Email page to a friendNorfolk Master Composters
Norfolk Master Composters started in November 2006 and has proved very popular. The main aim of the programme is to raise awareness amongst the wider public of the benefits of composting, through a network of volunteer advisors. Since Nov 2006, 60 trained volunteers have spent over 1200 hours promoting home composting in the county.
The Norfolk programme operates as a partnership between Garden Organic, Norfolk County Council and Waste Resources Action Programme (WRAP).
Who are Master Composters?
Master Composters are volunteers who encourage people in their local community to start composting at home, and offer support to people who are already home composting and may be having difficulties or need encouragement.
There are Master Composters of every age group and they come from a wide variety of backgrounds. This contributes to the effectiveness of the scheme – Master Composters can reach parts of communities that other compost promoting activities cannot.
What do Master Composters do?
Master Composters promote composting in a variety of ways, the activities they choose being tailored to their individual skills. This could include giving a demonstration to a next–door neighbour or friend; giving a presentation at a local school; giving a talk to a local community group; writing articles for the local paper, parish magazine or newsletter; attending an event with a display or helping establish a community / village composting scheme.
What support do Master Composters receive?
Volunteers are supported by a dedicated Project Co-ordinator employed by Garden Organic and based at County Hall in Norwich. The co-ordinator organises further training and networking opportunities, provides advice and information to volunteers, provides display materials and co-ordinates volunteer attendance at larger events.
Volunteers are also entitled to membership of Garden Organic, which gives them access to information and expert advice on a wide range of technical composting and gardening queries. Volunteers are also supported by Waste Officers in all of the Norfolk local authorities.
How can I become a Master Composter?
Anyone over the age of 18 can become a Master Composter; you don’t need to be a composter already or have any volunteer or community group experience.
As a volunteer you will receive free training in home composting and related environmental issues provided by Garden Organic (formerly HDRA). The initial training is a two day foundation course and is held locally (the next course is on Fri 26 and Sat 27 September 2008 at Holt Field Studies Centre). All trainees get a Master Composter resource pack and a visit to a composting site as part of the course. Once the training has been completed, you will be expected to spend 30 hours over the following year promoting home composting as a volunteer (i.e. not as part of a paid position).
Becoming a Master Composter is a great way to meet new people, learn valuable skills, and benefit from being part of a team that makes a difference.
If you are interested in attending the next training course and becoming a Master Composter please contact the Project Co-ordinator on 01603 223328 or email david.hawkyard@norfolk.gov.uk
How can I contact my local Master Composter?
If you would like some advice from your local Master Composter or you would like somebody to speak to your group or attend your event please contact the Project Co-ordinator on 01603 223328 or email david.hawkyard@norfolk.gov.uk
