Asylum seekers are being asked to help clean the streets and parks of Italy’s northern city of Turin.
The scheme was launched by the city’s waste authority and city council and will let refugees waiting for their asylum claims to be processed the chance to work a six-hour shift each Saturday to empty bins, pick up litter and sweep leaves.
The work is on a volunteer basis, but expectations are high that the first 20 places will be filled quickly as it offers the chance to gain some experience as well as a way to help integrate.
Asylum cases in Italy can take more than a year to be decided.
“It's a useful scheme, but the most important thing is that it allows asylum seekers to give something in exchange for the support they are receiving in helping build a new life here,” deputy mayor Elide Tisi said.
“It also highlights the work we are doing throughout the city to promote an attitude of responsibility rather than welfare.”
Refugees have often shown themselves quick to pitch in. Last summer many rushed to help restore order after a tornado struck the Veneto area.
