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A new 'swap shop' initiative is aiming to bring new life to the nearly 40,000 unused toys estimated to be in Jersey.
The Government's 'Toy Swap Shop' is aimed at reducing waste and cutting the carbon emissions associated with the production and transportation of new toys.
In the days leading up to the Toy Swap Shop event, toys and children’s fancy dress items can be dropped to designated collection points in exchange for tokens.
Then, on Saturday 10 December, islanders can use their tokens at St Paul’s Centre to pick a new toy.
It's estimated that UK children have an average of four toys they've never played with. In Jersey, this could add up to 36,468 unused toys.
Pictured: Children's fancy dress costumes can also be exchanged as part of the Toy Swap Shop.
Jane Burns, Sustainability and Climate Change Engagement Manager, said: “Passing on toys keeps existing materials in use, cuts back on the carbon emissions from producing new ones and transporting them to the Island, and reduces waste.
"Most toys enjoyed in Jersey are manufactured on the other side of the world, and consumer decisions made here in the Island make an impact on global emissions.
"A survey by the British Heart Foundation revealed that, more than a quarter of UK parents admit to discarding toys that are in perfect working order."
She added: “It’s a bit of a toy amnesty, where those that are no longer played with are swapped for something that will be played with. We think it’s particularly apt to run at this time of year, with Christmas 2022 expected to be especially challenging for families with the rising cost of living.
"It’ll keep existing toys in circulation for longer, to be loved again by a new owner.”
Toys can be dropped at the following locations:
Maritime House – 5, 6 and 7 December (09:30 - 16:00)
St. Brelade Parish Hall – 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 December (15:30 - 17:30)
St. John Parish Hall – 28, 29, 30 November, 1, 2, 5 December (09:00 - 16:00 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, 09:00 - 19:00 on Wednesdays, and 09:00 - 13:00 on Thursdays)
Bel Royal Primary School, St. George's School Preparatory School, St. Lawrence Primary School, St. Martin's School, St. Mary's School and Samarès School are also accepting toys from their own students.
A token will be issued which can then be used at the Toy Swap Shop event on Saturday 10 December (11:00 - 14:00). A quiet half-hour for children with sensory issues will run from 10:30 to 11:00.
You cannot bring toys to swap on the day of the event and you must have a token to get a new toy as you will not be able to buy toys with money.
You can find out more here.
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