Why do I need a group permission to access the foreshore? How much does a group permit cost?

All group litter clean up events on PLA land require prior consent for safety reasons. The group permit is free of charge and is obtained by creating an account on this website and adding your events.

How do I create a group litter clean up event?

Firstly, you can create an account via the website. To register your account, a copy of public liability insurance will be required. Once your account has been created, you will be able to create new litter clean-up events. Check out our Clean Ups Calendar to see the range of events already listed on our site!

How far in advance must an event be added to the site?

We request that all events are added to the site at least one week prior to the event commencing. This allows enough time for our team to review the safety documents submitted and approve the event.

How does one request a cage for their event?

In some locations, it may be possible for event organisers to request a cage from the PLA to dispose of litter after their clean up. Requesting a cage is quick and easy. Once you have registered and created a new event, simply select the number of cages you require under the “Number of PLA Cages Required” tab. Please note that, depending on availability, the number of cages allocated may be restricted for some events. For guidance on how to fill your cage, please visit our “PLA Cage Etiquette” page.

How far in advance does a cage need to be requested?

Please request a cage at least two weeks in advance of a litter clean-up event commencing. This gives our marine services team enough time to place the cage in the desired location.

What should I do once my event has been approved?

At least three days before your event, please check that the method statement you submitted is still correct.

Final checks include:

• Consider the recent weather and forecasted weather for the event day
• Check the tides are as expected
• Has there been any recent rainfall or flooding?

How does one coordinate with the PLA the removal of big items from the foreshore?

If you come across large items, such as trolleys or tyres, which you are unable to collect, you can contact us to help remove those items. Under the ‘post event’ section of your event, there is an option to fill out a comments box. In this box, please outline the type of item, number of items and approximate location. Our marine services team can then review this information and attempt to recover and remove the large item from the foreshore. Please use our “Contact Us” page if you require further assistance.

What if you don’t want your event to be listed on the calendar?

When creating an event, you can choose to post it as ‘Public’ or ‘Private.’ Public events show details of the clean-up event, including date, time, location and the event organisers contact details. This will also allow members of the public to use the contact details provided to join events. ‘Private’ events mean that no details of the event other than the date and location are available to members of the public.

How can I organise removal of the litter I have collected?

There are a variety of options for arranging a waste collection. It is possible at some locations to organise for a PLA cage to be placed on the foreshore, further information on this can be found on a PLA Cage Etiquette page. Otherwise, you can contact your local council, to arrange for them to collect your litter after your event.

Are children allowed on the Thames foreshore for a litter pick event?

The PLA advises that only children older than age 9, supervised by an adult, be allowed on the foreshore due to the hazards present.

Where can I get equipment for litter picks?

For a litter pick, you will need litter pickers, gloves, bags and high-vis vests. There are several ways to get a hold of litter pick equipment for your event. If you would like to borrow equipment, you can contact your local council who should be able to provide with some appropriate equipment. The PLA also have some equipment which may be borrowed, please get in touch here. If you are interested in purchasing your own equipment to be used in future events, our recommended supplier is the Helping Hand Company who do a range of different pickers and hoops.

Do I need public liability insurance?

Obtaining public liability insurance is very important and strongly recommended. This will provide cover for your legal liability arising from accidental damage or injury that may occur during the event, including damage or injury to a member of the public or their property. If you are an individual organising a tidy up, your current household insurance may cover you for public liability. You must check your policy to ensure you are covered. If not, you will need to take out separate public liability insurance. If you do not have or want to use your own private insurance, contact an organisation such as a local council as it is possible that they may already have insurance in place. It is important to check that the litter picking activity is covered under such insurance. If not, a suitable extension should be made to the policy. The PLA is unable to provide cover for public liability insurance.

What to do if my event is cancelled?

If you have to cancel your event, please update the status of your event within your account to “Cancelled” to inform our team. Please ensure you contact all participants separately to make them aware.

Have other questions?

Email us here and we’ll try to help.