Volunteering to help keep our communities tidy and litter free

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, hundreds of volunteers in Bridgend County Borough have been helping to keep their communities tidy and litter free.

And now, Keep Wales Tidy is encouraging people to keep up the good work, providing a range of equipment and support to volunteers, including health and safety guidance.

Litter picking gadgets, hi-vis vests, bin bags and hoops can all be borrowed from litter picking hubs across the county borough where volunteers are also able to record exactly where and when a litter pick took place and how many bags of rubbish were collected online, helping to give an overall picture of the work going on.

There are currently litter picking hubs in Porthcawl, Pencoed, Pyle and Caerau with five more in the process of being set up.

Those who want to take part but can’t access a litter hub can register as a litter champion with Keep Wales Tidy and receive the same level of support. Alternatively, any groups can request advice and support from Keep Wales Tidy for one-off litter picks.

As well as being able to collect kit, residents can also join community groups or become a litter champion and benefit from Keep Wales Tidy’s support, health and safety, and insurance policies. For more information on becoming a litter champion, contact Brian Jones on 07824 504819.

Lesley Jones, Chief Executive at Keep Wales Tidy, said: “Every one of us has a part to play. Not only is litter a blight on our local environment, but it has a significant impact on our health, wellbeing, and wildlife too.

“Pick as you pass by making use of the free clean-up equipment at your local hub. It is essential that our communities, green spaces and beaches are kept clean and safe for everyone to enjoy. Together we can all make a difference.

I would like to thank all the residents who have gone out of their way to keep Bridgend County Borough clean and tidy during the pandemic, they have made a real difference for us all.

We look forward to even more litter picking hubs opening in the near future and encourage all volunteers to sign up with Keep Wales Tidy in order to access the necessary kit as well as the relevant insurance, and health and safety policies.

Deputy Leader Hywel Williams

To register with Keep Wales Tidy or to find out more details on litter picking hubs in your area visit the Keep Wales Tidy website.