Hospital launches walking aid reuse service to support patient care and cut waste

Mid Cheshire Hospitals has opened a new walking aid reuse service which will improve access to equipment and help the environment.

Patients can now return mobility aids they no longer need to the Outpatient Physiotherapy department at Leighton Hospital.

The Trust says the initiative will ensure essential items can be given to other patients to help them walk again.

Equipment can be dropped off at the Outpatients Physiotherapy department, off the site’s yellow corridor, from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Accepted items include:

• Wheeled walking frames
• Elbow crutches
• Walking sticks
• 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.

Becky Foulkes-Doody, Physiotherapist at Mid Cheshire Hospitals, 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.”

Rhys John, Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist at Mid Cheshire Hospitals, 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’re 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, Sustainability and Social Value Lead at Mid Cheshire Hospitals, said: “Reusing walking aids helps reduce waste and carbon emissions while ensuring valuable equipment continues to support patient care. It’s a simple, practical way we’re making healthcare more sustainable.”

For information about the Walking Aid Reuse Service, visit the Outpatient Physiotherapy department at Leighton Hospital, call 01270 255141 or visit https://www.mcht.nhs.uk/walkingaid