SEK News
Defra Grant to Redistribute 50 Tonnes of Farm Surplus
Social Enterprise Kent is thrilled to announce we’ve secured funding through defra’s Tackling Food Surplus at the Farm Gate initiative! This funding allows us to support and expand existing gleaning and food redistribution efforts, helping ensure fresh, nutritious produce reaches households in need, not landfill.
Over the coming months, we’ll work with local farmers, volunteers, and charities to harvest surplus crops from Kent farms and deliver them to SE Kitchen social supermarkets and community partners.
“This funding is a lifeline,” said Rebecca Smith, CEO of SEK. “It means we can get good food off farms and into homes, not landfill. In a time when families are being forced to make impossible choices, we’re proud to stand alongside our community and provide practical, dignified support.”
If you’re a farmer, food surplus organisation, or someone keen to volunteer, we’d love to hear from you. Whether it’s donating crops, helping with harvests, or supporting deliveries, your contribution can make a real difference.
Sector News: Help Shape the UK’s First Men’s Health Strategy
The Department of Health and Social Care has launched a 12-week call for evidence to shape England’s first-ever Men’s Health Strategy, and your voice matters.
Open until 17 July 2025, the consultation invites views from individuals, health professionals, academics, employers, and VCSE organisations. The goal: better understand men’s health challenges and drive better outcomes nationwide.
Community Connector at SE Kitchen Ashford
We’re excited to welcome a new Community Connector to SE Kitchen Ashford! Available one day a week, they’ll offer friendly 1:1 support to individuals over an 8-week programme.
Participants will build personalised action plans to boost confidence, enhance CVs, and prepare for interviews right from their local community hub.
Eligibility:
- Be aged 18+
- Live in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet
- Be ready to take steps towards work, training or volunteering
You’re Invited – 3rd September
You’re Invited: Canterbury District Networking Morning – 3rd September 10 -12:00
Join us for a morning of connections and exciting updates at our next Networking Event in Canterbury! This special session will include the launch of the Canterbury Community Lottery, a fantastic new initiative supporting local causes across the district.
We’ll also be sharing plans for the Sodexo Training Suite and want your input on what future training should look like – come have your say!
☕ Plus, enjoy great networking opportunities with local professionals and VCSE leaders over coffee and conversation.
📍 Canterbury | 3rd September | 10 – 12
SEK Schools: Kent Education Awards
We need your help to spread the word far and wide!
The Kent Education Awards 2026 (formerly Kent Teacher of the Year) are now open, and we’re calling on you to help us celebrate the heroes in our schools across Kent and Medway.
Who we’re celebrating:
Teachers, support staff, early careers educators, volunteers – everyone making a difference.
SEK Training: Tea Break Training Returns
Our popular Tea Break Training sessions are back! These bite-sized learning opportunities are perfect for anyone looking to develop new skills or refresh their knowledge, all over a cuppa and only £29 per person.
Ashford Social Supermarket Video Goes Viral
Our SE Kitchen team’s recent video showcasing the real-life impact of our Ashford social supermarket has struck a chord! Shared on the Love Ashford Facebook page, the uplifting reel has surpassed 70,000 views and continues to inspire.
Community Wellbeing Fund Is Back!
Grassroots groups in Thanet, Dover, or Folkestone, this is for you!
The Community Wellbeing Fund offers up to £5,000 for activities that promote wellbeing and reduce social isolation among:
- Adults aged 55+
- People with complex needs
This is your chance to bring your ideas to life and support those who need it most in your community.
Apply now and make a real impact
What’s On: KCC Adult Social Care Prevention Framework
Kent County Council is inviting feedback on its draft Adult Social Care Prevention Framework, aimed at helping people live healthy, independent lives for longer.
Closes: Monday, 14 July 2025
Cancer Smart Project Update
Our Community Engagement Team has been busy delivering vital health awareness across Kent and Medway through our partnership with the Kent & Medway Cancer Alliance.
- Reached over 2,227 people so far
- Hosted 80+ events/stands
- Marked Men’s Health Week, Cervical and Bowel Awareness campaigns
- Promoted sun safety via the #BeSkinSmart campaign
Want to help us spread the message even further? Get in touch with our team to support local health awareness efforts.
prevention.projects@sekgroup.org.uk
FREE SEK Energy Advice Programme
We’re extending our Energy Advice Programme through to March 2026, offering free, practical support to households at risk of or experiencing fuel poverty.
- Money-saving tips
- Tariffs, bills and meters
- Energy efficiency & grants
- Fuel debt & scam awareness
- Carbon monoxide safety
Home visits include free ‘warm packs’ with energy-saving items.
digitalsupport@sekgroup.org.uk
SEK Turns 40 This August!
We’re proud to be celebrating 40 years of creating social impact across Kent and beyond.
Join us this August as we mark four decades of empowering people, supporting communities, and driving positive change.
Keep an eye on our socials and website for stories, milestones, and ways to celebrate with us!