The Little Scrapstore relaunches after community support

A scrapstore nestled in the heart of Frome has relaunched following a community effort to reorganise the space.

The Little Scrapstore, run by The Pod Charity, had been closed for two months. During that time, an army of volunteers and Frome Town Rotary helped transform the space, giving materials a second lease of life. Many items were generously donated by Sydenhams.

Mayor Cllr Anita Collier attended the reopening on 24th February to see the revitalised space beneath Frome Museum on Justice Lane.

The Pod Charity manager, Sue Paxton, said, “The result is a calmer, more organised space that is not only more appealing and accessible for customers but also better suited to support the adults with additional needs who are working and learning within the Scrapstore.

“The Little Scrapstore is now a true cave of wonders for creatives, educators, parents and anyone passionate about giving materials a second life.”

The Little Scrapstore began in 2021 with pop-up events held several times a year. The initiative provides adults with additional needs valuable work experience through sourcing, sorting and selling recycled and surplus materials donated by local companies and individuals.

The permanent Scrapstore officially opened on Justice Lane in 2023, quickly building a loyal and enthusiastic community following.

Chair of Trustees for The Pod Charity, Moira, said, “Our wonderful team has spent the last seven weeks knee-deep in donations – sorting, clearing and completely rethinking the space. Seeing the transformation has been incredibly rewarding; it would not have been possible without our amazing army of volunteers and supporters. Walking into the Scrapstore now feels like a fresh start. It is calmer, lighter and, most importantly, more accessible. We do not underestimate the challenge of keeping it this tidy – now the real challenge begins.”

The Scrapstore is currently open on Tuesday afternoons from 2pm to 4pm and on Independent Market Sundays from 10am to 3pm.

Sue added, “If you have some spare time and would like to get involved, we would love to hear from you. With additional volunteers and supporters, it is hoped we will be able to increase opening hours in the near future.”

Now in its 13th year, The Pod Charity is working to secure its own dedicated premises. The vision is to create a permanent base for its projects, expand the Little Scrapstore and bring other creatives together under one roof, forming a vibrant community hub for Frome.

The future space would not only support adults seeking work experience and social connection but also provide a welcoming, inclusive environment for community groups, charities and individuals.

For more details or to get involved, contact info@thepodcharity.org.uk or call 07709 231536.