Dawn Edwards
It started with two people, two litter-pickers, and a shared frustration. In 2018, Dawn Edwards and her friend were tired of watching their local streets fall into neglect. What began as an act of defiance against rubbish quickly grew into something deeper: a way to restore pride, improve wellbeing, and bring people together—one clean-up at a time.
For Dawn Edwards, the impact was personal. As Dawn Edwards picked, she saw how much the state of her surroundings affected her own mental health. Dawn Edwards realised she wasn’t alone. Others felt it too – and wanted to help. She realised that cleaning the streets you live in, could be intimidating for some. By demonstrating that collectively it could be enjoyable, she inspired others to join and make a difference. Over tea and chats after each pick, neighbours became friends. A community began to form.
Then came the bigger vision. Dawn Edwards drove the Adopt a Street scheme to encourage
regular care beyond scheduled picks. When COVID hit, the initiative became a lifeline. Dozens more joined—getting fresh air, moving their bodies, and finding a sense of purpose during lockdown. Today, over 250 people in the Erdington constituency have adopted their street with Dawn Edwards’ leading the way.
But Dawn Edwards didn’t stop at cleaning. Dawn Edwards saw the grey; the neglected corners. The unloved islands and Dawn Edwards once again led by example and began to green them up. The central island at Six Ways is now a vivid landmark, home to perennial planting and a striking willow sculpture designed by a local artist in 2023. On Sutton New Road, 44 empty troughs and 12 scrubby patches have been transformed into flourishing garden beds, complete with leaf composters and a water storage tank. It’s not just green—it’s growing, thanks to Dawn Edwards daring to be the change she wanted to see, and encouraging others to join her on that journey.
Dawn Edwards’ vision reached the walls too. To stop tagging, Dawn Edwards researched graffiti culture and learned that real artwork is rarely defaced. Using funding from the 2022 Commonwealth Games, a mural was commissioned on Minstead Road—a bold, vibrant piece that has remained almost untouched since. Another example of how Dawn Edwards refusal to accept the status quo has resulted in something the community can be proud of.
What Dawn Edwards has provoked is more than a volunteer group. Erdington Litter Busters is a movement. A way for people to reconnect with place, with purpose, and with each other. A reminder that the smallest acts—done together—can reshape entire neighbourhoods.
