Do you have a walking aid collecting dust in your home? Perhaps you have a rollator or walking stick that you would like to dispose of? Whatever the case, you may be able to make use of the new NHS walking aids return and reuse scheme.
In 2022, the NHS launched a scheme to collect unused or faulty walking aids and refurbish them for reuse. Rollators, walking sticks, crutches and walking aids are all eligible and you can find your nearest collection point on our Recycling Locator or your local Trust’s website.
But why should you recycle your walking aids?
1. Recycling your walking aid can help to reduce carbon emissions
On average, reusing a refurbished walking aid is 87% lower in carbon emissions than using a new walking aid! This can make a huge difference in reducing our carbon footprint as walking aids are one of the top 20 medical devices for carbon intensity due to their aluminium or steel construction. Returns at one Trust in Essex are saving 67 tonnes per year! That's the same as 2,540 car trips from London to Bristol.
2. It saves money
Reusing refurbished walking aids is not only great for the planet, it reduces the costs of buying new. The average hospital could save £46k per year if just two out of every five aids were returned for reuse. Faulty walking aids that are beyond repair can be recycled as scrap metal, generating income for the trust.
3. It’s safe
Once a walking aid has been returned, it will be thoroughly cleaned and checked to ensure it is in good condition and safe to reuse. By returning your broken or defective walking aids and removing them from circulation, you will be helping to improve patient safety and reducing the risk of injury.
4. Walking aids are designed to last
Unlike many medical devices, walking aids do not have a use by date. They are designed to be kept in use for as long as possible and are simple to refurbish.
By making the most of return and reuse schemes, we can help make a positive impact on the environment and help the NHS resources go further.
5. Returning your walking aid is convenient
Simply check the Locator for opening times and directions to the collection point or check with your local trust. So far there are 100 NHS trusts collecting walking aids for reuse and another 44 are looking to introduce a reuse scheme in the next couple of years. Keep checking in case a drop-off location opens near you and let your local trust know you’re interested in a scheme.
By making the most of return and reuse schemes, we can help make a positive impact on the environment and help the NHS resources go further.
