End Furniture Poverty's story
Furniture is one of the most expensive items people on low incomes are likely to purchase and while there are many more support options for food and fuel costs, living without basic furniture is something that goes unnoticed, hidden behind too many front doors. Whether it's a mattress on the floor, a kettle as a cooker, black bags for storing clothes or no table, it is not hard to see that when there isn't enough money for food or fuel, furniture counts for even less.
Living without essential furniture items can have a devastating impact, not only on people's physical and mental health but also on their financial and social wellbeing. It can lead to isolation – you are far less likely to invite family, or a support worker, into your home if you do not have a sofa for others to sit on. It can lead to unmanageable debt trying to buy items, leaving you unable to buy food or pay the rent.
End Furniture Poverty was created in 2015 to raise awareness of the issue of furniture poverty and ensure that support to acquire essential items is available. It is the campaigning and social research arm of FRC Group, a group of not-for-profit charities that has been providing furniture, both new and preloved, to people living in furniture poverty for over 30 years.
For example, social landlords dispose of thousands of items of furniture left behind in properties every year. Some of this furniture is good quality and could reused, gifted to tenants who would otherwise struggle to furnish their home. Furniture reuse schemes not only help to address furniture poverty but can also help landlords achieve carbon reduction targets by minimising waste.
Useful learnings from End Furniture Poverty
"Don't give up! Be bold, but do not take too many risks – there is a fine line between taking risks and being really innovative, and surviving and being sustainable as an organisation. Find this balance and the sky's the limit!"
- Claire Donovan
End Furniture Poverty metrics
Partnership and awareness-building campaigns
Evidence-based research into potential solutions
Providing help to individuals, families and support workers
