Record year for Walsall volunteers as community litter effort reaches new highs
Thousands of volunteer hours, growing participation and national recognition mark a standout year for clean-up work
Walsall's volunteer litter pickers have delivered their most successful year on record, with residents giving their time to help keep neighbourhoods safe and clean.
During 2025, volunteers collected a total of 20,780 bags of litter across the borough, a significant increase compared to last year. This was supported by more than 10,800 volunteer hours, highlighting a continued rise in community involvement.
The Great British Spring Clean saw Walsall recording its largest-ever turnout. Over a two-week period, 540 volunteers took part, collecting 1,750 bags of litter in nearly 1,000 hours of activity.
Volunteer numbers continued to grow throughout the year, with more than 300 new people signing up to take part. Local businesses also played a growing role, with 12 organisations supporting clean-up activity and helping to remove hundreds of bags of waste from public spaces.
The scale and impact of the work has now been recognised nationally, with Walsall shortlisted for the Keep Britain Tidy Volunteer Engagement Award 2026.
Councillor Suky Samra, Portfolio Holder for Street Scene, said:
“Our volunteers continue to set the standard for what community action can achieve."
"These figures are a testament to their dedication, passion, and the pride they have in Walsall.
“Whether it’s individuals, school groups or businesses, our volunteer network is growing stronger every year, and the impact they’re making can be seen across every part of the borough. We are incredibly grateful for everything they do.
“We truly value all of our volunteers and will be holding a celebration event on January 15 to thank them for all the work they do to keep the place we call home clean.”