Adopt an Area

a tidy-up scheme in which volunteers select an area of Richmond Park and help to keep it free from litter

All areas have now been adopted, but if you’re interested in helping you can join as a ‘roaming picker’

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The Park is divided into 29 individual areas and volunteers select an area to adopt as their own.
Volunteers can collect litter as often as they choose. They can litter pick individually or in pairs. It should always be satisfying and fun, and never a chore.
The Friends of Richmond Park, in association with the Royal Parks, provide the necessary equipment – litter picking stick, thick gloves and Friends’ volunteer vest overprinted with “Working in partnership with the Royal Parks” (optional wear).

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?

You need to be aware of any potential problems you might encounter whilst out litter picking. These have been covered in a “Risk Assessment for Litter Picking” which all volunteers must read before being able to join Adopt an Area.
How do I dispose of the litter I’ve collected? Tie up and place the bag in one of the park litter bins. If the bins are all full, leave it beside the bin and it will be picked up by the litter crew. Do not leave litter bags next to bins after 1.00pm as they may not be picked up by the litter crew. If left out overnight they are likely to be ripped open by birds, foxes etc. which will undo all your good work.
Supplies of litter sacks are available from the Information Centre by Pembroke Lodge.

YOU’LL NEED THESE CONTACT DETAILS:

To report any issues to the Park Management, call the Holly Lodge office on 0300 061 2200 (8.00am to 4.30pm Mon-Fri). Outside these hours, email litter@frp.org.uk, or if necessary contact the Park Police.
If you need to call the Park Police, call 101 or in an emergency dial 999.
On rare occasions, should you come across any needles or ‘sharps’ do not attempt to handle them yourself. Call the Contract Manager at Turfsoil Ltd, on 07920 118703, or call the Holly Lodge office. State the location of the sharps and a member of the full-time litter crew will collect and dispose of them appropriately.
If you have any questions or need more information, please email litter@frp.org.uk

HOW DO I GET STARTED ON ADOPT AN AREA?

First, you’ll need to be a member of the Friends so that you are covered by our insurance. If you’re not yet a member you can join here

DOWNLOAD A MAP OF THE AREAS
Adopt an Area map – 0.7mb

After you’ve got started

We’ll keep in touch to see how you’re getting on and you’ll be able to share your experiences with the other volunteers via litter@frp.org.uk