Plea For Compost Champion

Residents invited to join North Somerset’s Master Composters programme

North Somerset residents with an interest in composting, gardening or sustainable living are being encouraged to volunteer for a popular programme helping households cut waste and improve soil health.

North Somerset Council, working in partnership with national charity Garden Organic, is recruiting new volunteers to train as Master Composters. The scheme supports residents across the district to reduce food and garden waste, save money and adopt more environmentally friendly habits.

Since launching four years ago, Master Composters have spoken with more than 3,000 residents, offering practical advice and inspiring more households to give home composting a try. Volunteers play a key role in building confidence, answering common questions and helping people overcome challenges — from balancing compost bins to understanding what can and can’t be composted.

The volunteer role is flexible and open to people of all ages and experience levels. Master Composters can get involved in a range of ways, including chatting with the public at community events, delivering talks or workshops, or sharing tips informally within their own neighbourhoods. Full training and resources are provided by Garden Organic, along with ongoing support from the project team.

Kate Eastment, Master Composters project coordinator, said the programme brings together people from all walks of life who share a passion for sustainability, soil health and biodiversity.

Cllr Annemieke Waite, cabinet member for planning and environment at North Somerset Council, said the scheme was a strong example of community action making a real difference, encouraging anyone with an interest in composting to take part.

The next volunteer training day will take place at Yeo Valley Organic Gardens on Saturday 14 March, with applications closing on 28 February. To apply or find out more, visit gardenorganic.org.uk/nsmc