There are lots of things you can do to help in your community in periods of severe winter weather. However, many people believe they can't clear pavements of snow without becoming liable if somebody were to slip, or think that volunteering in their community always means going through complicated vetting procedures.

The Department for Communities and Local Government has published a guide to correct some of these misconceptions and advise on how you can best help in your local community, as well as steps you can take to reduce your own risk of harm during severe winter weather.