A CHARITY that helps low income families turn their houses into homes is expanding.

The County Durham Furniture Help Scheme (CDFHS), based in Chilton, provides affordable second-hand furniture to people in need.

The scheme was set up 11 years ago and with the help of dozens of volunteers recycles everything from sofas and kitchen tables to cookers and lamps.

Now, the charity is working from three warehouse units in Chilton's industrial estate covering more than 18,000square metres and helping about 2,000 people every month.

CEO Steve Mitton said: “We are a people organisation and that’s what sets us apart from everybody else. We have a good, strong team of volunteers and staff who work tirelessly to make sure everything runs smoothly.”

The charity’s expansion has also seen the introduction of a credit option provided by NE First Credit Union.

CEO of NE First and newly appointed trustee, Gavin Hennessey, said he was delighted to be joining the team.

“I knew the very first time I came here that this was something we wanted to be a part of. The introduction of credit means that no family is excluded simply because they’re unable to afford items.”

Mr Mitton added: “We would ask that anybody thinking about throwing any furniture away would please offer them to us first. If there’s a chance that we could repair and recycle then we will.”

The CDFHS is open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm and free item collection can be arranged by contacting 01388 721509.