Mid Cheshire NHS Trust launches walking aid reuse scheme

Mid Cheshire NHS Trust has opened a new walking aid reuse service allowing patients to return mobility aids they no longer need to the Outpatient Physiotherapy department at Leighton Hospital.

This equipment will be cleaned, refurbished and reissued to others in need.

Becky Foulkes-Doody, a physiotherapist at Mid Cheshire NHS Trust, said: "Walking aids are specifically designed to be durable and can serve many people over their lifetime.

"By returning them, patients who have already seen the benefits will play their part in helping others to walk again."

The new scheme accepts wheeled walking frames, elbow crutches, walking sticks and gutter frames.

The returned equipment will be assessed against a strict criteria to check it is suitable to be reissued.

Items will then be cleaned and refurbished so they can be safely reused by the patients who need them most.

Returned equipment should be taken to the Outpatient Physiotherapy department, located off the hospital’s yellow corridor.

The department is open for drop-offs from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Rhys John, a clinical specialist physiotherapist at Mid Cheshire NHS Trust, said: "The new service will mean patients get faster access to equipment as we can keep things in-house and avoid delays when receiving new walking aids.

"We are delighted to be launching this new service as part of our commitment to provide unparalleled care and to help patients enjoy life to the fullest."

James Whittall, the sustainability and social value lead for the trust, said: "Reusing walking aids helps reduce waste and carbon emissions while ensuring valuable equipment continues to support patient care.

"It is a simple, practical way we are making healthcare more sustainable."

For more information, patients can call 01270 255141 or visit the hospital website at www.mcht.nhs.uk/walkingaid/.