Supporting Wick hospital through the pandemic

A Caithness charity organisation said it has continued to support the general hospital in Wick despite the issues and restrictions stemming from the Covid pandemic.

Though formal fundraising was suspended, the League of Friends of Caithness General Hospital (CGH) said it has been "working away behind the scenes" throughout 2020.

The group received many donations from individuals and families over the last nine months which ensured that ongoing work continued and culminated in the annual Christmas gift handover.

A spokesperson for the League of Friends said: "Members of the committee have endeavoured to accommodate the wish lists from various departments and wards within the hospital. As a result, many items which will enhance the care and comfort of the patients were handed over recently.

"These included folding foot rests, water dispensers, hair basins, finger SAT probes, temporal thermometers, playing cards and puzzle books."

Over the year, the League provided emergency toiletry packs on an ongoing basis for patients arriving as emergencies and also for patients being transferred to Raigmore at short notice. It was particularly beneficial to many patients when visitors were restricted.

The spokesperson continued: "As we all continue to live with the constraints of the virus, we are extremely grateful for the efforts of our dedicated NHS staff who are maintaining our vital services in difficult times.

"As always the League of Friends is happy to work alongside our professionals and complement them in a voluntary role."

The League of Friends raises funds for additional items at CGH that will benefit patients but are not readily available from normal hospital funds. It says that all money it receives is spent at the hospital in Wick and not transferred elsewhere within NHS Highland.

For more information on how to support the charity call 01955 605050.

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