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Somerset recycling and reuse groups handed £50,000 to reduce waste

Paul JonesDecember 3, 20250 Comment0

MORE than £50,000 has been handed to Somerset groups dedicated to reducing waste.

The money has come from the Waste Not Somerset Fund, managed by Somerset Community Foundation (SCF), and jointly funded by Somerset Council and collections contractor SUEZ recycling and recovery UK.

It reinvests income generated from the sale of recyclable materials, supporting groups to reduce waste, increase reuse and repair, and encourage sustainable behaviour.

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

“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.”

Last year, four groups received grants from the Fund, with a further five supported in the latest round.

This year’s grants from the Waste Not Somerset Fund were awarded to projects across the county, including:
• able2achieve – helping set up a Yeovil Repair Shop and expanding its reach.
• Bridie’s Farm – establishing a community composting loop and recycling hub in Glastonbury.
• Donate IT – funding 1 staff member to manage donated tech and reduce digital exclusion across Somerset.
• Wellington Methodist Church – expanding a clothes and equipment swap for babies and children under 5, aimed at disadvantaged families in Wellington.
• Weston Hospicecare – creating an upcycling and repair zone in Burnham-on-Sea.

Successful applicants were chosen by a panel with representatives from SUEZ, Somerset Council, Community Action Groups Somerset and SCF.

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

Samuel Fisher, senior community liaison Mmnager 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.”

Councillor Richard Wilkins, executive member for transport and waste services at Somerset Council, added: “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.”