Worn again: how Merton Council's old hi-vis vests found a new life with GoodGym

When Merton Council updated their branding, a collection of perfectly good hi-vis vests became redundant overnight. The branding had changed; the vests had not. They were still functional, still durable, and — without a plan — heading for disposal.

Little A.R.K. said yes to inheriting them. The vests were collected, brought to Little A.R.K.'s pop-up space — generously provided by Places for London — and the upcycling work began.

The vests were upcycled and rebranded for GoodGym Merton — a community of runners and walkers who complete physical challenges while doing good in their local area. The volunteers who give their time to GoodGym's community tasks now wear those vests in public spaces across Merton, visible proof that something that almost became waste is instead doing good work.

This partnership carries a particular warmth because the support runs in both directions. Merton Council reduced its disposal footprint. Places for London enabled the work with space. GoodGym received a kit that serves their volunteers. Little A.R.K. connected it all. Everyone gave a little; the community gained something lasting.