People with mobility equipment they no longer need are being urged to return it to new, dedicated drop-off points at hospitals in Ashford, Canterbury and Margate.
This includes NHS or council-loaned equipment such as crutches, commodes, walking frames, raised toilet seats, shower chairs, free-standing toilet frames, perching stools, chair raisers, kitchen trolleys and wheeled walkers.
Andrea Reid, Therapy Lead for William Harvey Hospital in Ashford, said: “As people’s needs change, they may no longer need this equipment, so we’ve set up new drop-off points to make it easier for people to return it. This will help us help others in need of extra support to get home from hospital and be as independent as possible.”
Since the drop off points opened earlier this year, 75 items worth £1,500 have been returned to the hospitals. All equipment is assessed and thoroughly cleaned before reuse.
Drop-off points:
- Kent and Canterbury, Canterbury: Container located in the disabled parking bay just before the 1937 Building entrance.
- QEQM Hospital, Margate: Container located next to the Maternity entrance, St Peters Road.
- William Harvey Hospital, Ashford: Container located next to the Spencer Wing entrance.
Jane Miller, Kent County Council’s Adult Social Care and Health Principal Occupational Therapist, said: “It’s vitally important that we recycle any unused equipment loaned to people who no longer require it.
“Global supply chain problems can delay arrival of some new items so our recycle and reuse approach is more important now than ever. This not only means we have equipment available when we need it but also helps services save money.”
Equipment with a barcoded sticker can be also collected free of charge by calling NRS Healthcare on 01622 235300.
For wheelchairs only, please call Millbrook on 0330 124 4485 to arrange collection.