London has topped the list in a new study that shows the cities fighting rising prices by donating or “Freecycling” their unwanted items.

The research compiled by the UK’s leading IVA provider, Creditfix, analysed Facebook group membership data to find how many people were recycling and gifting unwanted items (otherwise known as “Freecycling”) in the biggest cities and towns in the UK.

As a result of the cost of living crisis, some are turning to donating or swapping furniture, books and clothes to help those facing debts and the cost-of-living squeeze.

London came second in the list of the top freecycle hotspots in the UK, with 78,500 turning to Facebook groups to donate, swap and share goods such as beds, sofas and even musical instruments. Google searches for ‘free stuff London’ have also seen a 30% surge since September 2021.

Nottingham came third, with just under a quarter of its population regularly looking for ways to gift items to the community – or seek a way to furnish their home for free. Smaller cities Plymouth and Bolton rounded out the top five.

The Top 10 UK Hotspots for Freecycling

Commenting on the research, Layla Johnson, regional manager at Creditfix said:

“It’s heartwarming to see that even in the toughest of times, the people of London are putting their best foot forward and helping others where they can.

“Through communities like these, people are able to reduce waste on items they don’t want or need like fridges, sofas and even school uniforms, for someone who may have a use.

“The cost of living crisis is hitting households hard right across the country, but groups like these can ease the burden for some when needed.”