A FURNITURE re-use project based in Barrhead has received parliamentary recognition for its work diverting waste from landfill sites.

ReUseIt has ensured close to 500 tonnes of furniture was steered clear of refuse heaps since its formation in 2010.

The charity’s efforts have meant that 79 per cent of the units donated to the ReUseIt during this time were sold on in a reusable condition.

Run by a small team of dedicated staff and 10 volunteers, ReUseIt has achieved this feat with no core financial support and only £85,000 of external funding.

West of Scotland Green MSP Ross Greer submitted a motion at Holyrood to recognise the organisation’s amazing achievements in December.

Following a visit to ReUseIt’s warehouse based in Muriel Street, Mr Greer said: “ReUseIt set a great example of how a small organisation can make such a positive social and environmental impact.

“Not only do they divert more than a tonne of waste from landfill every week, but they provide a well-needed source of furniture for local residents to furnish their homes.”

Mr Greer’s motion has been supported by 16 of his political colleagues across four different parties.

ReUseIt was shortlisted for Community Project of the Year at The Herald Society Awards in 2013 and then won Social Enterprise of the Year at East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce’s Business Awards two years later.

Those looking to pick up quality second-hand furniture can call into the charity’s headquarters at 14 Muriel Street, Barrhead, between 10am and 4pm from Tuesday to Saturday.

Alternatively, units can be collected between noon and 4pm on a Sunday.

Anyone who wishes to hand over spare furniture, white goods or small electricals – which still have fire safety compliance labels attached – should call the charity on 0141 237 1646.