Highlights from the reuse and sharing round table

Connecting Communities Through Reuse: Highlights from the Reuse & Sharing Round Table

On Wednesday, 30th April, the vibrant RedBrick Building in Somerset played host to a room full of passionate changemakers for our Reuse and Sharing Round Table event. The day brought together a rich mix of experience, ideas, and community spirit focused on all things repair, reuse, and share.

Sharing Success Stories

Green Ilminster, with three members sharing their inspiring journey of running a successful Share and Repair Shop on the high street since 2019. They talked about the early days—how they got started, the system they use to log and track items, and how they recently expanded into another part of the building. Their honest, practical tips were invaluable for anyone thinking about setting up a reuse or sharing hub.

Glastonbury Reuse Shop also shared their journey—from being awarded a grant to overcoming the challenge of finding the right location. Their story served as a fantastic example of what’s possible when local passion meets funding opportunities.

Members of the Ilminster Share and Repair shop

A Morning of Exchange

Attendees included a broad range of local groups, such as:

• Glastonbury Repair Café
• Glastonbury Reuse Hub
• Shepton Mallet Repair Café
• Wells Repair Café
• Coleford Climate Action Group
• Castle Cary Repair Café
• Burnham Repair Café
• The Fixy Van Team

The event was a genuine knowledge exchange. People asked questions, shared insights, and swapped practical advice—from sourcing tools to engaging volunteers and promoting events. The sense of collaboration and mutual support was tangible, reinforcing that none of us are alone in this journey.

Looking Ahead: Funding Opportunity

Exciting news was shared: In July, Somerset Community Foundation, in partnership with SUEZ and Somerset Council, will open the next round of funding for innovative reuse and share projects across Somerset.

If you’re part of a group (or thinking of starting one) and are interested in setting up a repair café, reuse shop, or sharing hub, now is a great time to explore the possibilities.

Please get in touch: hello@cagsomerset.org.uk — we’d love to help you get started.