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Community litter picking

Community litter picking

How to organise a litter pick event.

Plan your litter pick

Follow these steps to get started:

1. choose an area. If this is public land maintained by Northumberland County Council, complete the litter picking booking form (PDF)
Email: highwaysandneighbourhoodservices@northumberland.gov.uk 
If it's privately owned land, get permission from the landowner

2. decide when you want to do it

3. tell your friends, family and neighbours you need their help

4. we can provide litter pick packs for up to 20 people, these include:

  • litter pickers
  • rubbish sacks
  • high-visibility waistcoats
  • gloves

5. complete a risk assessment (example risk assessment PDF) to consider any health and safety issues (PDF) and take necessary precautions consider:

  • a first aider
  • supply of antibacterial wipes and/or hand gel
  • plasters and antiseptic for any cuts or grazes

6. prepare yourself and your helpers for the day:

  • decide where you will meet and at what time
  • think about how to split the group up to cover the area
  • decide how long you will litter pick and when you will take breaks
  • think about refreshments and what toilet facilities are available

7. go through an activity planning checklist to make sure you haven't forgotten anything

On the day

Brief the group to check everyone:

  • has read the health and safety checklist
  • knows who the first aider is and what to do if an injury occurs
  • knows how to use the equipment
  • what to avoid
  • where the meeting points are
  • breaks and finishing times
  • where to place the collected rubbish

After the event

Check that the litter has been collected as scheduled. If it has not been picked up:

Email: highwaysandneighbourhoodservices@northumberland.gov.uk