As the formal funding for Green & Healthy Frome (GHF) draws to a close, the story of the project is far from over. What began as a funded initiative has taken root across our small market town – in people, places and everyday choices – and is now moving into a new chapter shaped by the community itself.
Over the past few years, Green & Healthy Frome has quietly supported a shift in how health, wellbeing and climate action are understood and lived in Frome, highlighting just how intrinsically linked one is to the other. From nature-based mental health support and greener homes to reuse, repair, supporting local food, to active travel and swapping out plastic period products for less toxic options, the project has shown what’s possible when people and organisations work together in new ways. Having counted 24,800 connections through the GHF projects as a whole, and with individual project successes like ‘Show Me Your Meds’ where the work saved the NHS £165,957 over a 7-month period and led to 5,350 fewer prescribed items which was a saving of 96,421kg CO2e.
Crucially, while the funded phase is coming to an end, many of the services, activities and forms of support developed through GHF will continue. The ideas, skills, knowledge and relationships built through the programme are now woven into local organisations, networks and community groups -supporting a healthier, greener and more connected Frome for the long term.
“This was never about a single project lasting forever,” says the GHF team. “It was about helping something real to grow – building confidence, collaboration and new ways of working that could carry on well beyond the funding. That’s what we’re seeing now.”
Throughout its funded phase, GHF has worked with residents of all ages, volunteers, healthcare partners, grassroots organisations and local businesses. Together, the project partners: Edventure, Frome Medical Practice and Frome Town Council – have explored the deep connection between a healthy planet and healthy people, creating practical responses rooted in lived experience – and shaped by the unique independent spirit of Frome itself.
As the project moves into this next phase, there is a strong emphasis on local ownership. Residents are encouraged to keep engaging with the services and activities that matter to them, connect with like-minded groups, and explore the growing range of resources available through the Green & Healthy Frome website and take advantage of the events that continue until the 31st March 2026.
This moment marks an exciting new era rather than a goodbye. What’s been grown together is already flourishing – in daily choices, shared spaces, and the many organisations continuing the work.
The quiet revolution has taken root. The next chapter belongs to all of us. Where will it take you next?
