Over recent months, more and more residents have contacted me about the rise in nitrous oxide misuse across our community.
Discarded canisters are being found in parks, on pavements and in green spaces, including areas such as Court Hey Park and surrounding neighbourhoods. Parents are concerned. Dog walkers are concerned. Volunteers who give up their time to keep our community clean are concerned.
That is why I launched the Know the Risk campaign and the accompanying online petition.
This is not about blame.
It is not about targeting individuals.
It is about awareness, safety and protecting our community.
Why “Know the Risk”?
Nitrous oxide, often referred to as laughing gas, is often seen as harmless. But repeated or unsafe use can have serious health consequences, including nerve damage and long term neurological harm.
Alongside the health risks, there is also the visible impact on our neighbourhoods:
- Canisters left in parks where children play
- Hazards to pets and wildlife
- Risks to council staff and volunteers clearing litter
- Green spaces that look neglected and disrespected
Some canisters remain pressurised and can cause injury if crushed or mishandled. That should never be a risk in spaces designed for families.
What This Petition Aims To Do
The online petition is about demonstrating that residents want action.
It calls for:
- Stronger awareness and education about the risks
- Partnership working between council services, police and community organisations
- Clear action to protect our parks and public spaces
- A visible commitment to tackling this issue locally
This campaign is about prevention and responsibility. If people understand the real risks, both to their health and to the wider community, they can make informed choices.
Listening and Taking Action
This campaign began because residents asked me to act. That is what local leadership is about, listening and responding.
We all want the same thing:
Safer parks.
Cleaner streets.
A community we are proud of.
If you support the Know the Risk campaign, I encourage you to sign and share the online petition. The more voices we have, the stronger the message.
Together, we can protect our community and make sure Roby remains a place where families feel safe.
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