumped on it.

Simon Rooksby, chairman and founder of CfC, said: “I know people mean well and only want to help but the bulk of household equipment falls outside the parameters for reuse given age, condition, etc.

"They are waste items. I had a load left outside my house one morning, just left on the driveway, and I could not get the van out.

“I am sure that most people don’t realise their action means CfC has to pay the recycling and disposal costs. CfC and myself personally are now bearing the cost of thousands of pounds for disposal and recycling in this instance.”

CfC, which was founded in 1994, refurbishes old PCs and peripherals; providing support and assistance to organisations across the UK and in 105 other countries.

Mr Rooksby has asked people who think they might have gadgets and gizmos that may be of use to call charities before they drop items off.

“We remain grateful for the continued support and supply of redundant computer equipment to benefit charities, schools and other voluntary organisations across the UK and overseas. But people need to call first to make sure we can reuse the items,” he said.

You can contact CfC by email (info@computersforcharities.org) or phone the charity on 01323 840641. CfC can then tell them if the items can be reused – if not, people need to contact their local authority to find out their nearest recycling facility or service.