How long does it take to fill an 8ft skip?

Less than two hours it would seem, as our Central East Team found out when they held a community clean-up day in Richmond Avenue, Accrington.

There was plenty of heavy lifting as the team helped tenants carry out large bulky items they no longer wanted such as sofas, tumble driers and bikes to the tip.

Members of Glendales, the ground maintenance service also helped out, cutting the grass and cutting back brambles. 

We were also supported by Karen Fletcher from Bell Group, our painting and decorating contractor.

Helen Johnson, Area Housing Assistant for Central East Team, said: “The aim of the day was to clear up the area and make it more attractive for the tenants and local residents.

“We had Glendales cutting the grass and we have been potting new plants, in the street's raised beds.

“We also had a giant 8ft skip for tenants to throw away their bulky items.

“We started at 10am and in almost two hours we have already filled it. So it was great to see the tenants joining in and making good use of the day.”

Community clean-up days are based on tenant feedback, as part of our You said, We did work, and provide an opportunity to help make their areas better places to live. The events also offer colleagues and tenants a chance to meet and feel a part of the community.

Anybody can volunteer at these events, from tenants, community members and community workers to our own colleagues.

Tenants are sent leaflets through the door, encouraging them to bring out any rubbish they have that perhaps they cannot get to a skip or the tip themselves to dispose of. They are also invited to join us for lunch and chat with us about any issues they may have. Involved tenants are also welcome to help out.

To get involved in our future community clean-up days or to let us know if you would like us to clean up your area, please call us on 0333 320 4555 or email enquiries@progressgroup.org.uk.