ResLife ReHome | Accommodation | Newcastle University

ResLife ReHome is a sustainability-led initiative by Newcastle University, designed to reduce waste and ease the cost of living for students. Every year, we collect and rehome reusable items left behind at the end of term, and pass them on to incoming students completely free of charge.

By donating, you’re contributing to a more sustainable campus, helping fellow students settle in with confidence and making a real difference within our community.

Why ResLife ReHome matters

This initiative might seem simple, but the impact is huge.

Here’s what makes it worth shouting about:

It reduces waste: Less stuff in landfill means a healthier planet.
It supports students: Especially those who might be on a tight budget or arriving with very little.
It saves money and resources: No need to buy everything new when there are quality items already available.
It builds community: Students helping students, without even meeting—it’s low effort, high impact.
It sets a sustainable example: Starting your time at uni with reused items encourages conscious habits from day one.

What we accept as donations

Here’s what we accept as donations and how we process your donated items, depending on their condition and suitability:

Kitchenware (pots, pans, baking trays)
Coat hangers
Stationery
Clothes airers (non-electrical) and washing baskets
Unused kitchen supplies e.g., tin foil, bin bags, etc.
Decorative items compliant with confiscation policy
Books (educational/cookbooks)
UK-appropriate donations such as wellington boots and coats

What we cannot accept as donations

To ensure safety, hygiene and suitability for redistribution, we are unable to accept the following items:

Soft furnishings
Duvets, pillows and used bedding
Items that do not comply with university policies
Items in poor or damaged condition
Perishable food
Used toiletries
Cleaning products and tea towels

All remaining usable items not rehomed by January will be passed to charity partners like the British Heart Foundation. Items that cannot be reused will be disposed of sustainably wherever possible.

Event dates and times

If you’d like to make a donation, please visit your nearest ResLife donation point. We are accepting donations from 1 December to 19 December.

For more information and updates, please contact us on Instagram: @ResLife_NCL.

Donation Bin Locations

You’ll find clearly labelled donation boxes at:

Marris House Social Space
Park View Social Space & Reception
Kensington Reception & Laundry
Grand Hotel Common Room
Windsor Terrace Laundry Room
Bowsden Court Social Space
Kings Gate, Level 1

Donation bags are available from your reception team or in your ResLife social spaces.

Be a part of the ResLife community online

Keep up with everything happening across ResLife, from events and updates to ReHome news and student tips.

Instagram: @ResLife_NCL
TikTok: @ResLifeNCL