The excellent quality of the tools and Singer sewing machines that are donated make them worth shipping across the world, as they are durable and can be repaired. They are also recycled. Without the input of the workshops in Scotland and Northern Ireland, we would be forced to buy tools and machines in Malawi, which are cheaply made, break easily and cannot be repaired.

The tools and sewing machines are refurbished by groups of adults with learning difficulties, mental health difficulties, people with dementia, retired people, international volunteers and others. One thing everyone has in common is a love of well made tools and a joy in bringing them back to life. This project promotes skill development in Scotland and Malawi, engaging volunteers in international development, including people with learning difficulties, across the UK. There are many skills involved in refurbishing the tools and machines and the work can be adapted to suit any technical ability. The volunteers enjoy the social nature of the tools groups and find it really rewarding to be helping individuals so directly in Malawi.

Garvald – www.garvaldedinburgh.org.uk

Milltown – www.milltowncommunity.org.uk

Aberdeen – www.beannachar.co.uk

The Ecology Centre – www.theecologycentre.org

Tools for Solidarity – www.toolsforsolidarity.com