Gas firm’s donations support care homes

Volunteers from Northern Gas Networks are making donations to various care homes across the region, including one near Sunderland.

The items from the North of England’s gas distributor were handed over to help brighten the lockdown for residents and support staff.

Washington Grange, on Burnhope Road, received a tablet device and toiletries.

The care home’s general manager, Paula Joicey, said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to the staff at Northern Gas Networks for their donation. It is much appreciated.

“The tablet that was donated will help our lovely residents to communicate with their families, which will mean a great deal to them at this time.

“The toiletries given to us will be really beneficial for my staff, especially the hand cream as regular washing is making their hands very sore and dry.” At a time when residents cannot have visits, the donations in the North East and Yorkshire are small gestures of support and goodwill. Other items handed over included sweets, water bottles, biscuits, chocolates and

flowers.Donations are left with staff or on care home doorsteps.

Since the start of the coronavirus lockdown, Northern Gas Networks has extended its volunteering programme for staff – enabling them to combine their jobs with volunteering work with local charities, or delivering donations to care homes, hospices and customers who are self-isolating or shielding.