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North Somerset Council, in partnership with national charity Garden Organic, is inviting local people with an interest in composting, gardening or sustainability to train as a ‘Master Composter’ and share their knowledge within their communities.
Since the programme launched four years ago, volunteers have spoken with more than 3,000 residents, inspiring households across North Somerset to give home composting a go and helping people build confidence in reducing their waste.
The role is flexible and open to everyone - whether volunteers enjoy chatting with the public at community events, delivering talks or workshops, or simply spreading the word among neighbours and friends. Many highlight the joy of those shared “aha!” moments: helping someone finally crack a composting challenge or peering at the hidden life beneath the microscope. Others talk about the camaraderie that comes from volunteering alongside people who share their passion for the environment.
Master Composters Project Coordinator, Kate Eastment, said: “I just love working with such an interesting and varied group of people. Volunteers come from all walks of life and range from their twenties to retirement age. Some are motivated by a love of gardening, others by a passion for soil health and biodiversity, while many simply want to live more sustainably. Some are experienced composters and others are just getting started.
“Garden Organic provides all the training and resources they need, and I stay in regular contact, so everyone feels well supported.”
Cllr Annemieke Waite, Cabinet Member for Planning and Environment at North Somerset Council said: “Our Master Composters play a vital role in helping residents reduce waste, save money and care for the natural environment. This programme is a fantastic example of community action making a real difference. I would encourage anyone with even a spark of interest in composting to get involved - you’ll learn new skills, meet like‑minded people and help build a more sustainable North Somerset.”
Applications are now open for the next volunteer training day, taking place at Yeo Valley Organic Gardens on Saturday 14 March. The deadline to apply is 28 February.
Anyone interested in supporting their community, learning new skills, and helping reduce waste across North Somerset is encouraged to apply at www.gardenorganic.org.uk/nsmc
For further information, contact Kate Eastment on: keastment@gardenorganic.org.uk or 07725 990708.