At Rebuild Site CIC, community drives everything we do. By diverting surplus building materials from construction projects, we’re not only reducing waste but also empowering local groups, schools, charities, and individuals to create positive change in their neighbourhoods. Whether it’s supporting a school garden or enabling community art projects, we’re here to help make a lasting impact.
How We Support Our Communities
Since our launch, we’ve supported over 280 community projects, helping more than 20,000 people across Cumbria and South West Scotland. By providing materials to these projects, we help stretch tight budgets and reduce waste. Some of the ways we’re making a difference include:
- Harraby Community Garden: We provided timber to create raised beds, helping residents grow fresh produce while promoting wellbeing and community spirit.
- Caldew Squirrel Initiative: With our donated timber, 38 feeding stations were built to support the conservation of endangered red squirrels.
- Prism Arts Workshops: By donating plywood, we enabled local artists and people with additional needs to create a stunning public art piece in Carlisle
These are just a few of the ways we’re turning surplus materials into valuable community resources.
The Carlisle Tool Library & Community Space
In 2023, we launched our Tool Library in Carlisle, offering affordable tool loans to community members. We have had over 1000 tool loans, saving an estimated £12,000 on new tool purchases while reducing the need for new products. Our community workspace provides a shared space for learning and skill development, with tools available for DIY projects, maintenance, and creative endeavours, and a range of skills workshops throughout the year.
The community space hosts a range of events from workshops and craft fayres to talks and presentations. It is available to be booked out for events and hosted visits that include a presentation from the team and a tour of the facilities can be arranged. We welcome a wide range of groups to plan a visit to come and learn more about sustainability and reuse.
Powered by Volunteers
Our volunteers are the backbone of Rebuild. To date, they’ve given over 8000 hours of their time to support our work—whether it’s running our shops, maintaining tools, or helping deliver materials. We’re proud to offer volunteering opportunities through social prescribing routes, placements for ex-offenders, and support for young people working towards their Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
Every volunteer plays a vital role in making our community stronger, and we couldn’t do it without them.
We also offer fantastic corporate volunteer days. Either for individuals who want to use their corporate volunteer day doing something a bit different or for the whole team to come and take on a project together.
Learn more about VolunteeringGet involved
We believe that building a better future starts with how we use materials today. By donating, volunteering, or partnering with us, you’re helping create a circular economy where nothing goes to waste, and everyone benefits. Together, we can support local communities, protect our environment, and make resources go further.
Want to get involved? Get in touch with us to learn more about how you can help.
Community News
Wetheral Playschool Case Study
1 February 2024
Wetheral School contacted Rebuild in hopes to be able to create a new and improved... Read more
Susan’s Farm Case Study
1 February 2024
The Rebuild Site CIC has a community-centric approach. Our mission is to inspire... Read more
Patterdale School Chicken Coop
17 September 2021
Patterdale School started a Chicken project as a way to get children who were reluctant... Read more