#CutItBack 2.0 Launches Today

Date posted: 11th March 2025

Overgrown foliage in urban areas forces blind and partially sighted people to step onto the road, increasing the risk of injury. This situation adversely affects confidence, independence, and the ability to travel safely, which is essential for leading full and independent lives. With an anticipated longer growing season this year, it’s more important than ever to stay proactive.

Following the engagement and feedback from last year’s successful #CutItBack campaign, we are launching Cut it Back 2.0 earlier this year and running the campaign for longer to encourage homeowners, friends, neighbours and local councils, to start considering the seasonal impact overgrown hedges and bushes have on a blind or partially sighted person’s ability to navigate independently.

Last year, Sight Loss Council (SLC) volunteers led this campaign in response to feedback from 75% of blind and partially sighted individuals who reported that overhanging branches, overgrown hedges, and vegetation pose significant obstacles and safety hazards (Listening Month, 2022).

Local councils are legally required to address reports of overgrown foliage. To encourage individuals to report these issues, SLC staff and volunteers created a range of resources, including videos, online guidance, and recommendations on the best times to trim foliage while minimising the impact on local wildlife. These resources will be used again for Cut it Back 2.0 to continue raising awareness and support.

This year, we are expanding our social media campaign to ensure it remains accessible to everyone. Soon, campaigners will be able to download social media graphics, posts, and suggested wording to share on their own profiles, helping to reach a wider audience.

As we ramp up our efforts leading into summer, we will provide templates and accessible methods for contacting local councils to report overgrown foliage. This will help raise awareness and make a significant impact.

We invite and encourage wider participation this year to ensure our streets remain safe and accessible for everyone.