9 Lives Furniture

9 Lives Furniture is a UK-based charitable organisation and furniture recycling scheme registered under charity number 1096086. Founded in 2003 and based in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, the charity serves the communities of Watford, Three Rivers, Hertsmere, and surrounding areas by providing affordable, upcycled, and second-hand furniture to people in need, especially those experiencing financial hardship, need, or distress.

Mission and Activities

The primary aim of 9 Lives Furniture is to help residents on low incomes by collecting, refurbishing, and redistributing furniture and household items at low cost. The organisation operates a two-tier pricing system that ensures goods remain affordable for people with limited financial means, while also being available to the general public. This approach promotes sustainability through furniture recycling and reusing household items, reducing waste and environmental impact.

In addition to furniture recycling and resale, 9 Lives Furniture provides free training courses in furniture restoration and upcycling. These courses are aimed at individuals with learning disabilities or those recovering from mental ill health, offering them valuable skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. The supportive environment and skilled tutors help students develop both practical skills and personal wellbeing, facilitating social inclusion and community engagement.

Facilities and Services

9 Lives Furniture operates a charity shop and showroom in Rickmansworth where refurbished and second-hand furniture, chalk paint, clothes, and other household items are sold. The facility offers free parking and is fully accessible with wheelchair access and accessible toilets.

The charity also facilitates furniture collection services for donations, contributing to its recycling and redistribution efforts. Its opening hours run from Tuesday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, and on Saturdays from 9 am to 12:30 pm.

Community Impact

The charity has received positive feedback from participants in its training programs, highlighting increased confidence, a sense of achievement, and supportive community atmosphere. Through its combination of social enterprise retail, training, and charitable support, 9 Lives Furniture effectively contributes to sustainable living and social welfare in its local area.

Summary Table

9 Lives Furniture exemplifies a charitable organisation that merges environmental sustainability with social support, empowering vulnerable community members through practical help and skills development.

[1] https://www.9livesfurniture.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3991792 [3] https://www.instagram.com/9livesfurnitureuk/ [4] https://www.9livesfurniture.org.uk/courses [5] https://advicefinder.turn2us.org.uk/Home/Details/9511