Over £50,000 has been awarded to 9 Somerset-based groups dedicated to reducing waste through the Waste Not Somerset Fund, managed by Somerset Community Foundation (SCF).
Jointly funded by Somerset Council and its collections contractor SUEZ recycling and recovery UK, the Fund reinvests income generated from the sale of recyclable materials to support local 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,” says 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 4 groups received grants from the Fund, with a further 5 groups supported in the latest round. This year’s grants were awarded to projects across the county, including:
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 over 20 tonnes of waste from being thrown out.
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.”
Councillor 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.”
Somerset Community Foundation is a grant-making charity that helps build strong communities where everyone can thrive. They do this by funding local charities and facilitating local giving.
Join Somerset Chamber of Commerce to give your business a stronger voice both locally, regionally and nationally. Combined with local town chambers, we represent over 2,000 businesses across Somerset with a direct line to policy-makers at all levels.
