“We’re proud to have around 1,800 people signed up as Street Champions already, from individuals and families to entire workplaces who are helping to make our Borough a cleaner, greener and better place to live.” Councillor Paul Davis Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Civic Pride.
Champions of change – making every pick count
Telford and Wrekin Street Champions are volunteers who take pride in their neighbourhoods and want to help make them cleaner, safer and more welcoming. Whether it’s litter picking, reporting issues, or supporting community projects, they decide how they want to contribute with the support of the Council. This year, the Great British Spring Clean saw 32 events take place across Telford and Wrekin, with 400 volunteers collecting more than 300 bags of litter. From pruning hedges to raising awareness about environmental issues, Street Champions are a vital part of the Borough’s efforts to keep streets connected – it doesn’t matter how old, everyone is encouraged to get involved. Workplace Street Champions Businesses backing cleaner communities Across Telford and Wrekin, businesses are stepping up to support the environment by encouraging their staff to become Workplace Street Champions. This volunteer scheme enables employees to register and receive free equipment from the Council to carry out litter picks around their workplace during working hours. It’s a simple way to make a visible difference while fostering team spirit and community pride. The first business to sign up was
Cofresco, based at Hortonwood, whose staff have found the experience both rewarding and impactful. Libby Coe, sustainability manager at Cofresco said: “When our company signed up to the new scheme, I wasn’t sure what to expect but it’s been brilliant. We’ve done litter picks around Hortonwood and it’s amazing how something so simple can make such a big difference. It’s not just about cleaning up, it’s about connecting with colleagues, getting fresh air and feeling proud of where we work. If you care about your community and want to boost team spirit, I’d recommend signing up.”
Litter-picking hero for our furry friends
Amelia is a Junior Street Champion, she said: “I always like litter picking because it helps all the small animals that live in our environment, animals such as hedgehogs, rabbits, squirrels and others. I always felt bad for the animals, so I started litter picking and I knew from day one this is basically my job. When my mum, dad and I go litter picking, we once collected 225 cans and bottles. If you would like to help all the small animals, today’s the day you can start. Help us and clean up all the rubbish around us.” Why volunteer? Sense of purpose Helping others and improving your community is great for Volunteering can reduce stress, help with depression, and boost happiness. Physical health Activities like litter picking get you moving and outdoors and are great for your self-esteem. Mental wellbeing
Becoming a Street Champion as a resident or business is easy. All that’s required is an online form and the Council will get you signed up and deliver your equipment. Sign up today at www.telford.gov.uk/StreetChampions
your health. Connection
Meet new people, build friendships and feel more connected to your local area.
TOTALLY TELFORD
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