# Majority of people keeping unused items happier to donate them if benefitting local communities

- Link: https://fundraising.co.uk/2024/04/04/majority-of-people-keeping-unused-items-happier-to-donate-them-if-benefitting-local-communities/
- Published: 2024-04-04T09:30:00+01:00
- Author: Melanie May

**A third of people surveyed say that at least 20% of items in their homes are unused,
according to research from Human Appeal. However, 8 out of 10 would be happier to
give them away for free if they knew it was benefitting someone local to them.**

The research by [Human Appeal](https://humanappeal.org.uk/) is conducted by YouGov
in collaboration with local sharing app Olio, whose own research in December 2023
showed that over a fifth (21%) of items found stored in the home could be useful
to someone else.

With the cost-of-living crisis ongoing, Human Appeal and Olio are calling on the
public to consider sharing unused belongings with their local community. 33% of 
those surveyed for Human Appeal said that from 20% to 60% of items in their homes
are unused.

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When asked why this is, almost a fifth (19%) said they hold on to belongings they
feel are too valuable to give away, while nearly half (47%) keep unused items for
sentimental reasons. 84% however said they would be happier to give away an unused
item for free if it helped someone local to them.

Owais Khan, Deputy CEO of Human Appeal, commented:

> “As households continue to face economic pressures, local communities nationwide
> are in need of support. Our research shows that many of us have items stowed away
> that could help someone nearby who may not otherwise have access to them and highlights
> how community sharing can support those in need.”

Tessa Clarke, CEO and Co-founder of Olio, added:

> “At a time where we face a cost-of-living crisis and climate emergency, it’s more
> important than ever to foster collective action in support of local communities.
> We’re very proud to collaborate with Human Appeal and its research into sharing
> in the UK and encourage everyone to share unused belongings with their local community,
> when so many are struggling. We’re strong advocates of a circular economy at Olio
> and are very glad to see this message carried across the UK by those willing to
> share objects they no longer need with their neighbours.”

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