The Big Fix campaign will run through May and encourages residents to make use of their local repair cafés.
First launched in Devon in 2019, it brings together volunteers, communities and repair cafés across the county who will highlight simple fixes to common household items.
Councillor Deborah Urquhart, West Sussex county council cabinet member for environment and climate change, said: “Reducing waste, encouraging reuse and increasing recycling are all important elements of Our Council Plan.
“The Big Fix not only helps people reduce waste but also empowers communities to share knowledge and develop practical skills in the future.”
Repair cafés are free, volunteer-run events where people can bring broken items to be repaired and learn practical skills.
They provide education and services for a variety of household items, from clothing and furniture to kettles, lamps and more.
The council is supporting the campaign by highlighting the dates, times and locations of established repair cafés.
It will also host an online forum for repair cafés and residents to connect and share tips for fixing everyday items.
Councillor Urquhart added: “Repair cafés are run by dedicated volunteers who give their time and expertise to help others.
“They’re a brilliant example of what can be achieved when communities come together to make a difference.”
The Big Fix campaign
The campaign was first launched by Recycle Devon in 2019 in response to what they described as a growing “throwaway culture”.
In 2020, the campaign expanded and saw over 2,500 items repaired across the UK in a single day.
In May 2024, the campaign saw 3,177 items fixed throughout the month – 132 of those in West Sussex, across four repair cafés.
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