Photos taken by Guide Dogs staff across the country show dumped firs blocking paths, forcing walkers to step into often busy roads.
Hannah Trussler, the charity’s policy and campaigns manager, said the trees are a “real issue”.
She added: “Obstacles blocking the pavement are a nuisance and dangerous for everyone but potentially dangerous if you are a wheelchair user forced on to the road, pushing a child in a buggy or have sight loss and can’t see traffic.”
“We urge councils to ask residents, when communicating Christmas tree collection days, to be considerate about where they place trees for collection and not to cause an unintended obstruction.”
Simon Daws, who was registered visually impaired 14 years ago, campaigns for better accessibility for people with the disability.
He often encounters obstacles on pavements after the festive period. Simon, 62, from Woodbridge, Suffolk urged householders: “Think about where you dump your Christmas tree…where you put your bins out and where you park your car.”
“When I was sighted, I didn’t understand it either, but I very much do now. It’s difficult for people with buggies, wheelchairs, elderly people, and everyone else. It just highlights one’s shortcomings. You feel absolutely rubbish.” He said the fear of having to step out into a road makes him feel “very unsafe, anxious and angry”.
Guide Dogs want people to find local designated tree disposal facilities. Many local authorities arrange drop-off points or collections of trees in January, which can be checked on their websites.
Unwanted artificial trees in good condition may be accepted by charity shops for re-sale and re-use.
Hannah Trussler, Policy and Campaigns Manager at Guide Dogs, added: “We urge councils to ask residents, when communicating Christmas tree collection days, to be considerate about where they place trees for collection and not to cause an unintended obstruction on pavements.”
