Community ambassador programme
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Strawbarter help guide
Straightforward guidance for making thoughtful swaps, sharing useful items and planning exchanges across the UK.
You could offer something you already own or a skill you can provide instead of buying new. Compare the whole arrangement, including any agreed cash, materials, postage or travel, before deciding. Any money is agreed directly between members; Strawbarter does not process member-to-member payments or mediate disputes.
Write down what each person will provide, any cash amount, who covers delivery or travel costs, and the timing. Make sure you both agree before either person starts work or sends an item.
Describe the item honestly, including wear or faults. Add clear photos, dimensions and what is included, and clean it where appropriate before passing it on. If you are unsure whether an item is suitable to reuse, check current guidance for that item before offering it.
Check your local council’s current guidance for accepted materials and available recycling or disposal services. Bin colours and collection arrangements may differ by council, so do not rely on a colour or rule from another area.
Agree the place and time in advance. Consider a public, well-lit setting and a time when you feel comfortable; letting someone you trust know your plan may also help. These are practical precautions, not a guarantee of safety, and you can choose not to go ahead.
Pause or decline if the arrangement does not feel right. You do not have to continue because you have already discussed a swap. Keep personal details private unless they are needed for an agreed handover, and do not let anyone rush you.
A general area such as a town or region can help people judge whether collection, delivery or a remote exchange might work. Agree the handover details directly, and avoid publishing a precise home address in a public listing.
Use your local council’s current information for local services, including waste and recycling. For opening times, parking, access or public transport, check the relevant venue, service or transport provider as well. Details vary by area and can change.
Include its condition, size, what comes with it, and whether collection or delivery is available. Use photos that show the item clearly. If posting, agree who pays, how it will be sent and when; keep the receipt and share tracking details when you have them.
Set out the scope, format, deadline, any materials or extra costs, and what happens if plans change. For digital goods, clarify file type, access and permitted use. If legal, health or safety requirements may apply to an item or service, check current official guidance relevant to your situation before proceeding.
Explain what you are offering and what you would like in return. The values do not have to match exactly: discuss what feels fair to both people, and suggest an alternative or politely decline if it does not work for you.
Let the other person know as soon as you can, and update or remove a listing when an item is no longer available. Keep the agreed terms in one place so you can both refer to them, and communicate promptly if you need more time.
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