Back in 2022, a pilot project was launched to help support West Sussex communities through the redistribution of rescued surplus food. UKHarvest are proud and excited to announce that the West Sussex County Council Recycles Community Food Hub project has now been confirmed for a third year, running through to April 2026.  

Thanks to the extended funding from WSCC, UKHarvest will continue to operate and expand the seven West Sussex Community Food Hubs across West Sussex, in addition to the existing nine that are located around Chichester. There will be the additional offer of wider community support availability at the hubs. Organisations such as CAB, Early Help Support, utility providers and housing associations. There is a suggested £5 donation for the collection of a bag of rescued food. 

Nigel Boshein, UKHarvest Community Food Hubs Manager, said: “The seven West Sussex County Council-funded food hubs allow us to provide food for an additional 1,136 people each month. This invaluable service ensures that healthy and nutritious food reaches those who need it most across the county.  

"We are always looking to expand our Community Food Hubs programme, and with continued support from West Sussex County Council, we hope even more people will benefit from accessing rescued surplus food for a small voluntary donation.” 

Since April 2023, this scheme has redistributed 94 tonnes of rescued food from UKHarvest, through the successful food rescue operation from food growers, producers and distributors. That’s nearly 200,000 meals worth of food. 

Deborah Urquhart, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, said: “Food waste makes up a staggering 40% of the average household’s general waste bin in West Sussex.  

“An important element of Our Council Plan is reducing the amount of waste we process. Tackling food waste and helping people minimise the amount of food they throw away is crucial.  

“Food waste also has a significant environmental impact—when you throw food away, you’re also wasting the resources that went into producing it. By rescuing surplus food, these hubs support both the environment and our communities.  

“At a time when many people are facing cost-of-living pressures, we’re proud to support this valuable service, helping residents access good-quality food that would otherwise go to waste.” 

To find out everything you need to know about all UKHarvest’s Community Food Hubs, please visit https://www.ukharvest.org.uk/education/community-food-hub and follow our socials to see updates @ukharvest.