Get a Price

The Basement Project: A Beacon of Hope for Worcestershire’s Young People

In Worcestershire, The Basement Project has been a lifeline for young people facing homelessness and crisis since 1998. From their humble beginnings in the basement of a local church, they have grown to provide a comprehensive range of services across the county. 

Wigwam Self Storage is proud to partner with this remarkable organisation, providing storage space for their donated items and equipment. Our partnership is a great example of how businesses and non-profit organisations can collaborate to make a positive difference in their community.

The History of The Basement Project

In 1998, a group of dedicated professionals working with young people in Bromsgrove identified a pressing need for a service aimed at supporting homeless youth in finding accommodation. This led to the formation of the Bromsgrove Youth Homelessness Forum, which eventually gave rise to the Basement Project. The project initially operated from the basement of a local church, which inspired its name. 

Over time, the project has grown and evolved, now offering a more comprehensive range of services covering the entire Worcestershire region. While still headquartered in Bromsgrove, the project now operates from Hanover House on Hanover Street and offers a drop-in service, a food bank, a floating support service, and the Application Station, which assists with job applications, CVs and more.

Addressing the Root Causes of Homelessness: A Holistic Approach

The Basement Project maintains strong connections with other local agencies, support services, and stakeholders to ensure comprehensive assistance for their clients. They work closely with organisations such as St Basils, Redditch Nightstop, Small Talk Counselling, the Care Leavers Team, and Bromsgrove District Housing Trust, among others to ensure comprehensive support for young people in need. A collaborative approach, such as this one, helps create a strong foundation for independence. This holistic approach has been successful in tackling the root causes of crises, such as homelessness and unemployment, by addressing issues ranging from family breakdowns and domestic abuse to financial pressures.

According to Kelly Turner, Community Fundraiser for the Basement Project, mental health is a significant concern, which is why they work closely with a local counselling service to provide counselling when needed. Kelly comments further, “our support is holistic, as our clients are usually experiencing several of these issues at once. Our clients have access to one of our support workers either via the drop-in service or floating support. In the case of family breakdown, they can access our mediation service, where we aim to help resolve any issues that may result in a young person being asked to leave the family home.” 

Measuring the Impact and Celebrating Success

“Everything I lost I have regained again, you helped me gain confidence and independence, and helped me get to a better place.” A youth who benefited from the project.

“I think I have it all under control. Everything is in place and the issues I have are sorted. Just waiting for the baby now really. I’m all settled and can’t thank you enough for your support. I will contact you if I need anything.” A youth who benefited from the project.

The Basement Project has empowered countless young people to bring about meaningful changes in their lives. Through targeted support, individuals have found housing, gained employment opportunities and fostered strong relationships with others, all while promoting positive mental health practices. 

The organisation continually assesses its impact through regular reports to funders, annual reports, client feedback and ongoing progress evaluations. It also hosts forum sessions to give young people a chance to voice their opinions and share their experiences.

Success stories like Stacey’s highlight the transformative impact of their services. Listen to Stacey’s story.

Future Aspirations and Goals

The team behind this worthy organisation envisions a future where young people in Worcestershire have the necessary foundation to achieve independence and manage their tenancies successfully. Their expansion plans include outreach to additional areas within Worcestershire, including Kidderminster.

“We have started to branch out across Worcestershire, so we hope that we will be able to continue this growth and support even more young people in need across the county. This will only be possible with the continued support of the local community, whose help we are forever grateful for. We have already set things in motion by starting drop-ins in Evesham, Malvern and Worcester,” comments Kelly. 

A Closer Look at The Basement Project’s Offerings

Accessible Drop-In Service

The drop-in service at Hanover House is open Monday through Friday, from 12 pm to 4 pm. Here, young people up to 25 years old can discuss their needs with a support worker and receive guidance on the available services. Although walk-ins are welcome, it is advisable to make an appointment by calling 01527 832993. The food bank is also available for those in need.

Essential Food Bank

The Basement Project’s food bank provides crucial support to young people who are struggling financially or waiting for benefit applications to be processed. In some cases, a substantial food parcel can even serve as a temporary solution to extend their stay with friends or family while more suitable accommodation is secured.

Comprehensive Tenancy Support

For young individuals who have secured a tenancy, the Basement Project offers assistance in managing their new living situation. This includes budgeting guidance, help with setting up utilities, benefit applications, job searching, and sourcing furniture and essential appliances.

Empowering Application Station

The Application Station is a recent addition to the project’s services, designed to help young people find employment or educational opportunities. Support is provided in the form of job searching, CV writing, and application assistance.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

The Basement Project acknowledges the significant impact mental health can have on the lives of young people. In response, they work closely with a local counselling service to provide necessary mental health support.

How can you support The Basement Project?

There are several ways to support The Basement Project’s mission:

Volunteering

Volunteer opportunities are available in fundraising, social media support, food bank assistance, office and admin work, and drop-in services. Contact Nina at nina.wilkes@basementproject.org.uk for more information.

Fundraising/Campaigns

Get involved in upcoming fundraising events or support ongoing campaigns like the Wall of Fame campaign. Contact Kelly at kelly.turner@basementproject.org.uk for more details.

General donations

Donate to The Basement Project through their website, in person at Hanover House, or contribute items to their Amazon wishlist. Every donation, whether monetary or in-kind, helps support their vital work.

By spreading the word about The Basement Project and their services, you can help ensure that more young people in need can access the support they deserve. To learn more, visit their website at www.basementproject.org.

6 Genius kitchen storage ideas for busy parents on a budget

As a busy parent, keeping the kitchen organised and clutter-free can feel like a never-ending battle. With so many appliances, gadgets and utensils to store, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and let the mess pile up. Fortunately, there are plenty of kitchen storage hacks that can help you keep everything in its place without breaking the bank.

In this post, we share six genius kitchen storage ideas for busy parents on a budget. Let’s get started!

Use drawer dividers

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to organise your kitchen drawers is to use dividers. You can buy inexpensive plastic or bamboo dividers that will help you separate utensils, gadgets and other small items. This will make it easier to find what you need and keep your drawers from becoming cluttered.

Pro Tip: Before buying dividers, measure your drawers and make sure you get the right size. 

Hang pots and pans

If you’re short on cabinet space, consider hanging your pots and pans from a ceiling-mounted rack. This is a great way to free up cabinet space and keep your most-used cookware within reach. You can buy a ready-made pot rack or make your own using a metal rod and s-hooks.

Pro Tip: If you’re hanging heavy pots and pans, ensure you use sturdy hooks and hardware that can support the weight.

Use a pegboard

A pegboard is a versatile storage solution that can be customised to fit your specific needs. You can hang everything from utensils to pots and pans to cutting boards on a pegboard, and it’s easy to rearrange items as your needs change. Plus, pegboards are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

Pro Tip: Before hanging a pegboard, make sure you measure your wall and plan out where you want to place each item, to avoid having to reposition the board later.

Use Lazy Susans

Lazy Susans are a great way to make use of corner cabinets or deep shelves that can be hard to reach. You can use a turntable-style Lazy Susan for canned goods or spices or opt for a tiered Lazy Susan that can hold large items like pots and pans.

Hang a Tension Rod

A tension rod is a simple, affordable way to add extra storage space under your sink. You can use it to hang cleaning supplies, spray bottles or extra sponges and cloths.

Pro Tip: Make sure you choose a tension rod with a weight capacity that can support the items you plan to hang on it.

Use Shelf Risers

Shelf risers are a great way to double your storage space without adding extra cabinets. You can use them to stack plates, bowls or even canned goods on top of each other. This is a great solution for small kitchens or apartments with limited cabinet space.

Pro Tip: Ensure you measure your shelves and choose risers that will fit your space.


If you’re struggling with a small kitchen and don’t want to get rid of items you don’t use often – but do use, Wigwam is here to help. You can store appliances such as your slow cooker (which you only use during the holidays) and other items with us. 

Not sure what size storage unit you’ll need? Use our handy Space Calculator. You can also call us and speak to one of our friendly team members to learn more about our self storage options or grab a quick storage quote online.

Simplifying your space: a beginner’s guide to decluttering your home

It’s easy for belongings to accumulate over time and turn your once peaceful space into a disorganised mess. Decluttering your home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With our beginner’s guide, you’ll be well on your way to simplifying your space in no time.

Step 1: Start with a plan

First, create a plan of action. Take a look around your home and decide which areas need the most attention. It’s best to start with one room at a time and break it down into smaller tasks to make it more manageable. Set a realistic timeline for each task to keep yourself on track.

Pro tip: Take before and after photos to keep you motivated and track your progress.

Step 2: Sort and categorise

Next, it’s time to sort through your belongings and categorise them into piles. One pile should be for items you want to keep, another for items to donate and a third for items to throw away. Be honest with yourself and ask whether each item truly brings you joy or serves a purpose.

Pro tip: Get rid of duplicate items and try to keep sentimental items to a minimum.

Step 3: Purge and donate

Now that you’ve created your piles, it’s time to start purging. Throw away any items that are in the throw-away pile right away – don’t procrastinate on this one. For items in good condition in your donate pile – take them straight to a local charity or thrift store. Just because you created the piles in step two doesn’t mean you won’t change your mind, so it’s good to get the donation and throw away piles before your inner hoarder takes over!

Pro tip: Create a donation station in your home and make a habit of adding to it regularly.

Step 4: Organise what’s left

With the excess items out of the way, it’s time to organise what’s left. Invest in storage solutions like shelving, baskets and bins to keep things tidy. Make sure to label everything to make finding what you need a breeze. Stackable containers and baskets are a great option as you can use them to make use of vertical space, which is often forgotten about.

Pro tip: Use vertical space to your advantage by installing shelves or hanging storage options.

Step 5: Maintain the clutter-free lifestyle

The key to maintaining a clutter-free home is to make it a habit. Make a conscious effort to regularly evaluate your belongings and get rid of anything that no longer serves a purpose. A little effort goes a long way in keeping your space organised and clutter-free.


Wigwam Self Storage also offers the perfect solution to your decluttering problems! Store your clutter with us. Especially the sentimental items you just can’t get rid of or the furniture you’d like to keep for your kids and grandkids one day. We offer a variety of storage solutions to fit your needs, from small units to store seasonal items to larger units for furniture and bulkier items. And if you need help moving your items from your home to our self storage facilities, we offer a van hire service to help you out. 

Visit our personal storage solutions to learn more about our options and get started on your decluttering journey today.

Out of sight, out of mind: hidden storage ideas for your home

Living in a cluttered home can be overwhelming. When there’s clutter everywhere, you may find yourself distracted and unable to concentrate on anything, from work to relaxing. The solution to this problem is hidden storage solutions. Places you can put your items out of sight and out of mind but still within reach. Read on for innovative and clever hidden storage ideas to help you declutter your home and enjoy being more organised.

Hidden storage in the kitchen

The kitchen is often the most cluttered room in the house, with countless utensils, pots and pans taking up valuable counter and cupboard space. Hidden storage solutions can help you make the most of your kitchen space. Consider installing pull-out pantry shelves in cabinets to maximise space while maintaining organisation. But don’t stop there! 

  • Have you considered installing a hidden spice rack inside a cabinet door? This simple addition can free up valuable counter space while ensuring they are easy to reach. 
  • What about a pull-out cutting board that doubles as a hidden storage compartment for knives and other kitchen tools?
  • Another clever storage idea is to install a pull-out bin for your recyclables and compostables. This keeps your kitchen organised and tidy while making it easy to dispose of waste and reduce your environmental impact.
  • Why not take advantage of the often-overlooked space above your cabinets? Installing a shelf or two up there can provide additional storage for items that aren’t used often.

When it comes to hidden storage in the kitchen, the possibilities are endless. Don’t settle for a cluttered and disorganised kitchen.

Cleverly designed wall shelves

Wall shelves are a fantastic way to add storage space to your home without taking up any floor space. However, traditional wall shelves can be unsightly and clutter up your walls. Cleverly designed wall shelves, such as cube storage shelves, can add both functionality and style to your home. You can use these shelves to display books, art pieces and other decorative items. Some designs even come with hidden compartments ensuring a less-cluttered look.

Pro tip: When installing wall shelves, ensure they are secure and can hold the weight of the items you intend to store on them.

Hidden storage in the bedroom

Transform your bedroom into a peaceful sanctuary with clever hidden storage solutions that keep clutter at bay. With the right storage options, you can create a serene environment that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Here are some examples: 

Bed frames with built-in drawers: 

Say goodbye to messy spaces with this space-saving solution. This functional piece of furniture not only provides a comfortable place to sleep but also doubles as storage.  Bed frames with built-in drawers come in various designs to suit your needs and style preferences. Some come with drawers that glide effortlessly underneath the bed, while others have drawers built into the bed board itself. Whichever design you choose, you’ll appreciate the practicality.

Floating nightstands with hidden compartments: 

Transform your bedroom into a peaceful and clutter-free oasis. These innovative pieces of furniture not only add a modern touch to your decor but also provide convenient storage solutions for all your bedside essentials. The hidden compartments built into these nightstands offer a discreet and practical way to store your belongings. From books and reading glasses to phone chargers, you can keep everything you need tucked away neatly out of sight..

Secret compartments in living room furniture

Upgrade your living space with furniture that not only looks stunning but also maximises every inch of your room. You don’t have to sacrifice style for function with these innovative furniture pieces, making them a must-have for anyone looking to streamline their home.

Ottomans with built-in storage 

These versatile pieces offer a convenient and discreet way to keep your space clutter-free while providing a comfortable seating option for guests. Gone are the days of searching for extra storage space, as Ottomans with built-in storage provide ample room to store blankets, pillows, books and other items. Plus, they can serve as an extra table for drinks and snacks or even as an impromptu footrest after a long day at work. 

Coffee tables with secret drawers

Coffee tables with secret drawers are more than just an ordinary piece of furniture – they are a functional and stylish addition to any living room. These innovative coffee tables offer discreet storage solutions to help you keep your living space organised and clutter-free. With hidden compartments built into the design, you can store anything from remote controls to magazines, books and even snacks. No more fumbling around or worrying about unsightly clutter on your tabletops! You’ll be amazed at how much you can tuck away in the secret drawers.

Hidden storage under the stairs

If you have a staircase in your home, you can use the space underneath for hidden storage. This area can be a built-in cabinet or drawers for storing items that aren’t used frequently, such as seasonal decorations, old photo albums or extra linens. You can even have your very own mini-wine cellar designed – a unique and easy to access solution to filling the gap.

Pro tip: When designing under-stair storage, consider the size and shape of the items you intend to store.


Whether you choose to use secret compartments in furniture, cleverly designed wall shelves or all of the above, there are many ways to maximise your storage space, including renting a self storage unit with Wigwam Self Storage. We provide safe and secure storage solutions whether you’re looking to store on a short or long-term basis. 

If you’re not sure how much space you’ll need, use our handy Space Calculator. Alternatively, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you! 

Top five tips to maximise your home office space

The rise of remote work has made home offices more important than ever. If you’re working from home, you need a space that’s comfortable and conducive to concentration. However, if you’re short on square footage, you’re probably struggling to make the most of your work environment. These five tips can help you maximise your home office space while ensuring comfort and productivity – keep reading to learn more.

Find the right location

Ideally, your home office should be in a quiet, low-traffic area of your home. A spare bedroom or an under-utilised living space could be the perfect spot for your office. Alternatively, consider creating a workspace in the corner of a large room, such as a dining or living room. Ensure you position yourself close to a source of natural light. This can significantly enhance productivity. Studies have shown that individuals who consistently have access to daylight are likely to reduce eye strain, headaches and blurred vision by up to 84%.

Choose the right furniture

Furniture is key to creating a functional and comfortable home office. Start by choosing a desk that fits your space and your needs. If you have limited space, a corner or a wall-mounted desk can be a great option. Improper seating arrangements in your home office can result in more than just discomfort. 50% of individuals who work remotely experience regular neck and back pain. Such pain can be difficult to alleviate and may diminish your remote work experience.

Pro Tip: Make sure your chair is comfortable and supportive and consider investing in a standing desk or a stability ball to vary your posture throughout the day.

Use vertical space

Don’t forget about vertical space. Wall shelves, hanging organisers and pegboards can help you keep your desk and floor clear while still giving you easy access to your supplies and tools. 

Pro Tip: Make sure you don’t overload your walls, too many items can become distracting.

Reduce clutter

Keeping your office tidy is essential for productivity and focus – and ensuring you have a spacious feel to your room. Get rid of anything you don’t need or use regularly and invest in organisational tools like desk trays and file holders to keep everything in its place. 

Pro Tip: A clutter-free workspace can help you feel calmer and more in control. Which in turn can boost your efficiency and motivation.

Personalise your space

Adding a few décor items, like plants, pictures or a favourite mug, can help you feel more comfortable and at ease in your workspace. If you don’t have too much space to work with, don’t leave out the décor. Look at purchasing hanging wall plants or simply adding one or two pictures to your wall. The aim is to avoid clutter at all costs while still ensuring aesthetics. 

Creating a home office that maximises your space is possible, even if you’re short on square footage. Renting a self storage unit with Wigwam can give you a clutter-free and spacious work environment. From storing stock to archiving documents, call us on 0800 2545585 to learn more about the business storage solutions we have for you.