A successful scheme that has prevented more than 128 tonnes of food from going to waste since April 2023 will continue for another year, thanks to funding from West Sussex County Council.
Delivered in partnership with Sussex-based food rescue charity UKHarvest, the Community Food Hubs collect surplus food from retailers and redistribute it to residents across West Sussex. For a suggested donation of £5, visitors to the food hubs can choose from a wide selection of items that would otherwise have been thrown away. The hubs are open to everyone, with no referral required. Visitors also receive practical advice on how to make the most of their food and reduce waste at home.
Wayne Lewis, Service Director for Environment and Public Protection, said:
“Thanks to the programme’s continued success, we are pleased to extend funding for a fourth consecutive year, taking it through to April 2027.
“Reducing the amount of waste we produce and process in West Sussex is a key priority in our Council Plan. Diverting food products from retailers to residents through the food hubs not only allows us to support this priority, but to provide much-needed support to those most in need.
“The Community Food Hubs also help residents by providing advice on buying, storing and cooking food more efficiently, cutting waste and saving money.”
In addition to providing food and waste reduction advice, the hubs also connect residents with local support services. Organisations such as Mind UK, Age UK and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service regularly attend, offering guidance and assistance.
James Swann, UKHarvest Head of Programmes and Innovation, said:
“Our relationship with the team at West Sussex Recycling and Waste Team encompasses so much of UKHarvest's charity mission.
“We are delighted to continue our Community Food Hub partnership for another year, strengthening the impact across our communities, delivering positive impact that comes from the reach across West Sussex and the engagement through the supportive team of agencies that attend each event.
“Showcasing our NOURISHed free food education programme through taster sessions, enhances the important work being done by both West Sussex Recycles and UKHarvest. We're excited about the year ahead!”
Community Food Hub locations
- Shoreham – Shoreham Fire Station
- Bognor Regis – Bognor Youth and Community Centre
- Petworth – Sylvia Beaufoy Centre
- Crawley (Broadfield) – Broadfield Community Centre
- Storrington – Chanctonbury Leisure Centre
- Haywards Heath – Ascension Church
- Worthing – Charmandean Centre
For hub opening dates and more information, visit:
www.westsussex.gov.uk/UKHarvest
For tips on reducing food waste, visit:
www.westsussex.gov.uk/FightAgainstFoodWaste
For more information on UKHarvest, visit:
www.ukharvest.org.uk
