Islanders are being given the chance to declutter their homes and help others in the community with a community equipment return amnesty.
The Isle of Wight Council and Isle of Wight NHS Trust are asking residents to return unused crutches, wheelchairs or walking frames to help others in need.
The new amnesty is a way to return borrowed items to the community equipment store, ensuring is can be cleaned, refurbished and loaned to residents who desperately require it.
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for adult social care and housing, said: “Many households unknowingly hold onto valuable equipment that could make a life-changing difference for someone else.
“This amnesty encourages residents to clear out their storage spaces and contribute to a sustainable cycle of lending and reuse.”
Why return community equipment?
- Give back to the community: Your used equipment can help individuals recovering from surgery, injuries, or chronic conditions regain independence and dignity.
- Reduce waste and save money: Reusing equipment is kinder to the environment and frees up much needed resources for providing new equipment or other vital support services.
- Declutter your home: Let go of unused items and make space for what truly matters.
What equipment can be returned?
A wide variety of equipment, including:
- walking frames or sticks;
- crutches;
- bath lifts;
- shower seats, commodes, and toilet surrounds;
- hospital beds, hoists and bed transfer aids;
- furniture raisers.
How to return equipment:
Anyone with equipment which is no longer needed is invited to drop them into the community equipment store at 19 Barry Way, Newport, PO30 5GY. The store is open Monday to Friday, 9am until 3.30pm.
Councillor Andre added: “Together, we can make a positive impact by ensuring that our increasingly limited resources are put to good use. Join us in this worthwhile initiative and give the gift of independence to someone who really needs it.”
