As we bid farewell to 2023, we take time to reflect on the challenges and triumphs we’ve faced throughout the year. Undoubtedly, the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has hit families hard, with staple groceries one-fifth pricier on average, and the cost of leading single-use nappies going up by 30% since the start of 2023. Our commitment to supporting families in making healthier and more sustainable choices has never been stronger.
Voucher Scheme Update
In 2023, we welcomed the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames to our voucher scheme bringing the total number of voucher-participating boroughs to eleven: Barnet, Bexley, Camden, Enfield, Hackney, Haringey, Islington, Lambeth, Waltham Forest and the City of Westminster. During Reusable Nappy Week (24th – 30th April 2023), we proudly announced a voucher increase up to £70, aimed at further supporting families in reducing single-use nappy waste and saving money.
The impact of this change has been evident; from 1st April to 20th December 2023, we issued a total of 1,053 vouchers, marking a 24% increase compared to the previous year when 849 vouchers were issued. Of the 1,053 vouchers, 585 have already been redeemed (each voucher lasting 6 months from its issue date). The top-performing boroughs include Waltham Forest, Hackney, and Haringey.
Outreach Events and Give & Takes
Throughout the year, we maintained an active presence by hosting 95 outreach events comprising of 14 online and 81 in-person activities. These events featured reusable nappy demonstrations, information stalls, pop-up shops, eco-library tours, and talks at antenatal classes and baby groups across the participating London Boroughs. Notably, 21 of the 81 in-person events were give & takes, providing families with the opportunity to exchange good quality second-hand reusable nappies, baby clothes, and maternity wear for free!
During Reusable Nappy Week, we engaged in various informative events and meet ups, offering valuable tips on how families can save money while washing reusable nappies. Adding a touch of excitement, we also held a fun prize draw asking, “What inspired you to use reusable nappies?” Two winners received a bundle of reusable nappies and reusable wet wipes.
We’d like to thank everyone who attended these events, as well as our project supporters and volunteers who hosted and championed our reusable nappy events throughout the year.
Personal Milestones and Transitions
Amidst our project achievements, we also celebrated personal milestones, with former staff members Jenny Weeks and Brynja Herbertsdottir welcoming new additions to their families. We were delighted to see their little ones in reusable nappies! Real Nappies for London also welcomed Alice Stevens in July 2023 as the new project assistant, adding fresh energy to the project and the Women’s Environmental Network (Wen) as a whole.
Farewell to Pioneering Brands
While 2023 brought successes, it has been a challenging year for the industry with the closure of Tots Bots, Close Parent, and Baba + Boo. These pioneering British brands, which contributed significantly to sustainable parenting, will be dearly missed. We extend a heartfelt thanks to the visionary founders and dedicated staff who collaborated with us and Local Authorities to help countless families get started with reusable nappies. Their legacy lives on in the sustainable choices made by families and the positive impact they’ve had on our community. As customers, your choice of nappy makes a difference to reducing waste and saving money. Keep on supporting and spreading the word of reusable nappies and eco-friendly baby businesses.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead to 2024
As we wrap up 2023, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who played a role in our successes throughout the year. This includes everyone who claimed and redeemed a voucher, retailers, manufacturers, nappy laundry services, nappy libraries/networks, health professionals, children’s centres/nurseries, libraries, community organisations, volunteers, and, of course our local authority funders, waste authorities and colleagues at Wen. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in driving positive change, and we thank you.
Looking forward to 2024, we invite you to continue being part of our journey:
- Voucher scheme: please keep spreading the word about our voucher scheme and encourage others to take advantage of this valuable opportunity. Let them know that sustainable choices are within reach, and by participating, they contribute to a healthier and more sustainable London.
- Volunteer opportunities: We’re always on the lookout for enthusiastic individuals who share our passion for reusable nappies. If you’re eager to make a difference, consider volunteering to help us spread awareness and knowledge about the benefits of reusable nappies. Your help will inspire others! Get in touch info@realnappiesforlondon.org.uk or 020 3150 2023.
- Save the date: Reusable Nappy Week 22nd – 28th April 2024.
Together, let’s make 2024 a year of positive change, one nappy at a time.
Happy Holiday’s and Happy New Year!
Warm wishes,
Alice Walker & Alice Stevens
December 2023