Setting up a new community group

If you’re looking to carry out regular clean-ups or care for a green space with your friends or neighbours, then we’d recommend becoming a formal community group.

This will not only provide more structure and help you access the right insurance cover, but it will also open up lots of other opportunities, including funding.

We know it might seem daunting, but we’re here to guide you through the whole process – from creating a constitution and getting insured, to fundraising and getting more volunteers involved.

We have project officers based in every local authority who can provide advice to anyone looking to set up a group and work independently.

Frequently asked questions

We’ve included below some of your most common questions about starting a new community group, but if you still want more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

: Setting up a constitution isn’t as scary as it sounds – we promise!

A constitution simply outlines what you want to achieve and the rules and structure you want to follow.

It allows other people and organisations, including potential funders, to understand your aims and objectives. It is also a requirement when taking out public liability insurance and opening a bank account.

If you want to apply for grants, then you will need a group bank account. This is a type of account that is specifically for community groups and societies, rather than individuals.

It is a good idea to have more than one signatory on your account (ideally three) just in case people leave the group or go on holiday. It is also sensible to avoid credit cards and overdrafts.

Download a template constitution
: Contact your local Keep Wales Tidy project officer! We have project officers in every local authority in Wales. They’re on hand to provide all the help and support you need. Scroll down to find your local project officer.

You’ll be joining a network of other passionate and inspiring groups doing amazing work in their local areas. We’ve got a map of active groups on our website, and we’ve also set up a private Facebook group to encourage volunteers to share good news, ideas and best practice.

Request to join the Keep Wales Tidy Community on Facebook

Funders may ask to see your policy on Safeguarding or Equal Opportunities. Lots of helpful resources are freely available. A good starting point is the Knowledge Hub website.

Expert organisations are also available to help with governance queries. You can find details of your local County Voluntary Council on the Third Sector Support Wales website.
: Not at all! You can always borrow equipment for free from one of our Litter Picking Hubs.

Looking for inspiration?

Click the boxes to read the origin stories of Cyfarthfa Community Group and Keep Abergavenny Tidy. Learn about the challenges they’ve overcome and discover tips for working sustainably.

Cyfarthfa Community Group

Five volunteers walking with their back to the camera, carrying litter bags and litter picks, all wearing hi-vis vests.

Keep Abergavenny Tidy (KAT)

A group of six volunteers, outside a red building, all smiling carrying red litter bags

Speak to your local project officer

We have project officers in every local authority across Wales, and they’re here to help you whenever you need support. Scroll down to find your local project officer and get in touch.