Since its launch in August this year, the initiative has resulted in an 80% decrease in the use of single-use items.
Following meetings with staff and service users, a plan was developed to enhance sustainability efforts in line with Cygnet’s R-World Co-Sustain programme. Co-Sustain empowers service users and staff to take sustainability into their own hands, using the principles of coproduction to raise awareness and educate individuals on meaningful changes they can make to have a positive impact on the environment.
Colleagues at the service realised that actions to reduce waste aligned well with plans to promote service user independence and the project gained momentum.
Staff worked with Sustainable Advantage, their waste management provider, who offered valuable advice, recommendations and support. As a result, the frequency of waste collections has been reduced, food recycling has been introduced, and Sustainable Advantage has given positive feedback on the service’s recycling commitment.
Cygnet Lodge Kenton’s Action Plan:
- Reusable cups and plates: Reusable cups, mugs, plates, and bowls were introduced to the kitchenette. The items were from an “unbreakable” plastic range with a colour scheme selected by the service users.
- Breakfast bar: Cereal dispensers were introduced along the ‘toast station’, to reduce the use of single-serve packaging and enable self-catering breakfasts.
- Help yourself cupboard: A range of healthy snacks are available in the dining room too alongside the reusable crockery in what has been named the “help yourself” cupboard.
- Posters: To reinforce positive messaging and boost awareness, posters have been designed with the aim of empowering service users towards greater independence.
- Food waste bins: A food waste bin has been installed to support the recycling initiative.
- Clinical waste collections: As a result of a reduction in clinical waste, the frequency of clinical waste collections has been reduced from fortnightly to monthly.
Emily Courtier, Manager at Cygnet Lodge Kenton, said: “When I arrived at Kenton, I noticed the extensive use of single-use and disposable items. The storage of these posed a problem at our small site, alongside the environmental impact.
“Through a series of meetings with staff and service users, we sourced alternative products that are safe and durable, and worked collaboratively to create engaging posters.
“It has been a pleasure to see the staff and service users coming together to find solutions that work better for them and empower them to be more independent, while also considering their environmental impact.”
Service users have responded positively to the initiative, commenting:
“I don’t know if you realise how much it can ruin your day when you’re an early riser and you just want to get your cup of tea and go back to bed, and you have to ask someone to get more spoons or cups. It’s much better now.”
“I really like the colours; they’re so fun. I love the pink mugs most, they’re so cute!”
“We put too much in the bin, it wasn’t good. We have to look after the planet, you know.”
“I used to feel bad asking staff for a cup especially if they were busy; it’s much easier now.”
Cygnet Lodge Kenton, in North-West London, is a high support inpatient rehabilitation (level 2) service that provides a care pathway for women who are preparing to step down and help bridge the gap between hospital stays and community living.