Tools for Self Reliance is a UK based charity whose vision is a world free of poverty. We believe that helping people to be more self-reliant is the best way to achieve this. Nowhere is this truer than in Africa. For us the key is in our name, and we think Tools for Self Reliance hits the nail on the head. We give people a chance to change their lives with skills training and tools to get them out of poverty and into work.  The partner organisations we work with deliver practical training as well as business skills, marketing and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Each year we ship tens of thousands of high-quality refurbished tools and sewing machines to projects in Tanzania, Uganda, Ghana, Zambia, Sierra Leone and Malawi. The tools make a big difference and ensure the people who have received training can put their skills to use and be able to earn a living to support themselves and their families.

At our headquarters in Netley Marsh, Southampton we have over 180 volunteers who refurbish the hand tools, sewing machines and machinery which are sent to the African artisans who are participating in one of our projects. We also have a group of adults with learning disabilities who also volunteer with us.

This is just an outline of the work our charity does.  We would welcome the opportunity to give you a tour of our premises.