I also was under the impression that Lewisham's refuse collection was done by direct labour rather than contractors.

I don't think any of us on here underestimate what a difficult and dirty job bin collection is (at least I hope not, anyway).

It's just that when, I would estimate, the average time to get up is about 7, being woken at 5.30ish is really unacceptable. I don't have kids myself but can appreciate that the interruption of precious sleep for parents must be pretty nightmarish.