Managed by Somerset Community Foundation in collaboration with Somerset Council and SUEZ Recycling & Recovery UK, this fund is dedicated to reducing waste by encouraging reuse, repair, and recycling initiatives tailored to local communities.

Grants typically range from £5,000 to £10,000 per project, making it possible for both grassroots groups and growing initiatives to secure essential support. This funding can bring new ideas to life, scale up successful work, or extend proven projects into new areas across the county, excluding Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset.

Projects that can be supported include capital costs, such as equipment, as well as project-related expenses like staff time. The fund is designed to back creative approaches that prevent waste from going to disposal—whether through community-led refill schemes, repair workshops, or recycling drives that make a tangible difference.

To be considered, applicants must operate within Somerset and adhere to minimum governance standards for nonprofit groups. Reporting is simple but meaningful: groups are asked to measure waste diverted from disposal, record the number of people reached, and reflect how the local community is involved. Stories of impact—like volunteer engagement or social connections formed during the initiative—help bring applications to life.

Successful examples already show the power of this approach. Community-led reuse shops, bike repair collectives, and community pantries have diverted tonnes of waste, fostered skills development, and helped connect residents in sustainable and creative ways.

With decisions typically communicated by early November 2025, this funding round invites Somerset-based changemakers to turn ideas into action—building a greener, more connected future for the county.

For more information, visit Somerset Community Foundation.