RESIDENTS are being urged to return walking aids to help the trust that runs the borough's hospitals reduce waste and save money.
The Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust has launched an amnesty which it says could save it up to £60,000 a year.
A spokesman for the trust said: "Over the past year almost 8,000 walking aids were issued, costing the trust close to £60,000, and by returning unused walking aids like crutches, Zimmer frames and walking sticks you are helping us to save money and reduce waste.
"Often patients with new or temporary mobility issues such as breaks or sprains will leave the hospital with borrowed walking aids.
"These items, while useful to you at one point, may no longer be needed and could be returned to help other patients."
The amnesty will run until January 6.
Walking aids can be handed in at drop-off points across the borough from 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Friday, including at the Area 5 reception at Leigh Infirmary.
The spokesman added: "That extra money saved will go directly back into our services and facilities, which will help to support our ongoing efforts to provide the best care for our patients."
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