Discarded Syringes and Needles

Needles, syringes and other drug related items are being increasingly discarded in the environment. There are a number of hazards associated with handling these items and if discovered you should contact us to have them safely removed and disposed of.

If you find a discarded needle or syringe that you feel needs to be removed immediately you should follow these guidelines:

• If possible pick it up wearing heavy duty gloves or use tweezers or tongs, otherwise pick it up by the barrel end only and never touch the sharp end;
• Place it carefully in a hard plastic bottle (not a glass bottle) and screw the lid on tight. Do not wrap a syringe or needle in a plastic or paper bag;
• Contact us to arrange for the collection of the container;
• Never throw the syringe or container down the toilet or place them in a waste bin or recycling box.

If a needle or syringe is found discarded in a park or open space and it cannot be removed safely, ring the Council as soon as possible and we will come out and remove it as a matter of priority.

When you phone, describe exactly where the needle or syringe can be located and provide your contact details so that if our cleansing team member cannot find the item, we can call you to confirm the location.

To report a discarded needle or syringe please call 01562 732928 or use our online form