We picked up 153 boxes of donations from people across Bedford Borough, containing over 1250 items, as the first full week of the Active Minds scheme came to a close.

Across the Borough, people are self-isolating, shielding and staying safe in their homes for what has already been a long period of time. The Active Minds scheme has been set up to help people stay busy and keep their minds active.

In amongst these over 1250 items, we received crafts kits, games, jigsaws, and books for all ages and interests. With the donations being set aside for three days and cleaned to ensure they are safe to pass on, we are now ready to start getting these donations out to people who need them.

If you or someone you know would benefit from receiving one of the active minds donations, please get in touch. You can request a donation online or you can call on 01234 718101. The team will then drop off the donation to your doorstep.

Thank you to everyone who has already donated for the amazing generosity shown. These are really difficult times we are all living through but time and again the community spirit of our Borough has shone through.

We are of course still accepting donations; please get in touch with the team online and someone will come out to pick up your donation.

Currently, the team are accepting books, DVDs, jigsaws, board games, small home craft items. Unfortunately they cannot accept large items – if it doesn’t fit in a carrier bag then unfortunately it is too big.