Success for none for profit community scrap store in Eastbourne

Tuesday, 16 December 2025 05:00

Eastbourne Community Scrap Store says it has prevented around ten tonnes of waste from ending up in landfill during its first year of operation.

The non-profit organisation collects unwanted and surplus materials that would otherwise be thrown away and makes them available to the local community. These include items such as fabric, paper, plastics and craft supplies, which can be reused in a wide range of creative projects.

As well as offering materials for people to take home, the Scrap Store runs regular crafting sessions and workshops. These sessions are open to all ages and abilities, providing a welcoming space for people to learn new skills, share ideas and explore their creativity in a relaxed environment.

Organisers say the project is about more than reducing waste. A key aim is to help rebuild a sense of community, particularly for people who may feel isolated or disconnected. By bringing people together around shared creative activities, the Scrap Store hopes to give residents the chance to meet new people, make friends and feel part of something positive.

The initiative has been supported by local volunteers, and artists who help run sessions and sort donated materials. The Scrap Store also works with local businesses to rescue usable items that would otherwise be disposed of.

Eastbourne Community Scrap Store says its first year has shown how small local projects can make a real difference, both environmentally and socially. Organisers hope to build on the success so far, continuing to cut waste while offering a supportive, inclusive space for the community to come together.

Janet Potter, one of the founders of the community project, caught up with V2 Radio's News Editor Philip Keeler to explain how it began and what its future holds.

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