How can MASTT become more inclusive?

Hi

I was just wondering if we could set up (if we don't already have one) a "free-cycle"  for the wider community to recycle anything too good to throw away.  I suppose it would run a bit like an Ebay type thing without bidding and being open to the rest of the UK. Something that Slaithwaite and Marsden residents could use by posting what items they wish to recyle/donate. I remember that Friends of the Earth (High Peak) ran such a scheme (now part of a bigger Freegle forum though) with quite a high degree of success, there was one instance of someone donating a car.  I think if something could be set up which is kept "local" and "MASTT" designed (i.e. not incorporated into a wider environmental forum which runs the risk of being managed by outside influence etc etc), I think it could work. 

How it could work (possibly......)

1. I want to get rid of my old sofa which is in good condition but instead of selling it would like to donate it

2. I join the MASTT Free-cycle group or whatever we want to call it on the MASTT website which could be just a "messge board" at minimum

3. I write a small piece about my sofa with possibly an uploaded image of it and my contact details (which could be as little as an email address)

4. Interested members reply privately (more people might join up if they want to browse items or have items they want to donate) 

5. I give away my sofa and it is collected by interested local person

6. I have met someone new from my community

7. I have prevented something that was too good to throw away being subjected to landfill 

8. I am more likely to use MASTT Free-cycle before resorting to landfill in the future and more likely to browse MASTT Free-cycle forum for items I may want myself.

9. I am more likely to visit the MASTT website in general  whilst advertising my items or browsing other peoples items which may lead me on to getting involved in other events

Possible issues that would need solutions

1. Making sure that the free-cycle exchange does not take up a large chunk on Website - should be kept to a minimun to avoid people associating MASTT with that only.

2. Making sure that people without internet access can also be "included" in the scheme  - Items in the pot would somehow have to listed in  perhaps a newsletter, I suppose pretty much like the advert section in a local newspaper, not quite as effective as being able to browse photos though.

3. Making sure a MASTT Philosophy about the scheme is marketed to make sure people are respectful in donating items. Items should be given away that are fully re-useable, safe and in good condition because afterall you may be donating to your nextdoor neighbour and you wouldn't want them to have to mop up a complete mess in their kitchen because the washing-machine you donated blew-up on them!

Final thoughts

Overall this could work in the community as well as being able to fit in with MASTT's ethics and especially since these days money can be a bit tight something like this may prove quite helpful especially around Christmas time. It may be worth researching into if only to decide that it isn't for us afterall.