The Glossopdale Furniture Project is a registered charity based in Glossop, supported by Derbyshire County Council, High Peak Borough Council, Foundation Derbyshire and various Charitable Trusts. Covering the whole of the High Peak area it was set up in 1997 when it became obvious of the serious need for a charitable project of this nature.
Those it helps are referrals from social services, housing charities, women’s refuges and many other local organisations who support individuals and families in need. During 2019-2020 the Project supported over 150 households by providing free Emergency Packs of furniture and everyday essentials to those who have been homeless and given a new tenancy where the property has none of the necessary items. Depending on need, a basic pack can consist of a bed, sofa, chest of drawers, wardrobe, fridge, bedding, crockery, microwave, kettle and toaster to help set up their new home.
The Project is the only voluntary organisation within the High Peak offering such a service and is in constant demand. It is seen by the statutory and voluntary agencies who use the Project as a lifeline for their service users. Such is the demand, requests for the Project’s assistance have been received nationally from well beyond the High Peak region it serves.
As a charity, fundraising is on-going – because the need is always there. Relying on the donations of unwanted furniture and household items to maintain its stock, the Project reclaims, restores, refurbishes and upcycles furniture for sale. Its premises at Pikes Lane and George Street are open to the general public for the purchase of used and pre-loved furniture which goes towards the charity’s funds. With a growing trend in retro decor, the Project’s dedicated specialist furniture painting workshop is kept busy. This not only helps fund the charity but also benefits the local environment by diverting over 100 tonnes annually of good, usable furniture, from the waste stream.
