The Recycles scheme at Booth House Lifehouse, which has operated for fifteen years, has been given a new layout and visual identity funded by the Horrell family. The money has reshaped the workspace into a brighter and more contemporary environment.
The project repairs second-hand bicycles and provides hands-on training for people experiencing homelessness. Staff say the refreshed look aims to challenge public perceptions of both refurbished bikes and those who work on them.
Simon Styles, who leads Recycles Booth House Swindon, said the donation has had a significant impact.
Simon Styles, project lead, said: “The donation has rekindled Recycles; it’s breathed new life into the project. It’s a lot brighter now, and the money has been well spent. The whole idea is to change people’s perceptions of homeless people and refurbished bikes. We put a lot of effort into the bikes and the training, and the new look reflects that quality.”
The rebrand has also prompted the launch of the Motor Club Cycling Collective. The group is made up of cycling supporters who promote the workshop’s work and ride in newly designed club colours to raise awareness locally.
The funding has strengthened the project’s core purpose of giving Booth House residents structured work experience and mechanic training. A new mechanic is now being recruited to increase the shop’s capacity.
Simon said the scheme continues to offer a route back into employment and stability for residents.
Simon said: “We work with people from Booth House, offering them training opportunities. The idea has always been the same, and quite a lot of our volunteers are ex-residents who come back. We help them with move-ons, as well as the training.”
The Horrell family were regular customers who became strong supporters of the scheme. Their contribution has enabled Recycles to expand its work and support more people rebuilding their lives.
Booth House Lifehouse in Spring Close provides accommodation and resettlement support for adults in Swindon facing homelessness. It offers fifty beds and round-the-clock access for single men and women over eighteen.
The centre runs several social enterprises, including the Recycles shop and The Sandwich People, providing work experience and life skills for residents. Further information about Recycles can be found via its website at www.recyclesproject.com
