Dialling up repair skills for the smartphone generation
Delivered by Team Repair, an innovative social enterprise known for its successful primary school repair kits, the pilot marks an important step in extending their impact to an adult audience. This new session focused on developing the skills needed to repair mobile phones, one of the most commonly owned and frequently replaced devices among adults.
Students who attended learnt how to safely use specialist repair tools and apply new skills by repairing a simulated phone model. The hands-on workshop is designed to reduce dependency on replacements and highlight the value of repair in extending a products lifespan.
The pilot will also play a key role in the development of Team Repair’s new adult-focused toolkit. Students were asked to share feedback throughout the session, including their confidence levels in repair before and after taking part, helping to shape future versions of the programme.
Unite Students resident, Maithili, said: “It was a very practical, hands-on experience, the kit and the guide were very useful. The event gave me confidence and made me feel smart repairing by myself.”
The pilot was offered to one group of students living at Walmsley Studios, with the potential for expansion into other Unite Students properties in the future.
SUEZ has worked with Team Repair for over three years, focusing mostly on the use of repair kits in primary schools to promote repair and the circular economy.
James Tiernan, Head of Sustainability at Unite Students, said: “We’re always looking for fresh, innovative ways to embed sustainability into everyday life, making responsible choices easier, more practical, and more meaningful for our residents and colleagues.
"Partnering with SUEZ on this trial project has given us an amazing opportunity to empower young people with real, hands-on skills while building their confidence to fix their own electronics rather than replace them.
"By choosing repair over replacement, we’re not only helping our residents save money, but creating lasting sustainable habits."
Will Rushgrove, Key Account Manager for SUEZ, said: “It’s been fantastic to be able to bring together our customer Unite Students, and Team Repair to collaborate on this project. Supporting the development of this adult focused programme reflects SUEZ’s commitment to re-use and repair.
“By supporting initiatives like this pilot, SUEZ continues to help customers and communities take practical steps towards waste reduction, reuse and a more circular economy.”