The Covid-19 pandemic presented, and in many ways, continues to present NHS Borders with significant challenges for both our staff and patients. Thanks to the kindness and generosity of the local community we have been able to provide a wide variety of support.
NHS CHARITIES TOGETHER GRANTS
The Difference has been a member of NHS Charites Together (formerly the Association of NHS Charities) for several years, benefitting from the guidance and shared experience that comes from a membership organisation. During the pandemic they became the focal point of much of the national fundraising that took place in support of the NHS and managed to raise over £130m!
The Difference were awarded an automatic emergency grant of £59,500 to our COVID 19 Response Fund.
For more information about NHS Charities Together click here
COVID-19 Response
Here are just some of the ways the charity used the grants and your donations to help…
staff Refuelling stations
Throughout April, 17 refuelling stations were set up around the BGH campus and 23 refuelling boxes sent to community sites providing staff with free water, fruit and snacks.
Rainbow
After an initial donation of flowers from Milestone Garden & Leisure, the rainbow display was so well received that the fund has paid for seasonal re-planting to make this a more permanent feature. It has become a much loved spot for hope, reflection and remembrance.
Sat Navs for transport hub
The COVID 19 Response Fund provided Satellite Navigation devices to the Transport Hub for their additional cars and drivers to help with the fantastic service they are providing.
Getting crafty
“Craft packs” were developed and distributed by the Local Area Coordination Team to provide a positive, meaningful activity for adults with a learning or physical disability, older adults and those with mental ill health.
virtual visiting
Sixty iPads were purchased so patients in the BGH and Community Hospitals could still see loved ones even when visiting was restricted.
Some were also used by our community teams to support patients with virtual appointments.
distanced but still social
It became more important than ever to ensure our staff could make the most of their breaks but social distancing guidelines made this increasingly difficult in their existing staff areas. Outdoor seating was provided to give staff a safe space to take their breaks.
