Repair Week returns for its fifth year from 3-9 March, bringing a series of repair events across London to help people learn, improve, and master their fixing skills. With many free workshops on offer, Londoners are encouraged to take part in this growing movement to mend, save money, and reduce waste.
In Wandsworth, events include Dr Bike safety checks, repair club open evenings, and hands-on sessions for basic bike maintenance and puncture repairs. Regular repair cafés will also run in Tooting, Southfields, and Putney, offering local residents the chance to fix household items rather than throw them away.
Judi Gasser, Wandsworth Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, emphasised the importance of repairing over replacing: “Recycling is good, but reducing the amount of waste we produce is even better. Many items are discarded unnecessarily when they only need a minor fix to be as good as new. London Repair Week is a fantastic opportunity to gain new skills, connect with the community, and give items a second life.”
For those who prefer to donate rather than repair, the Rework Workshop at Smugglers Way is accepting home furniture, white goods, bicycles, sports equipment, toys, tools, and bric-a-brac in good cosmetic condition. Items will be repaired and donated to charities, ensuring they find a second home rather than ending up in landfill.
Wandsworth Council remains committed to reducing waste and increasing recycling as part of its ambitious goal to become a carbon-neutral council by 2030. Initiatives like Repair Week and climate action microgrants—awarded to community groups, schools, and individuals for sustainability projects—are key to making this vision a reality.
Residents keen to get involved in shaping Wandsworth’s sustainability plans are invited to attend the next Wandsworth Sustainability Network meeting on 18 March to share ideas and learn more about upcoming initiatives.
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