Health bosses say a big thanks to their friends
Hospital bosses have thanked supporters for a magnificent £35,000 donation to help patients on the road to recovery.
The cash, from The League of Friends at South Tyneside District Hospital, will give nurses and other health professionals such as physiotherapists the use of seven, new, powered, standing and raising aids to help them in efficiently moving and mobilising patients.
The equipment, which also provides patients with balance, stepping and walking training, will be available on wards throughout the hospital, including those caring for older people.
Steve Jamieson, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust’s director of estates and facilities, said: “The League of Friends raises tens of thousands of pounds each year to provide local patients and staff with extra comforts and equipment, for which we’re very grateful. We’re absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity of this latest donation.”
Medical devices co-ordinator Clare Williams said:
“An key part of the recovery process is physical rehabilitation, with an emphasis on patients regaining and maintaining as much independence as possible.
“With a growing, ageing population, we envisage an increase in the number of patients who will require physical rehabilitation and it is very beneficial to have a range of equipment available. These latest additions will be invaluable.”
League of Friends’ Chair Josie Wigham said: “We have had such an enthusiastic response from staff who say how beneficial the equipment is for patients and how makes their job easier so we are delighted to have been able to provide it.”