THE REPAIR CAFÉ

Hungerford’s Repair Café returned to the Croft Hall on Saturday 21st March, as over 50 visitors brought in their damaged household goods or clothing for some TLC. In total, the event prevented an estimated 83 kilograms of goods from being thrown away prematurely or ending up in landfill; a compelling demonstration of the environmental impact that community repair can have.

One of the more heart-warming repairs of the day involved a young boy’s beloved soft toy dog. The toy, which talks and lights up at the touch of buttons on its paws and hands, had developed a wiring fault that left it silent and dark. Volunteer Ken worked carefully to diagnose and fix the problem, partially restoring the toy’s functions and bringing a big smile back to its owner’s face; a reminder of just why community repair matters.

Visitors were generous with their feedback. One wrote: “Very pleased, my first time here. Really nice people” Another declared “Delighted to have this fixed. Grandchildren will be even happier” while a third summed up the spirit of the day perfectly: “As always, great craftsmanship. Very happy with my bathrobe, it’s as new again”

Hungerford Repair Café is part of a growing global movement. The UK now has over 400 Repair Cafés, and momentum is building at a policy level too: the EU’s Right to Repair Directive, passed in 2024 and coming into force across member states in 2026, will require manufacturers to make spare parts more accessible and affordable, and will prohibit practices that block independent repairs. Closer to home, UK legislation already requires manufacturers to offer longer warranties and spare parts for many appliances.

Hungerford Repair Café will open its doors again on Saturday 16th May 2026 at 10:00 am to 12:30 pm in the Croft Hall. If you would like to know more, or if you’re interested in volunteering with us, please email info@hungerfordrepaircafe.org.uk.