Grants from Waste not Somerset Fund awarded to nine groups

The Waste Not Somerset Fund, managed by Somerset Community Foundation (SCF), has awarded more than £50,000 to nine Somerset-based groups focused on reducing landfill through practical, creative schemes.

The fund is jointly backed by Somerset Council and its collections contractor, SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK.

It reinvests money made from the sale of recyclable materials to support projects that deliver environmental benefits through waste reduction and sustainability.

Kirsty Campbell, senior programmes manager at SCF, said: "The grants go directly to community groups who are making a difference on their doorstep.

"From holding clothes swaps for disadvantaged families to setting up a repair shop and collecting donated tech, we’re pleased to support the many creative ways that our communities are helping reduce waste and boosting sustainability in Somerset."

This year, five groups were awarded funding in addition to the four supported in the previous round.

The latest beneficiaries include able2achieve, which is setting up a repair shop in Yeovil.

Bridie’s Farm in Glastonbury is establishing a community composting loop and recycling hub.

Donate IT will use the funding to employ a staff member to manage donated technology and combat digital exclusion.

In Wellington, the Methodist church will expand its clothing and equipment swap for children under five, targeting families in need.

Weston Hospicecare will create an upcycling and repair zone in Burnham-on-Sea.

Cllr Richard Wilkins, executive member for transport and waste services at Somerset council, said: "Somerset communities are leading the way in reducing and reusing waste.

"We were so pleased to see such a range of initiatives taking place across the county.

"Recycling is great, but these groups prove that reuse is much better.

"We look forward to seeing the groups develop their projects and thank everyone who took the time to apply for a grant."

The panel included representatives from Somerset Council, SUEZ, Community Action Groups Somerset, and SCF.

Samuel Fisher, Senior Community Liaison Manager at SUEZ recycling and recovery, said: "Diverting unwanted items from disposal is a priority for Somerset.

"We have awarded grants to projects that will have a positive impact for sustainability, the environment and the communities we serve.

"We were impressed that each project showed an innovative approach to introduce reusable items back into the local economy."

Since the first round of funding in 2024, the programme has diverted over 20 tonnes of waste from being thrown out.

Somerset Community Foundation supports communities through grant-making and encourages local giving to fund action and change.

Each year, the charity distributes more than £4m to grassroots organisations.