Gloucestershire County Council has unveiled a new fleet of ten electric vehicles to support the Gloucestershire Equipment Loan Service (GELS), which provides vital equipment to help adults with care and support needs live safely at home.
The new eco-friendly vans will make it easier for residents to return borrowed items while helping the council meet its net zero targets and cut costs. Their design also promotes awareness of GELS, reminding people that unused equipment can be collected free of charge.
GELS loans out equipment such as hospital beds, wheelchairs, crutches and perching stools to people recovering after hospital visits or those needing help to remain independent. Items are lent free of charge for as long as they are needed. Returned equipment is cleaned, refurbished and reissued, with anything damaged beyond repair recycled.
Each month, residents return equipment worth around £500,000, but the council believes many more items remain unused in people’s homes.
Cllr Dr Kate Usmar, cabinet member for adults’ support and independence, said:
“It is really easy to return equipment you no longer need. There are loads of drop-off points across the county, including libraries and council offices, or GELS can collect from your home. By returning things you’re not using, you’re helping others to stay as independent as possible, for as long as possible.”
Residents are reminded not to buy or sell community equipment through social media or charity shops, as it is always available for free from GELS.
Drop-off points are available at GELS’ Hempsted and Mitcheldean depots, libraries across the county, and council offices in Gloucester, Stroud, Cirencester and Cinderford.
Free collections can also be arranged by calling 01452 520438 or via the council website at www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/return-equipment.