Individual schemes collect “half-tins” of leftover, domestic paint from householders at a donation point at the local council’s household waste recycling centre or civic amenity site.

Unsold and end-of-line paint is also collected from local DIY stores such as B&Q and Homebase, trade centres such as Dulux Decorator Centres and local outlets. Painters and decorators also donate leftover paint from decorating jobs.

The paint is stored at the local scheme’s premises and then redistributed to local charities, community and voluntary groups and individuals in social need. Paint is usually offered free of charge although schemes encourage small financial donations to help cover their costs.