Community litter picks
If you're a local resident, you can get involved in litter picks to help keep Lewisham clean and tidy. You can also get involved as a business or community group.
We can lend you litter pickers and high-vis wasitcoats. Let us know your date and number of litter pickers you will need.
Community litter pick hubs
You’ll soon be able to collect our community litter pick kits from a number of hubs across the borough. These are currently available at the Deptford Lounge.
Our kits include:
- 10-15 litter pickers, in both adult and child sizes
- waste bags
- 'Love Lewisham' hi-vis jackets
- instructions for use
You will need to:
- follow the instructions in the kit by coordinating your litter pick with our Street Environment team
- if you can, take plenty of photos and videos, and send these to lovelewisham@lewisham.gov.uk
To book a kit in advance, contact either libraries@lewisham.gov.uk or lovelewisham@lewisham.gov.uk, or you can check availability and collect in person from Deptford Lounge.
How to organise a litter pick
Choose a date and location
- identify an area that needs attention, such as a road, pathway or a corner
- check the location is safe and accessible for all participants
- pick a date and time that suits everybody
Tell us about it
- let us know about your event by emailing us to arrange support such as litter pickers, bags and waste collection
- let us know in advance where and when you plan to end your event and we will organise the collections of the clear bags for litter
Promote your event
- use social media, local newsletters, or posters to gather your volunteers
- share details such as the meeting point, start time, and how long you think it will take
Get the right gear
- ensure your volunteers have decent gloves and if possible hi-vis clothing
- consider having a first aid kit at the event just in case
Waste disposal
- smaller amounts of waste can be put in domestic bins, but we can arrange to collect bigger loads if you gather multiple bags
- do not move larger items or fly-tipping, report fly-tipping on the Lewisham Love Clean Streets website
Health and safety
Your safety and the safety of your volunteers is top priority. Follow our guidelines to ensure a safe event.
Prepare a risk assessment
- identify potential hazards, such as traffic, sharp objects, or uneven ground
- plan to minimise risks, such as avoiding dangerous areas or providing safety briefings
Supervise children
- children under 16 should be accompanied by a responsible adult
- ensure tasks are age-appropriate
Wear appropriate clothing
- volunteers should wear sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing
- hi-vis vests are recommended in busy areas
Handle waste safely
- please only use litter pickers to pick up any waste as using hands even when wearing gloves could be dangerous
- avoid picking up hazardous items like needles or chemicals – report these to us using the Cleaner Lewisham website or app
Stay hydrated and take breaks
- encourage volunteers to bring water and to rest when needed
- make sure everyone knows the meeting point for emergencies