A big ‘thank you’ has gone out to Bradford people after the success of Bradford Teaching Hospitals summer equipment amnesty.

Hundreds of pairs of crutches, sticks and walking aids worth more than £3,000 were returned to the physiotherapy departments at the Bradford Royal Infirmary and St Luke’s Hospital during the summer initiative which lasted from June to August.

“This year’s amnesty was the first in a number of years and has proved so successful that we are already planning another one for next summer,” said Jill Gregson, Head of Physiotherapy.

“On behalf of the Foundation Trust, I’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who has brought back items, however big or small, as we have been able to clean and re-issue them to new patients. This all helps in keeping costs down and saves vital money which can be used elsewhere in our service.”

Bradford South Public Governor, Mike Turner, who has been part of the working group responsible for bringing about the amnesty, thanked people from across the city who had got involved.

Mike added: “The response to this year’s summer amnesty has been great as every penny helps ensure that the NHS doesn’t have to fork out needless money on equipment that people have forgotten to bring back.

“Looking to the future, I would urge patients and their family members who borrow some of our equipment to ensure that it doesn’t languish in your home. Please return it to the hospitals the next time you are passing when the time comes that you no longer need it. Make sure you keep helping us to help you and the people of Bradford.”

Plans are currently underway for a wheelchair amnesty later in the year. Bradford Wheelchair Services, on Cemetery Road, which is also part of the Foundation Trust is aiming to launch an amnesty in late autumn. More details will follow in October.