Snow wardens are volunteers who play an active role in their community when the weather takes a turn for the worst.

They help clear pavements and pathways of snow and ice in their local area. This will not only help your neighbours but also our more vulnerable residents who can't help themselves.

How much time you put in is up to you - all we ask is that you do as much as you can. Snow warden duties are seasonal and at times you will need to be reactive to the weather conditions.

Which area you cover is up to you too. You can carry out your Snow Warden duties on your own street, housing estate or local area.

Guidance and support

When signing up to become a snow warden we will contact you first of all to go through the role in more detail and provide any necessary training and answer any questions you may have.  

To support you in your role we will provide you with:

  • a high visibility vest
  • gloves
  • a snow shovel and
  • rock salt (which you will be required to store at your home).

During the winter months we will notify you regularly when we anticipate snow or freezing conditions so that you can be prepared.

Volunteers will be given guidance on how to clear snow and ice safely.

Insurance cover

Whilst acting on behalf of the Council in this role, snow wardens will be covered as a volunteer under the Council's insurance policies. 

Volunteers will also be asked to confirm they are 'fit to participate', where they agree that they are fit and able to perform the duties of a snow warden.

Last updated : 19 July 2024

If you want to express your interest in becoming a snow warden or would like us to provide you with more information, please complete our online form:

Snow warden application and equipment request form

Existing snow wardens

If you are an existing snow warden and you need to replace any equipment, including ordering grit salt, please complete the online form above.

Last updated : 30 September 2024

The health and safety of our volunteers is of the utmost importance to us, at all times. When carrying out the role of a snow warden it is important you read and understood our safety guidelines below.

Clearing footpaths of snow and ice:

  • always wear your high visibility vest when out and about so people can clearly see you
  • wear warm clothing and sensible footwear that will provide a good grip
  • ensure someone is aware that you have gone out to carry out this work, telling them where you expect to be and a time that you expect to finish
  • take a working and charged mobile phone with you if possible so you are contactable in case of an emergency.
  • assess the footpaths before commencing any work.  Do not attempt to work if you feel conditions would make this unsafe - for example if visibility is poor
  • try to clear snow early in the day if you can - it's easier to move when it is fresh and loose and visibility is much better too
  • don't use water - it might refreeze and turn to black ice
  • remove as much snow as possible using your snow shovel, before spreading the salt onto footpaths, this will prevent it from refreezing overnight.

Last updated : 30 September 2024