Hi everyone, my name is Lynsey James and I have been volunteering as an Environment Action Volunteer for 18 months now. I was interested in this role because I am passionate about the climate crisis and wanted to use my skills and knowledge and get involved in something that could help in making a practical difference.
Leicestershire County Council supported me to complete a composting course as I really enjoy gardening and being outdoors, but at the events I attend with Leicestershire County Council, I get the opportunity to talk about all things waste. Preventing food waste, preventing plastic and general waste; advising communities on swapping single use items for reusable ones, as well as home composting. I really enjoy inspiring and encouraging others to make small actions that will help to look after our planet.
My volunteering time has been predominantly used to set up and run a pre-loved uniform scheme at my children’s school and I have been doing this for about two and a half years now. Children grow out of clothes so quickly and some items barely get worn. We ask the school community for donations of good quality outgrown school uniform, including P.E kits. Any unwanted or unclaimed lost property is also collected. I ensure the uniform is suitable, of good quality and is clean before it is put out for parents and carers to look through and take. We do not charge for this uniform; we simply invite families to take what they think they can use.
The scheme was set up with protecting our environment at its heart; proving that clothing, including school uniform can be reused. Running regular pre-loved uniform stalls at school has helped to reduce the stigma around second-hand clothing and it is now working successfully.
I would be happy to support anyone who would like to set up a similar scheme at their school and share what works for us. This scheme also directly helps our school community, as the rise in the cost of living has impacted many of our families and I am so pleased we can offer support in this way.
For more information about Volunteer’s Week, please visit the Less Waste site.