As we return to the tiered lockdown system in England, and volunteers wish to continue to litter pick, we want this to be done safely within the parameters of your local lockdown restrictions.
We are aware that litter picking can be great for your mental health as well as the local environment. However, we want to ensure this to be done safely within the parameters of the latest government guidance from 2nd December. Litter picking can be carried out alone or with a small group of up to 6 people total in all tiers in certain locations, based on the current government ‘tiered system’ guidance for meeting with people outside of your household.
Please note: this guidance is purely for litter-picking in England from our friends at Keep Britain Tidy. Should you wish to carry out volunteer litter picking in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland – please contact Keep Scotland Beautiful, Keep Wales Tidy or Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful for futher regionally information and updates.
Litterpicking in England can be carried out alone or in pairs based on the current government guidance for meeting with people outside of your household.
Before going out alone or in pairs, please remember:
Individuals currently shielding, in ‘at risk’ groups, displaying symptoms (or in contact with those with symptoms) or have been directly advised to self-isolate should not litter-pick.If you have litterpicking equipment and wish to give it to other people for litter-picking, please follow these points:- Please use litter-pickers, gloves and hi-vis vests at all times. The gloves must be your own and not borrowed from someone else.
- We recommend volunteers keep hold of this kit, rather than return it after each use so that only they use it.
- Should you need to purchase your own litter picking kit, please view our safer litter collection range
- For Distribution – please leave litter-pickers or tidy up kit outside your property with a bottle of household anti-bacterial spray. We suggest giving out a small number so that you can keep track of them.Please spray the handle of the litter-picker when you collect it and again if returned.
- Please share the Guidance for volunteers working alone or in pairs (below) with other volunteers.
Guidance for volunteers working alone or in pairs
- Tell someone where you are going and stay in mobile contact.Use your own gloves and a litter-picker. Clean both after use before storing.
- Wash hands before and after at home or nearby w/c facilities.
- Carry hand sanitiser.
- Stay at least one metre from fellow volunteer and members of the public.
- Unless you have made an arrangement with your local council to collect your full rubbish bags, don’t pick any more than you can put in your own bin at home.
- Don’t pick up sharps/syringes.
- Litter should be tied up in strong waste sacks.
Should you need any further information, download our latest litterpicking guide or speak to our friendly team on 01531 635678 – we’re here to lend a Helping Hand.
