At Second Turn, we’re dedicated to restoring, rehoming, and repurposing games, puzzles, soft toys, and accessories, ensuring they continue to bring joy, connection, and engagement. Below are answers to common questions about how we work, what we accept, and how you can get involved.
What items do you accept? We welcome donations of board games, jigsaw puzzles, card games, toys, and soft toys, even if they’re incomplete or gently used. If an item is missing a few pieces or needs some care, we’ll do our best to restore it.
What items can’t be donated? To ensure safety and usability, we cannot accept:
Items with water damage or mold
Infested items (bugs, excessive pet hair, etc.)
Strongly smoke-damaged items
Toys or games contaminated with hazardous substances
Items exposed to unsanitary conditions
Where do donations go? We distribute restored games and toys to schools, families, community groups—including both adults and children—SEN schools, and care homes, ensuring they reach those who will benefit the most.
How do I donate? You can donate by bringing items to a designated collection point or arranging a drop-off through Second Turn. Contact us for details on current collection sites.
What happens to donated items? Each item undergoes a thorough inspection, cleaning, and repair process to ensure it’s safe and ready for use. Missing components are replaced whenever possible, and soft toys are carefully refreshed.
Do you accept incomplete games or puzzles? Yes! Many donated games are missing pieces, but we work to replace and source missing components to make them whole again.
Are toys and soft toys cleaned before redistribution? Absolutely. We carefully clean and refresh soft toys to ensure they are hygienic, safe, and ready to be loved again.
Care Home Joy: Games and puzzles provide comfort, entertainment, and engagement for residents in care homes.
Community Support: Board games and toys foster interaction and connection in local community groups, benefiting both adults and children.
SEN School Engagement: Specialized games support sensory, cognitive, and social development in SEN schools.
Can I contribute financially instead of donating games or toys? Yes! You can support our restoration efforts through cash donations via PayPal, helping us cover costs for repairing, storing, and distributing restored items.
How does my financial contribution help? Your donation helps fund:
Restoration materials for damaged games and puzzles
Sourcing missing pieces to complete board games
Cleaning supplies for soft toys and accessories
Storage and distribution to ensure donations reach those in need
Other Ways to Help
Game and Toy Donations: Contribute items that can be restored and rehomed.
Personal Contributions: Financial support ensures more games are repaired and redistributed.
Spread the Word: Share our mission to help us reach more donors and recipients.
Organizational Engagement: Schools, charities, and businesses can collaborate to expand our impact.
Partner With Us: Businesses and community groups can support sustainable play through sponsorships or partnerships.