Barriers set to go up at bring bank sites to stop dumping
ISLANDERS are still dropping off clothing at the recycling banks, despite all the bring bank sites being closed during lockdown.
Bags full of clothes have continued to be dumped at the sites, even though the banks are full and there is nowhere for the items to go.
Now additional measures have been put in place to remind islanders that the sites are closed, with closure signs and temporary barriers being installed. Tape could also be installed across the opening of the clothing bank.
The Salvation Army’s sorting facilities in the UK, which would normally handle them, has temporarily closed to all but essential activities during the lockdown.
The local agent, who manages the clothes recycling banks for various local charities, said he did not have a facility to store donations until the sorting centre reopened.
'We want islanders to keep recycling any old clothing that is still in good condition, but at the current time we have nowhere to send them,' he said.
'We are therefore asking everyone to hold on to items for the time being, until the current restrictions are lifted.'
Waste prevention and recycling officer Tina Norman-Ross said it was particularly important not to leave items alongside bins, as charities could end up bearing the cost.
'We always ask islanders not to leave bags alongside any banks, as it causes problems,' she said.
'In the case of clothing, if it is left exposed to the elements, it can get wet or damaged. These donations are destined to help people in genuine need on our islands and elsewhere, who benefit from the goodwill and generosity of islanders. 'That can either be through items being sold in charity shops, and the income then being used to support projects, or clothes being exported to other countries where there is a hardship.
'We are sorry for any inconvenience the current closures may cause, but we are all having to adapt under the Covid-19 restrictions, and the impact this is having on operations here and elsewhere. However the last thing we want is for the charities involved in the chain having to foot the bill to dispose of items that are no longer of any use.'
Anyone looking to recycle clothes or textiles should ensure they are clean and then put them in a strong plastic bag. They should then keep the items at home until the bring banks reopen. They should not be taken to the bring bank sites.
Once collections restart, the processors will be working hard to ensure all clothing banks are emptied promptly so islanders can drop off their donations as soon as possible.
A Salvation Army spokesperson said: 'While our clothing banks are closed, our churches and community centres across the UK are transforming the ways in which they work in order to help those in most need during this time. We would like to extend our gratitude and thank all our donors for their continued support.'
