Managing Your Tidy Up

All volunteers will need to be informed and instructed prior to the tidy up. Depending on the nature, size and type of event, this may include:

• Health and safety risks (these will be determined by the risk assessment carried out and the risks identified)
• Precautions to avoid these risks and how to protect against them
• How to use the equipment provided
• The agreed area or route and event procedures
• Where and what time to meet and finishing time
• Advise volunteers in advance to dress for the occasion. Strong, comfortable boots or shoes will be needed; perhaps also warm, waterproof clothing and headgear. Gloves are essential if litter picking by hand. Fluorescent arm bands or clothing should be worn if working in poor light or anywhere near traffic
• Location of toilet facilities and refreshments (depending on the length of your event)
• First aid arrangements
• The location of the nearest public telephone or access to a mobile phone

The cleansing or environmental health department of your local council should be able to offer support by providing litter picking gadgets, refuse sacks, gloves and they may provide a skip at your event. If making your own arrangements to get the litter you've collected off site, take their advice on where to legally dispose of the waste.

Target local companies who may be able to support your clean up by providing materials, services or a donation. For example, fast food restaurants may be able to supply refreshments and supermarkets might donate bin bags.

Be Kind to Nature

If you are working in the country, parks, woodland or open spaces take care not to disturb any wildlife, damage plants or harm habitats. Keep gates closed and don't clean up natural; such as logs, stones and weeds. They may look untidy but they are home to various wildlife.

Before you clean up these types of areas get some advice from an expert. Your local council may be able to give you a contact name, or try your local branch of the Wildlife Trusts on 01636 677 711 or visit www.wildlifetrusts.org.

Make sure that your activities don't interfere with people in the vicinity who are not involved in the tidy up. In particular, tell volunteers not to go on other people's property.