More than mending: CAG Somerset at Fixfest 2025 

Earlier this month, CAG Somerset joined hundreds of repair activists, educators, policymakers, and innovators from across the world at Fixfest 2025, held in London. This global gathering brought together people passionate about repair — not only as a practical act, but as a catalyst for stronger communities, sustainability, and resilience. 

The event opened with a provocative keynote that ended with the warning ‘“Hope is our greatest weakness’.  On the following day, CAG Somerset delivered a workshop designed to offer a different perspective — showing how hope, grounded in practical action, can become our greatest strength. 

More than just fixing things 

At the heart of our workshop was the belief that repair cafés are about far more than fixing broken toasters or sewing torn jackets. They are community spaces that: 

• Strengthen local resilience 

• Encourage meaningful social interaction 

• Nurture skills and knowledge 

• Provide intergenerational connection and mutual support 

In an era of growing environmental concern and social isolation, volunteer-run repair cafés offer something unique: a welcoming, hands-on solution that empowers people to take action together. 

Exploring the social value of repair 

Our session invited attendees to explore the wider impacts of community repair. Through real-life examples and interactive discussions, we looked at how repair cafés create belonging, build confidence, and spark wider engagement in sustainability.  

Participants shared stories of how these spaces not only keep items in use for longer but also help people feel more connected — to their neighbours, their environment, and their own ability to make a difference. 

A weekend of inspiration 

Across the weekend, Fixfest 2025 hosted conversations on everything from the UK’s evolving Right to Repair movement, to digital tools for tracking impact and the role of repair in tackling social challenges. It was inspiring to be in the company of so many enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and committed people, all united by the belief that repair matters. 

We left London with renewed energy and a clear sense of direction. Contrary to the event’s keynote, our experience reinforced the feeling that hope, when combined with community action, is one of our greatest strengths.