Question 1

How do I join a group litter pick?

Accepted Answer

You can see our upcoming events. There’s no need to sign up in advance, just check out our event details and meet us at the start point. We look forward to seeing you!

Question 2

What should I wear for litter picking?

Accepted Answer

Wear clothes that you’re prepared to get dirty! Protect your feet with sturdy shoes (wellies work for some people). Use gardening gloves that are strong enough to protect against thorns. Some people like to cover their arms and legs when picking in vegetation, especially if brambles and nettles are present.

Question 3

Do I need to buy any equipment?

Accepted Answer

In a word, no. If you join a group event, all bags and pickers are provided. 
If you want to buy your own pickers check out (2023 prices): Poundland (£3), Amazon (around £7-13) and Helping Hands Environmental (£16). You might also like to use a hoop to keep your bag open, you can also find these on Amazon, Helping Hands Environmental etc. 
Aragon Direct Services have pickers, bags and children’s hi-vis jackets available on loan. Requests for equipment can be made via email to enquiries@aragondirect.co.uk.

Question 4

Can I join a local litter picking group?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Through our active Facebook group you can find links to litter picks run by local groups including: Bretton, Hampton, Dogsthorpe, PE4, Ortons and Woodston or you can get in touch and we will try to connect you with a group near you.

Question 5

Can I start my own neighbourhood litter picking group?

Accepted Answer

Please do! It’s really not difficult to set up your own group. Please get in touch we are happy to help with support, equipment and advice. Or join one of our group litter picks and we can talk you through what you need to do.

Question 6

I’ve collected litter, how do I get the bags collected?

Accepted Answer

Thank you for wombling! We leave bags on the roadside where Aragon’s vans can easily access them. Next to a council bin is the ideal location if possible. You can report bags for collection via https://www.fixmystreet.com/report/, selecting the option for ‘Street cleansing’ or directly to the council at https://report.peterborough.gov.uk/?filter_group=Street+cleansing

Question 7

I’m doing my Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, if I take part in a group litter pick will it count towards it?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Please discuss this with your Assessor first to make sure you have any paperwork you need to record your time. If you are under 18, please attend with a supervising adult and let us know at the start of the litter pick.

Question 8

Can children join your litter picks?

Accepted Answer

We love to see children get involved in looking after our environment. Children can join our group picks but they must be accompanied by a responsible adult to supervise them.

Question 9

When do you hold group litter picks?

Accepted Answer

Most group litter picks take place at the weekend and are run regularly throughout the year. See our upcoming events.

Question 10

Do you recycle what you collect?

Accepted Answer

Yes we do! We recycle whenever possible. At our group litter pick events we provide separate bags for general waste and one for uncontaminated recyclables - plastic bottles, cans and glass bottles.

Question 11

Can my company or organisation do a litter pick with Peterborough Litter Wombles?

Accepted Answer

Yes please! We offer corporate events during weekdays that are perfect for team-building and making a tangible difference in the community.  We will help with the organisation and planning as well as providing team leaders and equipment to help make your litter pick a fun and fulfilling event.

Question 12

I know an area that has lots of litter that needs clearing, can you help?

Accepted Answer

Please get in touch and we will investigate and try to help. Alternatively, you could also report this to ‘Street cleansing’, directly to the council via https://report.peterborough.gov.uk/?filter_group=Street+cleansing.

Question 13

Where do you litter pick?

Accepted Answer

We target all areas where we feel we can make a positive difference. In areas where the litter comes back too quickly after it has been cleared, we like to see some evidence of change e.g. councillors or residents getting more involved, enforcement cameras or new bins - before we will come back for a repeat litter pick.
We also work with active local groups in places like Bretton, Dogsthorpe, Hampton, the Ortons and Woodston, as well as both sides of the River Nene.

Question 14

Is Peterborough Litter Wombles Association a charity?

Accepted Answer

We are not registered as a charity, we are an association with a constitution and  a committee.

Frequently asked questions