Wheel-y generous! League of Friends purchases new wheelchairs for St Helier
St Helier Hospital has taken delivery of 10 brand new, easy to use wheelchairs thanks to an £8,500 donation from the hospital’s League of Friends.
The new wheelchairs, located in the main reception, are available for visitors with limited mobility who need a friend or relative to help them get around the hospital. Chairman of The League of Friends for St Helier Hospital Val Brundle explained: “Our aim is to support the hospital by raising money to purchase equipment and fund projects that help improve the experience of patients.
“We know that some people who visit the hospital, whether that be for an appointment or to visit a loved one on one of the wards, have limited mobility and find getting around more difficult. By providing these additional wheelchairs we hope to help make their visit as straightforward and comfortable as possible.”
Officially founded in 1951, the League of Friends is a much valued part of life at St Helier Hospital, raising funds and – through a dedicated team of volunteers – running a range of services for patients, visitors and staff. The League works closely with the trust to identify key projects and areas that will benefit most from their extra support. Val explained: “One of our committee members, Roy Burkmar, has recently taken on the new role of Trust Liaison Officer – a key role in ensuring that the League and the trust continue to work together as closely as possible.
“It was through this role, and his involvement in the trust’s Patient First programme, that Roy became aware that the old wheelchairs we purchased some time ago were proving a little difficult for some people to use, and that they would benefit from being updated.
“We are delighted with the new wheelchairs, and are already receiving positive feedback about how easy they are to use.”
Dr Ruth Charlton, Deputy Chief Executive and Joint Medical Director, said: “We are incredibly grateful for all of the support we receive from The League of Friends for St Helier Hospital, and the generosity they have shown towards the hospital and our patients over so many years.
“The new wheelchairs are already making a difference, helping to make life a little easier for some of our visitors with more limited mobility. I’d like to thank Val, Roy and the League of Friends for this wonderful donation.”
The League of Friends is always keen to hear from people who would like to get involved, either through becoming a member, volunteering or making a donation. For more information about the League, you can visit www.epsom-sthelier.nhs.uk/the-league-of-friends-for-st-helier.
