Sustainable health to be showcased in Blackpool libraries

Free drop-in events promoting eco-friendly ways to stay healthy are coming to Blackpool libraries this August.

Blackpool Council, in partnership with United Utilities and Better Start Blackpool, will host events at Langdale, Layton, Central and Revoe libraries.

The events will feature free product giveaways and expert advice on dental health and early years care. Representatives from United Utilities will also be on hand to raise awareness about what should not be flushed or poured down household drains — helping to prevent blockages and flooding in the community.

Better Start Blackpool’s Community Connectors will distribute eco-friendly dental care items, including wooden toothbrushes and plastic-free floss. United Utilities will supply free reusable and disposable period products provided by Hey Girls, a social enterprise tackling period poverty.

United Utilities will also be demonstrating the consequences of flushing unsuitable products with their interactive 'wet wipe experiment' and fatberg showcase. Everyday offenders like wet wipes, cotton pads, nappies, and period products (including plastic applicators), as well as leftover cooking oils can cause major blockages and sewer flooding.

Cllr Jane Hugo, Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change, said: “This is a brilliant opportunity to get tips on how we can be healthy and how we can help to keep our environment healthy too. Residents will be able to get dental health and early years advice, while also learning about sustainable products and the positive impact they can have.

“I’m especially grateful to United Utilities for raising awareness of what not to flush. In a coastal town like ours, it’s vital we do everything we can to avoid drain blockages and prevent sewer flooding.”

Andy Peet, Wastewater Network Protection Manager at United Utilities, said: “We’ll be reminding people that only the three Ps – Pee, Poo and Paper should be flushed down the loo.

“It can be confusing, especially when some wet wipes are labelled as biodegradable. But none of these disintegrate like toilet paper does.

“Blockages can also build up when cooking oils are washed down the drain – over time this congeals and gets bigger until the pipe is blocked and nothing can pass through it. When that happens, it can cause flooding in customers’ homes, local communities or out in the environment.”

The Sustainable Health Events will take place at the following locations:

·       Langdale Library: Friday 1 August, 10.00am to 4.30pm

·       Layton Library: Wednesday 6 August, 10.00am to 4.30pm

·       Central Library: Friday 8 August, 10.00am to 4.30pm

·       Revoe Library: Monday 11 August, 10.00am to 4.30pm