Sharps can sting and are dangerous things
Spike the Sharps Snake is the last of the Streetscene Gang of animals to come to town.
Spike has a specific message about the safe disposal of needles/syringes (‘sharps’) and will only be appearing in certain places such as public conveniences, needle exchange venues and medical centres.
His message addresses a specific problem and is aimed at a particular group of people.
Cllr Phil Edwards, Cabinet Member for Environment said: “Herefordshire has its share of drug users (legal and illegal) just like every other part of the country.
“Through Streetscene we are acknowledging the problem and are trying to minimise the risk of ‘needlestick’ injuries and other health harming hazards to the public, Council officers and Herefordshire Jarvis Service operatives.
“Through partnership working with the Community Safety and Drugs Partnership and with Drugs Forums across the county we are looking at ways of encouraging the safe disposal of ‘sharps’ and offering training in handling ‘sharps’ and other drugs related materials.
“Our intent has been the same for a long time -- whilst we do not want to encourage illegal drug use, we do want to minimise the risk to users and others.”
Herefordshire Council, unlike most local councils, offers a free domestic clinical waste collection ensuring safe disposal of materials from registered premises.
The Streetscene hotline for reporting environmental issues including finding ‘sharps’ is (01432) 261800 or e mail streets@herefordshire.gov.uk Streetscene is for everyone and encourages everyone to do their ‘bit’ in keeping Herefordshire the place we all want it to be.
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