Across Bolton and beyond, people still don’t have access to a working computer. This makes everyday tasks, like job applications or online banking, much harder than they should be. At the same time, the UK throws away huge amounts of electronic waste every year. Much of it goes to landfill instead of getting a second life. Recycle IT! launched to tackle both problems together. It offers IT recycling in Bolton, putting working technology into the hands of people who need it most.
From Lived Experience to Community Impact
Founder John Hastings first got involved with Recycle-IT! as a participant on a work placement, having reached out to an employment support programme. He quickly saw its potential, and when the programme ended, he helped take it forward. As the earlier chapter of the organisation came to a close, John relaunched Recycle-IT! in 2021. The new organisation has a clear focus on solid foundations and long-term sustainability. Growth has continued at a fast pace ever since.
Today, Recycle IT! collects, refurbishes and redistributes thousands of devices a year, working closely with schools, housing associations and support services across Bolton. Since launching, the team has diverted over 270 tonnes of e-waste from landfill and redistributed more than 3,500 devices. Dozens of volunteers have contributed over 16,000 hours to this work.
Hands-on IT skills Training
Training is at the heart of what Recycle-IT! does. Volunteers, including people with disabilities and those returning to work, gain hands-on skills through workshops and T-level student placements. They also take part in community programmes like the Digital Den and Code & Create club. Recycle-IT! is now working towards ISO 9001 accreditation, and exploring an apprenticeship pathway to strengthen its training offer for the future.
Growing Impact
With support from John Good Group, Recycle-IT! will upgrade its refurbishment workspace and invest in essential tools and testing equipment. The grant will also fund extra training opportunities for volunteers. Part of the funding will cover collecting donated equipment from hard-to-reach areas, making the service more accessible and efficient. Together, these improvements will help Recycle IT! meet growing demand today, while building the skills, accreditation and partnerships needed for long-term growth.
“We’re thrilled to have been selected for support. It means so much to know that our mission to bridge the digital divide and reduce e-waste is being recognised. A grant from the Matthew Good Foundation will not only help us grow, it will empower more people with the tools and skills to thrive in a digital world. Thank you for giving community projects like ours a chance to shine.”
“John and the team at Recycle-IT! bring genuine entrepreneurial leadership and resilience, building something innovative from lived experience and a deep understanding of their community. Their joined-up approach to digital inclusion, environmental impact and skills development, from refurbishing devices to supporting volunteers into work, shows real social value in action. Their partnerships with Bolton Council and local services reflect strong community roots. We are confident in Recycle IT!’s vision, and excited to see this growth continue as they build a more resilient organisation for the future.”
Latest Project Updates
June 2026
Grants for Good Finalist
Recycle-IT! has become one of the top five finalists in the latest Grants for Good round, funded by the John Good Group, and will receive a grant between £2000 and £5000 after employees at the John Good Group have voted on their favourite causes.