Local clean-ups and how to get involved

Community litter picks

A community clean up is a great way to show that your group cares about your local environment.

It also helps to encourage people not to drop litter and to take pride in where they live.

Organising a litter pick

Before you organise any activity we strongly suggest you read our:

• safety guidance notes

This includes safe working practices, how to get people involved and how to maximise publicity for your event. 

Then plan ahead. You may need to:

• find out who owns the land
• decide what you want to achieve
• email us to let us know what you are planning or if you need any advice
• take out insurance (this is strongly advised)
• advertise for volunteers to take part
• carry out a risk assessment

Support we offer

We can loan you tools and equipment for your litter pick. To request items including strong black bags, litter pickers and reflective arm bands:

• email us at lovewhereyoulive@newcastle.gov.uk 

We also want to celebrate the great work that you are doing to look after your neighbourhoods.

If you tell us about your event, even if have not been involved, we will look to share your good work via our social media channels.

Make sure to tag us into your posts on:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• TikTok
• X

On the day of your litter pick

On the day of your event:

• check the safety of the area before you start (see our safety tips)
• think health and safety - explain the do’s and don’ts to those taking part   
• make sure under 18s are accompanied by an adult
• use the right tools for the task
• take photos and share these with us
• celebrate your achievements
• remember to report how many bags you have collected to the ward teams for pick up using our online form.

Find some handy 'do's and don'ts'  when organising a community clean-up here.

Volunteer

Lots of people take on a community role in their spare time and by doing this they help improve Newcastle for everyone.

Newcastle is a city where there is a strong tradition of volunteering and community activism.

Volunteering and community activism makes a massive contribution to communities, individuals and the life of the city as a whole.

Please contact your local communities officer who can provide you with more information.

You could also contact the Volunteer Centre Newcastle - a free, quality service to anyone interested in volunteering and to any organisation - no matter how big or small. To do so:

• call 07419988821
• email Volunteer Centre Newcastle