Waste prevention community grant fund applications to open

Wednesday, 16 September 2026 08:00

By Philip Keeler

A grant scheme helping community groups reduce household waste across West Sussex is set to return following the success of its first round of funding.

The Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund will reopen for applications on Tuesday 22 September, with grants of up to £5,000 available for projects running between February 2027 and February 2028.

The fund is provided by West Sussex County Council in partnership with Biffa and is aimed at non-profit organisations developing new or expanded waste prevention and reuse projects.

Community groups, residents’ associations, charities, community interest companies and social enterprises will all be eligible to apply.

An online information session will also be held on the evening of Thursday 1 October to explain more about the scheme and application process.

The fund was first launched in 2025, when 10 community organisations received financial support for projects designed to reduce household waste and keep materials in use for longer.

One of the projects supported was the Makerspace Repair Café in Bognor Regis.

Expert volunteers held monthly sessions helping residents repair electrical goods, garden tools and other items rather than replacing them.

The project diverted 563kg of material from disposal and supported 286 residents.

Results from all 10 projects, published in July 2026, showed that more than 90 tonnes of material was diverted from disposal.

This included textiles, food, furniture, electrical items and other household goods.

West Sussex County Council says the results demonstrate the role local organisations can play in encouraging repair, reuse and waste prevention.

There is no minimum funding amount under the new round, with grants of up to £5,000 available.

Projects will need to show how they will prevent household waste, keep materials in use for longer and encourage lasting changes in behaviour.

Applicants will also be expected to demonstrate how their project will benefit local residents and create a legacy beyond the funding period.

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