Great British Spring Clean 2021

The Great British Spring Clean is organised by Keep Britain Tidy, a charity which encourages cities across the country to eliminate litter, end waste and improve their local beaches, parks, and streets.

It takes place across two weeks, from Friday 28 May to Sunday 13 June.

Following the current Government guidelines, Sunderland City Council has been supporting individuals, schools, local groups, and businesses to take part in organised litter picks. Necessary equipment is provided to help residents keep our communities clean, green, and litter-free.

More than 40 litter picks will be taking place around parks, footpaths, green spaces, and beaches across all five areas of the city: Coalfield, East, North, West, and Washington.

The campaign is just one of many that the City Council's volunteering platform is involved with. Over the last year, hundreds of residents, including individuals and local groups, have signed up to work with the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS), and other key partners.

It has been more important than ever over the last year to get involved in volunteering in the community. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic residents have pulled together to look after the city, as well as the vulnerable residents who live here. This has been through VCS groups, and the introduction of Covid Champions, which has seen 377 residents sign up to help distribute important information in their communities.

Councillor Claire Rowntree, Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: "I am delighted that so many people have signed up to get involved in this year's Great British Spring Clean. Thanks to our Let's Talk campaigns we know that our residents want a clean and safe city to live in, and this is even more evident by the number of those volunteering to make a difference.

"Most of our residents take a real pride in their area and they hate to see the irresponsible few spoiling things for most people by littering, fly-tipping and generally spoiling the environment. The City Council has cracked down on offenders and will continue to take enforcement action against those caught littering and fly-tipping."

The City Council is committed to continuously helping all residents who volunteer, providing necessary information and support.

Councillor Linda Williams, the Portfolio Holder for Vibrant City, said: "The council really appreciates the many formal and informal groups and individuals who litter pick regularly within their area.  We are amazingly proud of them and truly grateful. This campaign will incorporate not only those volunteers but will also encourage even more residents to join the Great British Spring Clean.

"While there are social restrictions limiting numbers this year, Sunderland City Council will help anyone interested to set up their own litter pick, so that everyone can still play their part. Let's keep our communities tidy and share our pride in them."

For more information on the Great British Spring Clean and to find out more on volunteering in Sunderland at: www.sunderland.gov.uk/volunteering