FixMyStreet

FixMyStreet was built by mySociety, the website that likes to encourage civic cooperation and thereby remind us all that we live with others.

This is an incredibly simple idea. If there's a ‘physical problem' such as fly tipping, graffiti or broken street lighting near where you live, log on to this site and you might be able to get it sorted out. Enter the postcode, street name or area, locate the specific area on the map and report the problem. (You can even attach a photo.) Your message will then be forwarded to the relevant authority at your local council. It is very easy to use and makes the process of getting in touch with your local authority so much easier than it would be if you picked up the phone.

There are updates on the site about the number of recently reported problems and how many have been dealt with. There is also a summary of all the reports on the site so you can see which areas of the country have either a: the most problems or b: the most concerned residents.

So, the next time you stumble over some broken glass in the middle of your street, don't sit at home and fulminate in time-honoured British fashion, just ask FixMyStreet to give you a helping hand.