Nappy days are here again

NEW mums are being encouraged to help make Oldham more eco friendly by ditching the disposables and opting for real nappies.

The council will run a month-long series of events to promote real nappies and offer a free trial to parents.

It is estimated that one million tonnes of disposable nappies are thrown away every year in the UK — equivalent to eight million nappies a day with each taking up to 500 years to decompose.

Promoters of real nappies say they are better for the environment, easier on the pocket and have come a long way since the old-style terry version.

Real nappies are now made from cotton, or soft breathable fabrics which it is claimed are better for the skin and pins have been changed for poppers or velcro.

Councillor Mark Alcock, cabinet member for environment and infrastructure said: “As well as now being easy to use and having a significant and positive impact on the environment, real nappies also have the potential to save families hundreds of pounds when compared with disposable nappies.”

The council is offering a free one-month trial with a nappy laundry service or a two-week trial using a home laundry kit.

If, after the trial period, families decide to buy their own real nappies they are eligible to apply for a £30 voucher to help with the cost.

For more information call Contact Oldham on 0161-770 6644 or email recycle@oldham.gov.uk

Events will take place across the borough on the following days:

Tomorrow (10am-3pm) behind the old Woolworths.

Monday (9am-12pm) at Stanley Road Children’s Centre, Derby Street, Chadderton.

Wednesday (9.30-11.30am) at Play Session, Stockbrook Children’s Centre, St Lukes School, Chadderton, and (1-2.30pm) at Jellybabies, Lyndhurst Primary Road, Heron Street

September 24 (10-11am) at Under 5s Storytime, Royton Library and (1- 2.30pm) at Bumps, Babies and Beyond, Limehurst Library.

September 25 (2-3pm) at Under 5s Storytime and Craft, Greenfield Library.

October 5 (1-3pm) at Shaw and Crompton Children’s Centre, High Street, Shaw.

October 6 (10am-3pm) at Baby Day Launch, Oldham Central Library.