Needles, syringes and other drug related items are being increasingly discarded in the environment. There are a number of potential hazards associated with handling these items and if discovered you should contact us to have them safely removed and disposed of.  The Council has a duty to remove syringes which are found on public land and highways, but not for those which are found on private land.  It can, however, offer advice to the owner of the land or put pressure on him/them to deal with the matter if any risk is posed to the public at large.

In all circumstances, where needles are seen or found we recommend that it is reported to us.  We strongly also recommend that the public do not pick up needles themselves, unless they pose an immediate danger to them or other residents and in  which case great care should be taken in their removal and storage.  Ideally, you should contact us and we will safely dispose of them.

Please note that any needles, or syringes, etc. found on educational premises (e.g. schools, nurseries, etc) during working hours should be reported immediately and directly to the premises directly where staff on site are trained to deal with such items.

Please contact the Rapid Response line Monday to Friday (8.00am - 4.00pm) or the Council's out of hours, the emergency 24 hour telephone 01803 550405 or online.