Farnham Repair Café Celebrates A Decade Of Community Service

FARNHAM, U.K. - Feb. 27, 2025 - PRLog -- Farnham, Surrey. Farnham Repair Café will reach its 10th anniversary on the arch 8th 2025, "marking an incredible decade of dedicated service to the local community," says founder and chair Professor Martin Charter.

The initial idea was sparked when Charter listened to the founder of the repair café movement speaking at the Hannover Fair in 2013 which led to cooperation on research into repair cafés worldwide. The learning was translated into a model for Farnham and a series of pilots to test a concept in Farnham.

The café was launched in 2015 and since then, over 100 sessions have been organised with the initiative going from strength to strength. Its reliance was displayed when it continued to operate through the Covid years through adapting its model. In 2024, the café received the King's Award for Voluntary Service.

"The café has become a cornerstone of sustainability and community spirit in Farnham, providing residents with free repair services while fostering a culture of environmental responsibility," Charter states.

Operating on the second Saturday of every month at The Spire Church in Farnham, Farnham Repair Café has welcomed 6,000 visitors over the past ten years. During this time the café's skilled volunteers have successfully repaired over 2,600 items, ranging from household appliances to cherished personal belongings.

Waste saved from landfill

These efforts have made a tangible impact on the environment by diverting an estimated 7,500 kilograms, or 7.5 tonnes of waste from landfills and saving approximately 70,100 kilograms, or 70.1 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.

The café's achievements have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, Farnham Repair Café received the prestigious King's Award for Voluntary Service.  "The award highlights the vital role the café plays in promoting sustainability and building strong community connections," says Charter.

Culture of repair and reuse

One of the key factors contributing to Farnham Repair Café's impact is its mission to inspire a culture of repair, enabling product life extension. By encouraging and enabling individuals to get their products fixed rather than discard them, the café helps reduce waste and promotes mindful consumption.

"This educational aspect is a core element of the café's philosophy and one that resonates deeply with product owners who bring in products to be fixed from vacuum cleaner to bicycles to teddy bears," Charter points out.

Unwavering support

The café's achievements have been made possible through the unwavering support of its volunteers, who bring their expertise and enthusiasm to each monthly session. From electrical repairs to textile mending, their contributions span a wide range of skills, ensuring that the café can meet the diverse needs of the community. In addition to their technical expertise, volunteers provide a welcoming and friendly environment that encourages collaboration and mutual learning.

Website:https://frc.cfsd.org.uk