Next up is Chalkwell Beach Team who are part of Southend BeachCare and are run by Care Group Leader Tina. The team’s dedication to our beach areas goes beyond simple cleanups; it's about fostering community pride, protecting wildlife, and raising vital awareness about the impact of litter.
This volunteer group is part of Keep Britain Tidys' RiverCare & BeachCare programme, which supports a network of fantastic volunteer groups carrying out vital work along waterways in their local area. Located in the East of England and funded by Anglian Water, our RiverCare & BeachCare volunteer groups clear litter, help manage habitats, monitor species and campaign locally.
Chalkwell Beach Team’s core aim is to remove litter, microplastics, and detritus from their beloved local beaches. This crucial work directly improves the environment and waterways for both the public and local wildlife, while simultaneously cultivating a stronger sense of community pride and increasing environmental awareness.
Chalkwell Beach TeamThis crucial work directly improves the environment and waterways for both the public and local wildlife, while simultaneously cultivating a stronger sense of community pride and increasing environmental awareness.
What makes Chalkwell Beach Team so effective is their adaptable approach to volunteering. Typically attracting five to six volunteers each week, they've seen numbers swell to ten on occasion. Their "pop in, pop out" flexibility perfectly suits the diverse commitments of their volunteers, making participation accessible and enjoyable.
Since the pandemic, there's been a noticeable shift in how people view public spaces – they're now cherished more than ever. The Chalkwell Beach Team’s impact is highly visible, leading to increased positive interactions with the public, a palpable enhancement of community spirit, and a growing awareness of the detrimental effects of litter.
Litter-picking isn't just about cleaning; it's about bringing like-minded individuals together. The team fosters positive interactions and approaches litter issues with a "can-do" attitude, always striving for solution-focused outcomes.
Their success is amplified by strong partnerships. They work hand-in-hand with partner organisations such as Surfers Against Sewage, Essex Wildlife Trust, Litterless Leigh, Suez Waste Management (their local authority contractor), and Waterwatch UK. This collaborative spirit ensures a wider reach and greater impact.
The Chalkwell Beach Team’s tireless efforts haven't gone unnoticed. The group has recently been nominated for the prestigious King's Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), a testament to their significant contributions. Shortlisted for the award, representatives are set to meet with the Lord Lieutenant and Chairman Elect of Essex County Council at a forthcoming KAVS Reception in June, with the final decision anticipated in November 2025.
Beyond this potential royal recognition, the team are highly regarded by local businesses and the wider community. With the support of the Mayor and various local councillors, this dedicated team works incredibly hard to protect our precious shared spaces.
This Volunteers’ week we applaud the incredible commitment and positive impact of our RiverCare & BeachCare volunteers. Their work is a shining example of how a passionate group can inspire change and create a cleaner, healthier, and more connected community.
*originally published 27/05/2025*