A new five-year sustainability initiative aims to save 25,000 tonnes from landfill by 2027 – while also raising vital income to fund life-changing care at a local hospice.

Isabel Hospice is launching 'Tonnes of Care' on Earth Day 2022, the worldwide movement to drive positive action for the planet taking place this Friday (April 22), with the simple aim of turning people’s unused and unwanted items into nursing hours.

Whether you are a conscientious consumer or a green-minded responsible business, the hospice is hoping the campaign will enable people to lessen their environmental impact and make a positive difference to the lives of people in their community, while pledging regular support to their local hospice.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Isabel Hospice has launched its Tonnes of Care campaign.Isabel Hospice has launched its Tonnes of Care campaign. (Image: Isabel Hospice)

Isabel Hospice CEO Helen Glenister said: “Tonnes of Care has been devised with the dual purpose of helping to reduce our environmental impact while generating the essential income we need to raise each and every year to fund our specialist care and support for those living with a long-term progressive illness, and their loved ones.

“With conversations around climate change on the rise, more and more people are moving towards living a sustainable lifestyle. Yet, every year, tonnes of clothing and other items that are in perfectly good condition are discarded and end up in landfill for no good reason.”

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Isabel Hospice has launched its Tonnes of Care campaign.Isabel Hospice has launched its Tonnes of Care campaign. (Image: Isabel Hospice)

Helen added: “Our 16 charity shops, and our eBay and Vinted stores, offer a sustainable and ethical option for people who wish to dispose of their unwanted clothes, books, electricals, and other household items.

"Selling these helps create a circular economy by providing pre-loved items to conscientious consumers and those who value quality products at reasonable prices. This all comes together to fund our work, turning your donations into valuable nursing hours for people who are facing the end of life or experiencing bereavement.”

Helen said: “Ultimately, we would like Isabel Hospice to become the first-choice charity partner for local businesses with a green agenda within east Herts.

“Getting involved with Tonnes of Care will show you how donating clothes and other sought-after items can help your business become more environmentally conscious and socially responsible. When everyone works together, we can collectively make a huge difference.”

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Isabel Hospice has launched its Tonnes of Care campaign.Isabel Hospice has launched its Tonnes of Care campaign. (Image: Isabel Hospice)

How you can help and get involved with Tonnes of Care

Your donations really matter

They have played a massive part in Isabel Hospice keep their service running for 40 years, making sure everyone in your community receives the care and support they deserve when they need it the most.

Do you have good quality items that you no longer want or need?

  • If you are decluttering or having a clear-out, please don’t throw away your unwanted items – donate them!
  • Donations can be dropped directly to your nearest Isabel Hospice shop during opening hours or to the charity’s Donation Centre in Welwyn Garden City, which is now open Monday to Saturday.
  • Alternatively, you can visit one of Isabel’s regular donation days at locations across the area.

Responsible businesses

  • As a business, you could ask your employees, suppliers, and customers to donate pre-loved items or end-of-line stock.
  • The hospice would love it if you would nominate your venue as one of their monthly donation points and invite your staff and the public to drop off unwanted goods.
  • You could even request donation boxes for your office or facilities, for the hospice to pick up when full.

For further information

  • Visit the website isabelhospice.org.uk/toc
  • Pledge your commitment to help save 25,000 tonnes from landfill
  • Instantly download a certificate to display in your home or workplace