Who we are
2econd Chance C.I.C. is a computer recycling not-for-profit committed to reducing e-Waste and a training provider for people furthest away from the job market. Alongside providing professional computer recycling services, including free computer collection and secure data destruction, we also deliver a training programme for people not in employment, education or training.
What we do
Working under supervision and as part of a team, our trainees learn how to refurbish donated machines which are then sold at affordable prices, to fund the program. As an organisation we are committed to bridging the digital divide in our area so a percentage of our refurbished computers are donated through our community partners to ensure they reach people in need.
Why support us
By donating your unwanted machines, not only will you be stopping them from going to landfill but you will be providing meaningful training and employment opportunities for people with learning difficulties and SEMH (social, emotional, and mental health) needs.
What we need
Working desktops, laptops and tablets up to 8 years old.
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We don’t collect WEEE waste as everything is reusable. If “WEEE” is to be re-used, then it never becomes a waste and can be classified as used electrical and electronic equipment (UEEE). Therefore, UK waste laws do not apply.
Secure Data Destruction
Data destruction takes place at our secured London premises. We issue certification giving you complete peace of mind that your data has been irretrievably erased.
“Thank you for the whole process from organising a date to the collection day. The best service I’ve used in terms of IT recyclables. I will definitely be recommending you to all technicians as I believe the reason behind the organisation is brilliant too”
Inspire ICT Ltd
Meet the team
Charlotte
Responsible for sourcing technological equipment and creating long-lasting partnerships. Prior to joining the team, Charlotte gained nearly 20 years experience within sales and marketing focusing on the luxury retail sector. She began her career at Selfridges and moved to Harrods where she developed strong brand partnerships, headed up and significantly grew the Marketing, Media Sales and Publishing teams. Having taken time out to raise her children she is now passionate about giving back to others and creating opportunities for those less fortunate. Charlotte said “I’m absolutely delighted to be part of such a great initiative, supporting an incredibly worthy cause and to be working with such lovely people at 2econd Chance”.
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Adam
I have been involved with 2econd Chance from the very beginning and it has been really exciting to see how quickly it has grown. Since I was young, I have always been interested in computers and thanks to 2econd Chance I completed the 5E training programme where I learnt about how machines worked, computer hardware and PC maintenance. As my first ever job the opportunity to be involved with 2econd Chance has opened many doors for me including meeting new people, giving me a regular routine and being part of a team. Since I started I can feel how much my life has changed and am much more confident in my everyday life.
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Mark
With over 13 years' experience in primary and secondary teaching I take the lead on the development and delivery of the training programme. Using my skills and knowledge from teaching children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities activities are tailored for every learner based on their areas of interest and ability. In a varied career in IT, Sales and Marketing I enjoy working creatively to solve problems, am adept at thinking on my feet and able to adapt to quickly changing situations. I love that every day is different, working with different students, adjusting what I do to cater for their needs and requirements. The second chance team is friendly, helpful, supportive and find creative solutions to problems.
Avney
I have worked in the IT industry for over 25 years addressing the needs of many large International companies. This has given me experience of the many varied requirements of different corporations. I have worked at all levels from desktop to data centres & cloud computing and been responsible for designing numerous IT solutions for global companies. I was introduced to Second Chance by the trustees and was brought on board to run all the technical aspects required and put an infrastructure and environment in place to enable the company to operate & develop. 2econd Chance has given me a great opportunity to work with a company from the ground up whilst at the same time work with people with a range of disabilities and see them thrive as they are given the ability to work in an environment and on technology that would otherwise not be available to them. This is very satisfying to be involved with.
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Simon
After 15 years in retail buying, I changed careers with a focus on helping people who find it hardest to help themselves. This led down many volunteering routes which ultimately led to working with people who have specific and complex needs and this is where I have stayed for the past 12 years. Within this time I have worked in both educational and social care environments developing and managing specific creative projects and tailoring these projects to the abilities and skills of each individual through a person centred approach. It has been key in all my roles, to support and advise the students or service users to enable them to show progression and achieve the maximum they can. Working in these environments is highly rewarding and I look forward to coming to work each day.
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Isobel
Having worked in a range of small and large cultural organisations over 20 years I support 2econd Chance with grant writing and developing meaningful relationships allowing it to grow to its full potential. Most recently I was part of the team at Alexandra Palace who secured £26 million from the National Heritage Lottery Fund to restore and open the historically significant East Court and Victorian Theatre which included a state-of-the-art dedicated learning space. What appealed to me most about being part of the 2econd Chance Team was the opportunity of providing meaningful work experience to people living with disabilities whilst simultaneously reducing the huge amount of computer waste produced.