Council chiefs sought to allay fears over the way clinical waste will now be collected from households in the area.

NE Derbyshire District Council sent a letter to residents telling them to put any healthcare waste in their black bin, sparking concern among some householders. One resident contacted the Derbyshire Times worried about how the changes would affect him and his disabled step-daughter who has spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Due to Joanne’s conditions, it means that they have to dispose of a large bag of clinical waste every week at their home. Previously, this was collected separately by the council.

It’s tricky for local authorities, when making some essential changes that despite attempts to inform all users some may misunderstand, through no fault of their own. In this case, the council explain that the householder would not be affected and no charges would apply, but might have further allayed fears to explain that any charges that might apply would be managed by the local CCG and not by the patient, their family or carers.