Setting up home can be an expensive business. If you do not have all your own furniture, this topic explains how you might obtain free and cheap furnishings (and also inexpensive insurance cover for your belongings).
1. Recycling first project
East Lothian Voluntary Organisations Network (ELVON) Recycling First Project may be able to assist you with recycled furniture, for which you only pay £10 for delivery.
Referrals for the project come from a variety of agencies, East Lothian Council Homeless Team, Health Visitors, Social Workers, Citizens Advice Bureaux, Hospitals and Women’s Aid. Families must approach one of the above Agencies who will complete a referral form, which will then be sent to the project. The request will be fulfilled as soon as possible depending on the availability of stock at that time.
The project also supplies starter packs containing kitchen and cleaning items, bedding towels and curtains.
Unit 12a, Macmerry Industrial Estate, Macmerry, East Lothian, EH33 1RD.
Call 01875 615797.
Visit the Recycling First website
2. Freecycle
The Freecycle East Lothian online community is open to all who want to recycle something rather than throw it away. Whether it's a chair, a fax machine, piano or an old door, it could appear among the advertised items. This group is part of the Freecycle Network, a not-for-profit organization and a movement of people interested in keeping good stuff out of landfills.
3. Home contents insurance
If you are already an East Lothian Council tenant, or are moving into a council property, and would like information on our insurance scheme, see Insuring your belongings.
As many Housing Associations run similar low-cost schemes, Housing Association tenants should contact their landlord.