Islanders struggling with cost of living encouraged to visit Jersey's Repair Cafés

Repair Cafés in Jersey are getting out their tools to help islanders save money.

Volunteer technicians are running drop-in sessions where people can get bits and pieces repaired, instead of having to buy replacement items.

Concern for the environment is one of the reasons this project was launched in Jersey.

Those running the initiative also want to bring together members of the local community and save people money.

Volunteer Technician Mike Panter says repairing everyday items has become more prevalent in recent years:

"More people are coming forward due to austerity and rising costs of living, it does mean people have less money to spend in their pocket and I think that's putting a squeeze on all of us.

"I also think more people are becoming aware of the environmental cost as well, people understand that anything with an environmental cost is a waste. 

"Now at events, we also often have a 'giving table' - which is a way if you have something you don't need anymore, you can bring it in and leave it for someone else who might need it - it is sort of like a free shop. Lots of people come in just to see what we've got there. 

"We've also joined with another group who specialise in providing clothing for people that can't even afford to use charity shops. These people can come along now and take any clothing they might find."

The next Jersey Repair Cafés are as follows: 

• 27th April, St Mary Community Centre - Grouville
• 11th May, Janvrin School - St Helier
• 1st June, Grouville Parish Hall - Grouville 
• 22nd June, St Brelade Parish Hall - St Brelade 
• 13th July, Janvrin School - St Helier 
• 3rd August, Grouville Parish Hall - Grouville 
• 24th August, St Brelade Parish Hall - St Brelade

The Repair Cafés typically run from 9.30am until 1.00pm. 

Information surrounding the events can be found on the Repair Cafés' website.