Plymouth Community Homes (PCH) Communities and Partnerships Team is working with Clean Our Patch (COP) Plymouth to help improve our urban and rural communities through weekly litter-picking sessions.
COP is a Plymouth based community organisation founded by two local volunteers, El and Ash. Since its launch in 2018, the project has grown, developing a network of dedicated local ambassadors across the city.
The group's efforts have also attracted national attention. Recently, TV presenter and journalist Stacey Dooley joined volunteers at Masefield Gardens in Honicknowle as part of filming for her upcoming BBC documentary series, Stacey Dooley Cleans Up. During the event, volunteers collected an impressive 218 bags of litter and cleared several long-neglected fly-tipping hotspots.
Regardless of celebrity status, everyone is welcome to get involved. All you need is a pair of gloves and a positive, can-do attitude.
One volunteer is PCH resident Martin, who has been recognised as this month's Litter Picking Hero for his dedication. A committed volunteer and now a COP Efford Ambassador, Martin regularly gives his time to support COP activities.
El, Co-Founder of Clean Our Patch, said:
"Marti is truly exceptional at what they do and a real inspiration to others. Their impact goes far beyond litter picking.They have built a strong sense of community through their dedication and enthusiasm, inspiring others to do the same."
We spoke to Martin to find out more about his experience.
When did you start litter picking?
I started with COP three years ago. I saw Ash litter picking by himself at High View School, so I thought I would say hello and see what he was up to. Later, my nephew asked if he could start litter picking, and I remembered COP, so we joined. Now I am an Ambassador for COP Efford and run an under-10s litter-picking group every Thursday during the school holidays.
What does community work mean to you?
I love community work because the impact is huge. I really enjoy connecting people with the agencies and support they need. I also sit on the Efford Community Network and am involved in Our Efford Day on 15 August, which PCH is supporting.
What has been your proudest moment?
Meeting Stacey Dooley. Also, my nephew Alfie was recently nominated for a YMCA Youth Award for his contribution to community work and litter picking, and he was shortlisted as one of the top three finalists.
Is there anything you’d like people to know about Clean Our Patch?
We welcome everyone. COP is an inclusive group, and we can make adjustments where needed. Our youngest member started at the age of two and was still able to use a litter picker!
What advice would you give to someone thinking about volunteering?
100% go for it! Even if you only try something for 10 minutes to see whether you like it. Volunteering is a great way to make friends, and I promise it never feels like work.
If Martin's story has inspired you to get involved, the Clean Our Patch team organises litter picks across Plymouth on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at a variety of times and locations, providing plenty of opportunities to take part.
You can contact the team for more information here.
